Caps Off: The Ultimate Guide to UK Graduation Getaways

Graduating in Cambridge means walking in the footsteps of great minds, from Newton to Hawking. The city’s college courtyards, library nooks, and riverside punts have been the backdrop to years of study, friendships, and late-night essay crises. Now, it’s time to celebrate - with champagne on The Backs, a final formal hall, and a well-earned moment of reflection by the Cam.

Just outside the city in Newmarket, Bedford Lodge offers a refined countryside escape, perfect for unwinding after the excitement of graduation. The award-winning spa treatments make for an indulgent graduation present, while the elegant restaurant serves up a sophisticated menu for a celebratory meal. With stylish rooms and tranquil surroundings, it’s an ideal retreat after the big day.

Student life in Oxford is a blend of rigorous academia and centuries-old traditions, from lively debates in historic college halls to punting on the Cherwell. Long nights in the Radcliffe Camera and celebratory drinks at local pubs all lead to this moment - graduation in the city of dreaming spires. It’s a milestone marked by centuries of scholars before, making it all the more special.

For a stay befitting the occasion, Hartwell House offers grandeur just outside the city, with its stately architecture, exquisite gardens, and regal history creating a truly memorable setting. Inside, antique furnishings and opulent suites provide a luxurious retreat. Alternatively, Relais Henley, nestled by the Thames, blends boutique elegance with riverside charm - ideal for a refined graduation dinner or a scenic toast to success.

Leeds is a city that thrives on its student energy - from bustling coffee spots in Hyde Park to late nights in the bars of Call Lane, and graduation is the perfect moment to reflect on the friendships formed over lectures and library marathons.

For a truly luxurious graduation getaway, Grantley Hall delivers five-star indulgence, just a short drive from Leeds. Its award-winning spa, elegant suites, and exceptional fine dining make it the ultimate retreat after the celebrations.

Graduating from Imperial College London, UCL, or King’s College London means celebrating in the heart of one of the world’s most vibrant cities. From late-night study sessions in historic libraries to evenings spent exploring London’s buzzing cultural scene, student life here is as dynamic as the city itself.

For a sophisticated stay, The Athenaeum in Mayfair offers contemporary elegance, with its renowned afternoon tea and luxurious suites overlooking Green Park. The Hari, with its stylish boutique charm, is perfect for an alfresco celebration dinner, while The Capital, a refined townhouse hotel in Knightsbridge, provides a classic British retreat just steps from some of London’s best shopping and dining.

Graduating in Bath is like stepping into a period drama, with its grand Georgian crescents, honey-coloured stone buildings, and rich academic heritage. Years of study culminate in a city known for its literary connections and thermal spa culture, offering the perfect mix of history and relaxation.

For classic elegance, The Royal Crescent Hotel is an iconic stay, with its sweeping architecture, manicured gardens, and indulgent spa - perfect for post-ceremony relaxation. For a boutique retreat with a playful twist, Homewood blends quirky interiors with a luxury outdoor spa, making it an ideal spot for unwinding and celebrating in style.

Newcastle is a city that knows how to celebrate - and graduation is no exception. From the iconic arches of Grey Street to the riverside buzz of the Quayside, it’s a place where student life is as much about the friendships forged as the hard work put in.

For a luxurious post-graduation retreat, Seaham Hall offers a coastal escape just outside the city. The award-winning spa is the perfect way to unwind after years of hard work, while the stylish suites provide an indulgent setting to reflect on your achievements. Whether it's a champagne toast on the terrace or a decadent dinner at The Dining Room, Seaham Hall turns graduation into a truly unforgettable experience.

Southampton’s vibrant student life is shaped by its coastal charm and rich maritime history. From sunny afternoons in the Common to the nightlife on Bedford Place, the city has been the backdrop to countless memories. Graduation marks the transition from student life to the next chapter - whether that’s setting sail on new adventures or simply celebrating with family by the waterfront.

Nestled in the picturesque New Forest, just a short drive from Southampton, The Montagu Arms offers a refined yet cosy retreat for a post-graduation getaway. The Terrace Restaurant, with a focus on locally sourced ingredients, makes it perfect for a celebratory meal, while the elegant rooms and peaceful surroundings offer a sophisticated escape after the excitement of the big day.

Graduating in York means celebrating in a city rich with medieval charm and academic excellence. From long days in the library to nights spent in the city’s cosy pubs, student life here is a balance of hard work and historic surroundings.

For a luxurious retreat, Middlethorpe Hall offers classic country house elegance just minutes from the city. Its Georgian interiors and manicured gardens set a refined scene for graduation photos, while the award-winning spa and fine dining restaurant ensure a truly special celebration - whether it’s a champagne toast or a relaxing post-ceremony escape.