When life starts to feel like a never-ending loop, a short trip alone, with family, a group of friends or a social club can provide the perfect escape.
Sometimes just two or three nights away is all it takes to recharge, satisfy a shared interest or create lasting memories.
We know this well – but we also know that for some, planning all the details can add unnecessary stress to what should be an exciting or relaxing adventure. That’s where private coach hire and coach holidays come in.
Let’s explore some popular short break ideas, and see how coach travel can make your next getaway easier and more enjoyable.
UK short trips
A great holiday doesn’t always mean travelling far. If you’re looking for a short retreat in the UK, you’ll find that even just a few hours on the road can take you somewhere totally new. There’s no need for flights or currency exchange either!
City breaks
With plenty to see and do, a city break is a fantastic way to soak in some culture and explore somewhere special. In just a few days your group can discover local museums and galleries, enjoy the city’s restaurants and street food, and catch live music, theatre, or outdoor events.
And it’s not just about going someplace new. Even cities you’ve visited before can feel fresh with a different pace or perspective.
Some of our most popular destinations for UK city breaks include:
- Edinburgh – culture, castles, and scenic landscapes
- York – cobbled streets and medieval charm
- Liverpool – art, music, and a laid-back feel
- Bath – Georgian architecture and Roman history
- London – iconic landmarks with something for everyone
Weekend getaways
There’s nothing quite like a weekend break to recharge your batteries. They’re short enough to fit around busy lives, but long enough for a real escape.
Think historic towns, lakeside strolls, or fish and chips by the coast – wherever you go, a weekend getaway can give your group the perfect mix of fun and relaxation.
Here are our favourite weekend getaway ideas:
- A stay in the Cotswolds for picturesque views and charming villages
- A journey to Lake District for group hiking and lakeside relaxation
- A visit to the South Coast for beach fun and coastal beauty
Did you know? Hiring a private coach and driver is a great option for groups who want to most of their time away while avoid organising multiple cars or waiting for unreliable trains.
Short trips abroad
Sometimes a change of scenery means going a little further – but that doesn’t mean it has to be any more complicated. With coach travel, you can explore some of Europe’s most beautiful cities without flights or fuss.
When travelling abroad, you’ve got to visit:
- 🇫🇷 Paris – for romance, river cruises, and timeless beauty
- 🇳🇱 Amsterdam – for canals, cafés, and relaxed charm
- 🇧🇪 Bruges – for medieval squares, chocolate shops, and that fairy-tale scenery
These escapes are perfect if your group wants to experience a different culture or little extra magic. Just scenic travel, good company, and the joy of discovering somewhere new.
Short trips from Manchester
With hotels, excursions and transport all included, Bullocks’ pre-arranged coach holidays make taking a short escape even easier.
It doesn't matter if you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with a group – all you need to do is book your seat, pack a bag, and hop onboard at one of our pick-up points. Take a look at our 2025 short trips from Manchester below.
If you prefer paper, just request a brochure and we’ll post it straight to your door.
Edinburgh for the Tattoo - 3 night break
📅 01 August 2025 - 04 August 2025
🎟️ From £440 per person
This 3-night escape takes you to Edinburgh for one of the most moving and iconic events of the year: the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo. The price includes coach travel, hotel stay, and a ticket to the Tattoo itself – set against the backdrop of Edinburgh Castle.
2025 marks the 75th year of this unforgettable show, featuring the massed pipes and drums, the British Army’s lead performances, and a line-up of international talent that always delivers a powerful experience.
What's more, you’ll be stating at the Best Western Kings Manor Hotel – a comfortable base just outside the city centre.
Dorset: the Jurassic Coast – 4 night break
📅 13 October 2025 – 17 October 2025
🎟️ From £529 per person
Have a memorable time exploring the stunning landscapes of Dorset on this 4-night getaway to the Jurassic Coast, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Staying in Weymouth, you’ll enjoy a relaxing boat cruise along the dramatic coastline, a ride on the Swanage Steam Railway, a visit to the unique Abbotsbury Swannery, and more.
It’s a chance to slow down, take in the views, and explore a part of the UK that’s full of natural beauty and charm.
Short coach breaks with Bullocks
For us, it’s not just about where you go – it’s about how you get there. As a coach company, we might be biased, but we genuinely believe that the right driver, the comfort of your journey from the moment you step on board, and the freedom from stress all make a real difference.
With nearly 100 years of experience, we’re proud to offer trusted coach holidays and private hire for short trips.
- ✅ Local, family-run business
- ✅ Modern, comfortable vehicles
- ✅ Friendly, experienced drivers
- ✅ Personal customer service
Whether you’re planning a trip for a club, a family group, or a social event, we’ll take care of the logistics so you can focus on making memories.
Take a look at our latest brochure.
