The Rise of the Great British Staycation
The Great British staycation has experienced a significant surge in popularity over recent years, largely due to the impact of the pandemic and the rising costs associated with international travel. This trend is expected to continue, as more Brits are choosing to explore their own country rather than venture abroad.
With growing concerns about jet fuel shortages and flight cancellations, many travelers are opting for domestic destinations. An aviation expert recently warned that hundreds of thousands of flights could be canceled worldwide if the jet fuel crisis persists. Two of Europe’s largest airlines have already had to cancel flights due to soaring fuel costs, which have been exacerbated by the conflict in Iran.
Paul Charles, CEO of travel consultancy The PC Agency, stated that these concerns may lead more UK holidaymakers to choose domestic trips, which would benefit the staycation market. He added that there are already signs of increased bookings for UK hotels and other accommodations during the May to October period.
To help inspire your next holiday, the Daily Mail Travel team has compiled a list of the best staycations around the UK.
Swinney Wood Log Cabins
Located on the edge of the Peak District, Swinney Wood Log Cabins was voted Europe’s Most Romantic Resort 2025 in the World Travel Awards. While it may not offer the luxury of places like the Ritz in London or Paris’s five-star hotels, it provides peace and privacy that are hard to find elsewhere.
The log cabins sleep two adults and offer breathtaking views of the Derwent Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Each cabin includes a private hot tub and sauna, making it an ideal retreat for couples. The surrounding area offers plenty of activities, including visits to nearby Belper, known for its cute coffee shops and microbrewery tap rooms.
New Forest
The New Forest in Hampshire is a perfect outdoor staycation destination. Stroll under towering trees, admire the ponies and pigs wandering the moorland, or go crabbing off the harbor wall in Lymington. The pubs are inviting, and cream teas are a must-try. You can stay in everything from a tent to a five-star spa retreat, and family-friendly attractions like Paulton’s Park, home to Peppa Pig World, are just a short drive away.
Walberswick, Suffolk
A trip to Walberswick, one of Suffolk’s coastal towns, offers sea air, unspoiled beaches, and great food. Start your day at local deli The Black Dog for sausage rolls and coffee, then enjoy dressed crab and oysters from the Sole Bay Fish Company. Pair your meal with pints of local Adnams ale and take a long walk along the shores.
The Peak District
Hiking through the beautiful, bleak moorlands and remote ridges of the Peak District is a soul-lifting experience. Trails are well-marked, and you can catch a train to popular spots like Edale, Glossop, and Hope without needing a car. The landscape is often referred to as the ‘green lung’ of the north, with iconic locations like Stanage Edge and the Roaches offering stunning views.
Sopwell House
Despite growing up near St Albans, Sopwell House in Hertfordshire feels like a dreamy retreat. My husband and I stayed there the night after our wedding before heading to Italy for our honeymoon. We’re planning to return this weekend after our Maldives trip was canceled. The hotel offers a luxurious spa, Cottonmill Spa, with both indoor and outdoor relaxation areas. The Japanese restaurant Omboo is a favorite among guests.
Hotel Du Vin Poole, Dorset
Tucked away near Poole’s historic centre and harbourside, the Hotel Du Vin is a Georgian mansion offering 38 snug yet luxurious bedrooms. For around £80 a night, guests can enjoy Egyptian linen, velvet seating, and modern bathrooms. The hotel’s proximity to scenic coastal spots, lush countryside, and unique sites makes it an ideal staycation spot.
Nearby attractions include the Old Town Poole, Poole Quay, Sandbanks Beaches, and Trehane Blueberry PYO farm. A 60-minute car journey takes you to the iconic Durdle Door.
Durham City
Durham City, home to Durham University, offers more than just student life. The quaint Bailey, a row of shops, and the magnificent 11th-century castle make it a perfect weekend getaway. Lumley Castle Hotel, a Grade I-listed building, is an excellent choice for an elevated experience. If the weather permits, Seaham Beach in County Durham offers multi-coloured sea glass along its shores.
Salcombe, Devon
Salcombe, located in Devon, is a hidden gem that offers morning sea dips, delicious ice cream, and fish and chips on the beach. The Ferry Inn, a pub overlooking the water, is a favorite spot for drinking sessions. On one trip, we even spotted dolphins while on a boat ride. Gara Rock Beach, where I got engaged, is an hour’s scenic walk from the center and offers stunning views and great food at Gara Rock Hotel.
Liverpool and Manchester
Liverpool and Manchester, less than an hour apart, are packed with culture and character. Both cities offer brilliant museums, cool shopping, and stylish hotels, making them ideal for any kind of staycationer. The friendly locals add to the charm of these northern cities.
Trains in Scotland
Traveling by train is a fantastic way to explore Scotland. Starting with the Caledonian Sleeper from Euston, you can head to Aberdeen and then continue to Inverness or the Far North Line to Thurso. Alternatively, take a ferry to Mallaig and travel south to Glasgow. This route offers a beautiful journey through moorland and hills.
