A Travelodge study showed that the ‘staycation’ is hotter than ever this year, with 74% of Brits planning to holiday closer to home, rather than venturing further afield. A survey of 3,000 people revealed that seaside destinations across the UK are the most popular, followed by city breaks and rural holidays.
These staycations will boost the UK economy by £15 billion, as people plan to spend on average £430 for their holiday. What’s more, the results also showed that 51% of Brits take several mini-breaks during the year rather than all their holidays at once, and 56% of holidaymakers are planning at least one-week vacation, compared to the 21% taking a traditional two-week holiday.
We asked our followers where they want to go this summer and why for a chance to win the ultimate staycation. Here are some of the highlights: the 10 hottest staycation destinations of 2014.
London
“So much to see and do. Go see a show, dine out, river trip, do the Eye, do the Shard, do the cable car at Greenwich, do Portobello Road, have a canal trip through RegentsPark, visit Strawberry Hill… I’ll need a week, I think!”
While sun and sand are synonymous with summer holidays, Brits also can’t resist the call of the iconic capital. London is a popular return destination, whether it’s for a special celebration, coming back with kids or simply a trip down memory lane. There’s always a plethora of attractions to suit every kind of holidaymaker and also makes for a great and memorable family holiday. Whether you’ve been once or 10 times, no two trips to London are ever the same.
Cornwall
“Cornwall is the perfect holiday spot. Enjoy the beaches, the wild rugged beauty of the place and perhaps try a pastie or two.”
If it’s beaches you’re after this summer, then Cornwall is the place for you. This scenic coastal retreat boasts some of the most beautiful beaches in the UK, wicked surfing spots suitable for all levels and a traditional Celtic culture. The one-in-a-kind Eden Project should definitely be high on your list!
Edinburgh
“What a city. Castles, shopping, countryside, history and great food and drink. I would like to experience the excitement of the Fringe Festival and go to some of the shows.”
Not only does the Scottish capital have its own famous castles, museums and zoos, but Edinburgh has also become known for its array of summer festivals, most notably the Fringe Festival held every year in August. Edinburgh is a unique city blending ancient history and traditions with modern attractions and a friendly vibe.
Scottish Highlands
“This part of our country contains some of the most beautiful yet wild scenery. Explore remote glens, stunning lochs, enchanted forests and the UK’s highest peaks.”
The northern parts of Scotland can seem relatively untouched by Brits, but with the rise of the staycation trend, the beauty of this area is evidently becoming more popular. The Scottish Highlands region, in particular Inverness and Fort William, are top of the list for many holidaymakers this year who can’t wait to explore the incredible wilderness and breathtaking views across the Cairngorms National Park, Loch Lomond and the West Highland Way.
Lake District
“I need to absorb the beauty of the Lakes and their history. I’m looking to relax and to take in the Great Outdoors.”
If you’re looking for some much-needed R&R, then you can’t go past the beautiful Lakes District. With its serene landscape, diverse wildlife and quaint English tearooms, it’s the best way to get back to nature. The county of Cumbria is the best place to base yourself to really explore all the Lake District National Park has to offer – go walking around the Lakes and Fells, take a historic English literature tour or try Cumberland sausage and a traditional English ale at your local pub.
“Pretty villages, wild moors, seaside towns and fish & chips on the beach at sunset.”
Is there anything better than that? Devon is undoubtedly one of the prettiest places to enjoy your fresh seafood – with its white sand beaches, clear turquoise waters and lush national parks, it’s easy to imagine you’re in a tropical paradise rather than the English countryside. It’s also a great family destination with attractions such as the Plymouth Aquarium, the PowderhamCastle and South Devon Railway.
North Wales
“There’s so much to see and do, from Swallow Falls to RAF Anglesey, Beaumaris Castle, Rhuddlan Castle, Caernarvon Castle, beaches, boating, camping, caravanning, hotelling – loads cheaper than going abroad with kids!”
Instead of heading overseas, consider heading north to the likes of Anglesey, Gwyneed and Conwy. Thanks to its diverse landscape, North Wales is renowned for its incredible natural beauty and collection of medieval castles, dating back from the 12th and 13th centuries. Make sure you take a historic railway ride – the Snowdon Mountain Railway offers the best views of the SnowdoniaNational Park.
York
“Love the history of the city. Love the old streets with cobbled stones and the unusual street names.”
The ancient cathedral city of York is heaven for any history buffs out there. This tiny town is the second most visited city outside of London, according to the Travelodge 2014 Staycation report, and holds some of the best-preserved buildings in all of Europe, such as the York Minster and the Merchant Adventurer’s Hall. York is particularly known for its spooky past – hop on a ghost walk to discover all the town’s secrets.
Blackpool
“It’s great for the whole family, it revives the spirit and reminds me of being a child!”
Blackpool is perfect for a family-friendly getaway. The Pleasure Beach is an enormous funfair with rollercoasters, kids’ rides, shows, arcade games and more – ride the UK’s tallest rollercoaster ‘The Big One’ if you dare! The panoramic Blackpool Tower also has its own attractions including a circus, dungeon, ballroom and 4D adventure ride. If you’re in Blackpool in autumn, you can’t miss the Blackpool Illuminations, a dazzling light display using over one million light bulbs, lasers and searchlights.
Brighton
“It has a bit of everything – lovely seafront pier, restaurants, quirky shops and amazing nightlife.”
If you can’t decide where to go this summer, then Brighton covers all your bases. It has the world-famous Brighton Pier with its rollercoasters and rides, the busy pebbled Brighton Beach, The Lanes (and North Laine), shopping streets filled with everything from antique jewellery to the more unusual memorabilia, and St James’s Street, Brighton’s resident gay village and home to fun bars and nightclubs.
Where do you want to go this summer? Find out about the best of 2014’s summer staycation destinations in our Get Up & Go Guide.
