A weekend getaway in the UK

The Margate Shell Grotto has the most peculiar discovery story. In 1835, a labourer was digging in a field outside the seaside town of Margate. His work was interrupted when his shovel simply vanished into the ground after he struck the spot under which the Shell Grotto lay. A young boy was lowered apprehensively into the hole, and he reappeared after a while with a tale of an enchanting temple decorated with millions of shells. Today, the Shell Grotto is known to be adorned with 4.6 million shells, and its origins are still a mystery. Discover the wondrous contents of the winding underground passageway and marvel at the 2000 square feet of mosaics created from mussel, cockle, whelk and oyster shells — an extraordinary, thought-provoking sight. Plan your trip to the Margate Shell Grotto and book your accommodation in none other than one of Belvilla's lovely holiday cottages. With over 40,000 holiday homes scattered over Europe, Belvilla is well-versed in providing its customers with only the most comfortable and luxurious experiences.

Visit Kents Cavern — a cave system in Torquay, Devon, England and one of the most important prehistoric Stone Age sites in Europe. Take a step back into ancient history to when this cave was home to humans, no different from you and I. Kents Cavern acted as a sturdy shelter from extreme weather and a place where humans could make fires, sharpen tools and even store their spoils after hunting the Ice Age animals. Wander through the extensive maze of caverns, surrounded by 400 million-year-old rocks and weathered stalagmites and stalactites. Opt for a guided tour around the cavern which begins in the Vestibule Chamber, and get the chance to see examples of the earliest tools ever found in Britain along with bones and teeth of prehistoric Ice Age animals. The most memorable getaways are often coupled with comfortable and relaxing accommodations — exactly what Belvilla offers its guests. Browse through our wide range of locations and select a beautiful Belvilla holiday cottage near Kents Cavern for the best weekend getaway experience.

Glenshee, also known as the Gaelic 'Glen of the Fairies' offers one of the most enchanting and magical skiing and snowboarding experiences in Scotland. It's the largest ski resort in the UK, covering more than 2,000 acres and extending across four towering mountains — it most definitely warrants a visit. For ski enthusiasts, this is the place to be on your weekend getaway in the UK. Well-versed skiers will certainly enjoy the longest 2km single run, Glas Maol, while beginners and novices can practice their skiing and snowboarding abilities on the nursery slopes next to the car park. And there's a buzzing cafe nearby if you'd just like to relax, take in the white, pristine, and pillowy mountains, and sip some well-earned hot drinks. And to ensure your weekend getaway to Glenshee is a smooth experience, book your stay in a nearby Belvilla holiday cottage. Browse through a wide selection of affordable holiday homes available in the area, and select an accommodation according to your budget and liking.

Far from just any ordinary aquarium, the National Marine Aquarium in Plymouth is the UK's largest, built for a great cause and dedicated to connecting people with the ocean. Allow yourself to reconnect with the wonders of our planet on your weekend getaway and marvel at the sights of the underwater world. Explore the world's oceans, from the shores of Plymouth to the tropics of Australia, and learn about the various aquarium zones, the ocean discovery ranger team, the animal husbandry care team and exciting conservation and research projects. With over 4,000 animals, a trip to the National Marine Aquarium is definitely worth it and even more so if you have little ones. Enjoy exciting and immersive ocean-themed events that take place every single month, and the best part of all, 100% of the proceeds go towards the Ocean Conservation Trust. Enjoy a lovely weekend out with your loved ones and give back to the environment — all in one. Plan your trip to the National Marine Aquarium and book your accommodation in none other than one of Belvilla's lovely holiday cottages. With over 40,000 holiday homes scattered over Europe, Belvilla is well-versed in providing its customers with only the most comfortable and luxurious experiences.