With the ongoing effects of the pandemic and travel restrictions remaining in place for some countries, the number of people choosing to go on a staycation rather than a trip abroad has rocketed in the past couple of years and continues to boom.
If you ever wanted to know where the best places are to go, we’ve researched which areas offer the best staycation locations based on the number of hotels and restaurants available, coupled with the average overall temperature of the region.
London
The UK capital is one of the biggest, busiest, and most visited cities in the world, and there are countless sights and attractions to keep you entertained while you’re there.
A melting pot of different cultures and times, London is the place where you can see both towering, state-of-the-art skyscrapers and imposing Gothic structures with wonderfully grim histories behind them, such as the infamous Tower of London.
Unsurprising given its size, London also has the highest number of restaurants in the UK, clocking in a whopping 20,564 restaurants, according to our data. London holds the most Michelin-starred restaurants in Europe bar Paris, and the sixth most in the world. From super-stylish eateries to more homely pubs, in the capital, you can easily find food all from all corners of the world.
London also benefits from the highest average temperatures in the UK at around 17 degrees, which makes it an ideal place for both sightseeing and indoor entertainment, such as the world-renowned theatres, galleries and museums.
Worth seeing: The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, British Museum, Leadenhall Market
Cornwall
Next up on our list is Cornwall, a beautiful area along the southwest coast known for its stunning views, gorgeous sandy beaches, and picturesque villages.
There’s much on offer in Cornwall, from popular tourist sites like the Eden Project and the bustling city of Newquay that receive crowds of visitors to more secluded spots such as Minack Theatre on the tip of Porthcurno and the golden sands of Trevone Bay tucked away just outside of Padstow.
And for the more adventurous among you, there’s plenty of fun to be had with sailing, surfing, and kayaking available at various skill levels.
When you’re looking for a bite to eat, take your pick from 1,965 restaurants. It’s not just the pasties and ice cream that Cornwall is famous for – it’s also home to some of the best seafood dishes you’ll find in the UK. And with nearly 2,500 hotels, you won’t be short of places to stay.
Worth seeing: Adrenalin Quarry, The Camel Trail, Tintagel Castle
Kent
Long known as ‘the garden of England’, Kent is the ideal getaway for walking and cycling enthusiasts, with many trails and routes woven throughout this slice of quintessential English countryside.
By foot, bike, or heritage railway, Kent will take you on a journey into English history via countless historic sites, from medieval Canterbury to the 900-year history of Dover Castle. With an average temperature of 15 degrees, you’ll be mostly sure of a pleasant day – it’s the Great British weather after all!
If the seaside is more your flavour, there are many bustling towns dotted along the coast to enjoy, including the popular resort of Margate, where you’ll find many fun and quirky activities for the family. Of course, you can’t visit Kent without seeing the iconic white cliffs of Dover, where you also might be lucky enough to be greeted by the seals that live there!
The fact that Kent’s Heritage Coast was the only place in the UK to be featured in Lonely Planet’s list of the best regions to visit in the world in 2022 should be enough reason to give Kent some of your time. And the fact that it’s also famous for some of the best wineries and vineyards in the UK is a nice bonus for when you fancy a tipple.
Worth seeing: Prison Island, Canterbury Cathedral, Chapel Down Winery
Lake District
Despite having a reputation for being one of the rainiest places in England, between the tranquil lakes and soaring fells, the Lake District is the largest National Park in England and is a spectacular place to visit.
Some areas, such as Windermere, are counted among the most popular tourist spots in the UK and offer a multitude of things to do (the boat rides are a must!). But there are still plenty of quiet forests, lakes, and rivers that make it effortlessly easy to completely lose yourself in the fantastical beauty of it all. Among the Lake District’s many waterfalls, Stock Ghyll Force just outside of Ambleside is a particularly peaceful spot to listen to the water.
When you’re done with the hiking, cycling, and walking, there are plenty of sleepy villages and laid-back attractions to visit. Take a trip into the magical world of Beatrix Potter at Hill Top Farm or wander through chocolate box villages with amazing country pubs to sit and relax in for those chilled out days.
The Lake District is too beautiful to avoid because of the potential of rainy days; just make sure the little ones are prepared for the weather and throw a sturdy kids’ umbrella in their backpack.
Worth seeing: Tarn Hows, Theatre By The Lake, Grasmere Gingerbread
Edinburgh
The last but certainly not least place to visit on our list is the city of Edinburgh. Split between the Old Town and the New Town, the winding streets of Edinburgh have many secrets to be uncovered.
The famous Royal Mile, which runs through the heart of Edinburgh’s Old Town and connects the two royal residences (Edinburgh Castle and Holyrood House), is the perfect place to experience Edinburgh’s past and present. This is the city where you can explore some of the oldest symbols and artefacts of Scottish history before filling your shopping bags and taking lunch in one of the fantastic restaurants or cafes.
If the weather is on your side, take a picnic with you and climb Arthur’s Seat, an ancient dormant volcano that offers you 360-degree views of the city below and the Lothians. If you don’t feel up to the climb, there are plenty of parks, galleries, and gardens, such as the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh, where you can find a peaceful hideaway from the busy streets.
Edinburgh’s also a cultural hub, being home to the Edinburgh Festival Fringe, the world’s largest art festival, the Edinburgh International Film Festival, Hogmanay and many more amazing music and entertainment venues.
Worth seeing: Scott Monument, Lauriston Castle and Gardens, Scotch Whisky Experience
So if you were wondering where to go on your next staycation or even just a weekend away from it all, we hope these have inspired you to plan your next trip a little closer to home.
