THE sun is literally setting on summertime hours in the UK, but there are still a few days to make the most of it.
This weekend marks the very last 6PM sunset – and even better news there will be highs of 18C – so here is where Sun Travel suggests you spend it.
It’s the very last of 6pm sunsets this weekend[/caption]
Sophie suggests heading down to the coast for a sunset walk[/caption]
Take a Hike in the South West
Assistant Travel Editor Sophie Swietochowski said: “The South West Coast Path, a jaw-dropping 630-mile cliffside walking trail (one of the most scenic in the country), is magical at any time of year, but I feel it’s even more special right now.
“The season is changing and with it the trees are too, making the scenery even more spectacular.
“I couldn’t think of a better way to soak up summer’s swansong than with a coastal hike along craggy hills, watching the sun set over a frothing ocean.
“Which section of the coastal path would I choose? Well that’s a hard question. I was in Dorset this weekend and I must say, it’s hard to beat the hilly 3 km trek from Lulworth Cove to Durdle Door where you can gaze out towards chalky cliffs tumbling into an angry ocean.
“The sun dipping behind the clouds next to the mighty limestone structure that is Durdle Door, is something you simply can’t capture in a picture (although I did try).”
Hotel Hideaway
Deputy Travel Editor Kara Godfrey added: “You can’t beat a skyline view, and one of my favourites is from an affordable hotel in Manchester.
“Some of the rooms at Moxy hotel have some amazing floor to ceiling windows overlooking the city.
“You get a free cocktail on arrival, so time your check in so you can head to your room, drink in hand to watch the sun go down.”
Visit the Beach
Head of Sun Travel Lisa Minot said: “With unobstructed views from the Merseyside coastline across the Irish Sea, the undulating sand dunes of Formby Beach are a perfect place for a sunset stroll.
“With the golden light casting long shadows across the dunes, there’s plenty to please the eye and with such a vast expanse to explore, you’re guaranteed a peaceful spot even on popular evenings.”
Lisa suggests a trip to Formby Beach for the weekend[/caption]
Alice says get yourself on top of a bus for a city tour[/caption]
Lisa continued: “As the tide recedes, pools of water are illuminated by the setting sun, adding another layer of drama to the scene.
“The adjoining pine woods, home to red squirrels, are also great for a lazy stroll as the setting sun filters through the trees.”
Bus Tour
Travel Reporter Alice Penwill suggested seeing cities in a different light. “If you hop onto a tour bus, you can see the city sights with a gorgeous sunset backdrop.
“I boarded London‘s Tootbus Bar Bus earlier this year and it makes for beautiful views across the city – particularly when you reach Tower Bridge.
“It’s called ‘the most original rooftop terrace of London’ because you get drinks and sweet treats along the way. If it gets chilly there are blankets too, not that you’ll need them this weekend.
“It’s not just London either, if you hop on an open top bus tour around the likes of Edinburgh, Liverpool and York for brilliant views.”
Hope Cove is great for exploring, not to mention wonderful views[/caption]
Down to Dorset
Head of Sun Travel Lisa Minot said: “Set on the west-facing coastline of South Devon, Hope Cove is a sure-fire winner for a sunset, offering unobstructed views of the horizon.
“Its two main beaches, Inner Hope and Outer Hope are the perfect place to pop yourself down to enjoy the spectacle with panoramic views across Bigbury Bay.
“And the rugged cliffs of Bolt Tail that abut the sands means there’s even more colourful contrasts as the sun turns the beach golden, shimmers in the water and illuminates the cliffs.
“Even the village has plenty of perfect spots to enjoy the last few rays of the day, with both the Cottage Hotel and The Hope and Anchor having great terraces.”
Helen suggests heading up to a viewing platform – Horizon 22[/caption]
The London skyline is beautifully lit up during the late summer evenings[/caption]
Venture up high
Travel Writer Helen Wright said: “There is no better place in London to watch the sun go down than at the top of Horizon 22.
“This observation tower is the one of the highest in London, with panoramic views across the city.
“Dusk is the best time to go as you can watch the sun go down and see all the city lights twinkle into view when it gets dark.
“There is a cafe at the top (that also sells wine if you want to indulge) and the best thing of all, it’s free to enter! Making a reservation in advance is recommended.”
Head to the Garden of England
Deputy Travel Editor Kara Godfrey suggested Kent for a daytrip, she said: “Watching the sun set over the ocean is one of the most relaxing ways to spend an evening.
“And on my doorstep is Folkestone harbour, which on a clear day even has views of France.
“But perch up at The Lighthouse, listen to some live music and wait for the pink sky to light up.”
Head to Whitby for some incredible fish and chips[/caption]
Sophie suggests heading to the beach to enjoy the takeaway[/caption]
Fish and chips anyone?
Assistant Travel Editor Sophie Swietochowski added: “This Sunday will be one of the last days of the year that you can indulge in the summertime ritual of fish and chips on the beach – that is if you want guaranteed decent weather.
“There are plenty of scenic shores across the UK where you can do this, serving up piping hot chippies doused in vinegar, but one of my favourite spots has to be Whitby.
“There’s a reason the dramatic scenery in this windswept town in Yorkshire influenced Bram Stoker when he was writing his Dracula novel.
“The gloomy Abbey, in particular, was a huge inspiration and it still stands there now, dominating a grassy hillside and overlooking the sandy shore below.
“On a sunny day, few beaches are prettier. Before you settle in to admire the scenery, though, grab yourself a portion of fish and chips from the famous Magpie Cafe – it serves some of the best: flakey fish coated in a light and crispy batter and chips cooked as they should be, crunchy on the outside and pillowy on the inside.”
Weekend Escape
Sun Writer Helen Wright said: “One of the most serene places I have ever stayed is The Front Rows on Portland Dorset.
“Part of the Pennsylvania Castle Estate, these individual caravans are perched on a cliff top and feel a world away from civilisation.
“Of course, Portland and the Dorset mainland is a short drive away, but up on the brush, looking out to sea you could be on a deserted island.
“The static caravans are so affordable considering the premium location and guaranteed peace and serenity. If you book three nights it’s £120 a night and you can cook in the fully-equipped kitchen to save even more money.
“I went for a glass of wine and a cheese board as the sun was setting and it was the perfect way to say goodbye to the last throes of summer.”
Imagine sitting here enjoying the last of the summer hours while the sun goes down[/caption]
Go remote
Travel Reporter Alice Penwill said: “As a countryside girl at heart, I love being out of the city and finding some pretty remote and calm places – one of my favourites is Moelfre in Anglesey.
“It’s a quaint former fishing village with beautiful pebbled coves and long stretching strips of land out to sea with lighthouses perched on the top.
“Not only is it beautiful in the summertime, but the unspoiled views at sunset are incredible.
“Of course while you’re there, stop into Ann’s Pantry for a Welsh beer or a bite to eat, and the Coastal Cafe for fish and chips.”
It’s the very last 6PM sunset this weekend[/caption]
