Six of the best UK bank holiday breaks

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Best for: culture
Spring Fling, Scotland

The rugged Scottish county of Dumfries and Galloway isn't high on the tourist radar, but the inspiring landscapes have attracted a wealth of artists. For one weekend each year, the 80 or so local artists and craftsmen open up their studios to the public as part of the Spring Fling event held over the May Bank Holiday (23-25 May). The best way to explore the area is on foot or bike, heading down the small lanes to discover private studios harbouring cultural delights. As well as seeing the paintings and sculptures on display, visitors can also take part in workshops and dine on some delicious home-made cakes.

Best for: relaxation
Ayush Wellness Spa, Jersey

Take a break from the rat race and gain a new perspective on life on a relaxing holistic break. At the first ‘destination Ayurveda spa' in the British Isles, Ayush follows 5,000-year-old Sanskrit philosophies to restore health and aid in complete relaxation. Situated in the Hotel de France in St Helier, Jersey, the sprawling rooftop spa has six private treatment suites, relaxation lounge, yoga studios and a library, perfect for pampering both body and mind. Two- and three-day packages are available, such as the Pure Cleanse and Restorative programmes, each designed to detoxify and rejuvenate. Each programme includes massages and an Ayuervedic treatment as well as full use of the spa facilities, which includes a stunning rooftop infinity pool, massage pool, hot and cold plunge pools and sauna. Breaks start at £175 per person.

Best for: city breaks
NewcastleGateshead, UK

Sat on opposite sides of the River Tyne, Newcastle and Gateshead have been transformed into a unique tourist destination known aptly as NewcastleGateshead. Far more than just another northern conurbation, NewcastleGateshead is vibrant and energetic with a rich history that seems to be etched onto every street corner. Whilst the modern day city beats with a young-spirited verve, the region has a rich history stretching back 2,000 years. Art has been a major factor in the area's regeneration and Anthony Gormley's iconic Angel of the North has become part of the area's modern identity. The region reborn, it has regained its confident swagger to become the crowning jewel of the northeast. Boasting excellent galleries, stunning architecture, great nightlife and friendly locals, NewcastleGateshead is establishing itself as one of the UK's must-visit destinations.

Best for: romance
Tor Cottage, Devon

Take the one you love to a rural hideaway for a long weekend. Tor Cottage is set within a sprawling estate near Chillaton, nestled in its own private valley, and is ideally located near Dartmoor for long blustery walks. All rooms come with snug log fires and a complimentary bottle of Cava and Moorish chocolate truffles. Order a ‘picnic platter' or breakfast hamper of brioche, croissants, orange juice, wild salmon, eggs, cheese and cold meats and dine al fresco amid wild flowers and ancient woodlands. Guests can even go for a moonlight swim in the outdoor heated pool. Double rooms cost from £130 with a minimum two-night stay required.

Best for: kids
Feather Down Farms, across the UK

Working farms are a constant source of entertainment for children as well as a chance for them to learn more about nature, animals and the great outdoors. There are more than 20 sites dotted throughout the UK with each farm housing several tents. However, banish any ideas of cramped and damp accommodation. The Feather Down tents are more like a house, with kitchen, master bedroom, bunk room and flushing toilet. Each of the working farms involved are passionate about preserving the countryside. Children will enjoy gathering fresh eggs from the hen house and getting to know the animals in the paddock area. Each site also has bike rental for exploring the surrounding countryside.

Best for: adventure
Nae Limits, Perthshire

For a long weekend of adventure, you can't go wrong with Scotland. The weather may not be very predictable, but rolling mists, pea-soup fogs and torrential rain are an occupational hazard for any country with mountains, lochs, coastline, forests and thousands of acres of open countryside to get mucky in. Anyway, Scotland has its fair share of good weather too - the east coast has more hours of sunshine than southeast England.

Nae Limits, conveniently based in Perthsire, prides itself on having perfected the ‘Art of Adventure' and offers a huge variety of activities, both on land and in water. You can choose from cliff jumping, canyoning, abseiling, quad biking and adventure tubing, to name a few, or do a multi-activity day to get a taste of everything. They can also offer help and advice with accommodation, transport and, if you've got the energy, any further entertainment. Nae Limits still has availability on a number of its Easter activities, including rafting, canyoning and sphereing.