A 1,600-mile road trip across Britain has uncovered the evolving heritage of holiday traditions in destinations from Sussex to Scotland's Highlands. From Snowdonia's Eryri to the Lake District, Lancashire, and Yorkshire, this two-week solo journey delved into four centuries' worth of historical significance.
The trip aimed to research the historical roots of leisure travel, particularly in Britain's northern regions. Visits to lesser-known locations like Conwy coast, Lancashire countryside, Blackpool, Morecambe, and Scarborough highlighted just how much of the country's rich heritage remains unexplored beyond well-trodden paths.
At Eryri's Royal Oak hotel in Betws-y-Coed – a 19th-century hub for artists like JMW Turner – manager Katie Valentine revealed an early example of what could be termed 'overtourism'. The influx of tourists following the 1868 opening of nearby Betws railway station prompted artists to relocate further up the valley, foreshadowing modern-day challenges.
Llandudno's remarkably preserved Victorian resort presented a standout feature along the route. Judith Phillips, a trustee at the Llandudno Museum, highlighted the Mostyn family's enduring influence on the town's appearance and businesses, contributing to its distinctive 'theme park' atmosphere.
The journey also underscored the vital role of local museums and archives in safeguarding Britain's social history. Visits included the Armitt Library in Ambleside and Blackburn Museum, where volunteers shared stories of 'Wakes Week' holidays – a glimpse into industrial-era leisure.
Blackpool, meanwhile, offered a stark contrast of vibrant promenade life and underlying deprivation, described by local B&B co-owner Claire Smith as a 'town of extremes'. Historical sites like Blair Castle, where Queen Victoria's handwritten letters were viewed, also provided a poignant reminder of Britain's changing holiday habits.
The road trip left behind a fascinating trail of cultural and historical markers, painting a picture of a nation whose leisure habits have continuously adapted and evolved over the centuries. From artists seeking inspiration to factory workers enjoying seaside lights, this journey captured the essence of a dynamic and ever-changing British holiday heritage.