15 best British activity breaks

Learn about wine in Birmingham

Why go: Now in their sixth year, Ecole du Vin’s weekend breaks are designed for those who want to find out more about wine, but in an informal way. Based at Birmingham’s glamorous Hotel du Vin, each course (for around 30 enthusiasts) is different, but usually focuses on 20 or so wines. And if you start to see double, there’s plenty of time to enjoy the hotel’s spa facilities and visit Birmingham’s fantastic shops too.

Great for: Sophisticated couples or single tasters.

The lowdown: Courses in May, June and July cost from £575 per couple/£335 per person for two nights half-board (www.hotelduvin.com; 0121 200 0600).