The UK is set for a staycation summer – and there are plenty of hidden gems

Changing Holiday Preferences Amid Global Uncertainty

The UK is set for a staycation – This summer, the way people plan their holidays is changing. The ongoing conflict in Iran has disrupted travel across the Middle East, while soaring costs for flights and package tours to European destinations have made overseas trips less appealing. As a result, many Brits are reconsidering their usual vacation habits, opting for closer-to-home adventures. Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer recently highlighted this trend, noting that “travelers may be shifting their focus to domestic locations this year.” Despite this, the government has assured that international flights remain viable, though some individuals are choosing to cancel or delay trips to avoid financial strain.

Domestic Travel Gains Momentum

With the war in Iran causing logistical challenges, both Booking.com and Airbnb have reported a surge in interest for UK-based travel. According to the platforms, searches for May half-term holidays in the UK have increased by 20% compared to the previous year, while May bank holiday bookings have risen by 15%. These figures suggest that the nation’s domestic attractions are becoming increasingly popular, especially among those seeking value and convenience. The rise in local travel has also been fueled by the appeal of exploring familiar landscapes without the hassle of international travel.

Exploring the UK’s Coastal Wonders

For many, the UK’s natural beauty has become a compelling reason to stay home. Travel and lifestyle influencer Eboni Dixon, who frequently shares hidden spots on her social media, emphasizes that the country’s coastlines are as stunning as those abroad. “We’re surrounded by beaches, and there’s a lot more to see than people realize,” she explains. Her recent three-day wellness retreat on the Isle of Wight left her impressed, describing the experience as “unreal” and comparing the scenery to Croatia. Eboni’s recommendations include Alton in Hampshire, where she marveled at lavender fields, and Hastings, a town she praised for its vineyards and historic landmarks. She also highlights Folkestone in Kent as a rising destination, noting that its harbor offers a “tropical feel” without the need for a passport.

“The Isle of Wight is absolutely unreal—my photos look like I could have been in Croatia,” says Eboni, reflecting on her trip. “If you like a holiday that’s just lying on a beach and not really doing much, you might as well lie on a beach in the UK.”

Eboni points out that the UK’s diverse geography provides a range of experiences, from serene coastal walks to cultural explorations. “For me, it doesn’t matter where in the world I am as long as there’s something interesting to discover,” she adds. This sentiment is echoed by others who are finding that the British Isles offer a wealth of opportunities, often without the need for long-haul travel.

Reimagining the Staycation Experience

David Land and his wife Barbara, residents of the north east of England, are among those rethinking their travel plans. Originally set to visit the Maldives via Dubai, they opted to redirect their funds to a UK-based holiday in Northumberland after the Foreign Office issued warnings about the UAE. “The coastline is idyllic, it’s just not got the temperatures,” David remarks, while acknowledging the practicality of their choice. “But as long as you take a big coat and a T-shirt, you’ll be fine.” He and Barbara are eager to enjoy the region’s scenic walks, traditional pubs, and historical sites, which they believe provide a rich and varied experience compared to the more static atmosphere of a tropical resort.

“It’s a completely different type of holiday,” David says. “If you just want to lie on a sunbed and have a dip in the pool, you’d go to Spain. But if you want to keep a family entertained for a day, there’s a lot more in the UK than we give it credit for.”

David and Barbara are not new to this approach. They have previously explored Cornwall, North Wales, and Norfolk, as well as city breaks in Manchester, Leeds, and London. Their shift to local travel underscores a growing trend of prioritizing accessibility and cost-efficiency, even as the world continues to offer distant destinations. “The UK has so much to offer, and the price difference is significant,” David notes, hinting at plans to visit Portugal later this year, where he expects European travel costs to remain comparable to those in the UK.

Cornwall’s Hidden Charm

Lizzy Stroud and her husband Dave, who run self-catering accommodations in converted train carriages at stations along the Great Western Railway main line, have seen a shift in traveler preferences. Their locations in St Germans and Harvey of Hayle, near St Ives, are off the typical tourist trail, attracting those who value unique experiences. “We’re right beside the railway line, so people can watch trains, get around by trains, and enjoy a car-free holiday,” Lizzy explains. This setup has become particularly appealing as the war in Iran has driven up fuel prices, making cost-conscious travelers rethink their options.

“Our area of Cornwall is off the beaten tourist track,” Lizzy adds. “There are beautiful places here that people might not even know exist, and the quiet charm of the region is a big draw.”

The couple’s business reflects the broader appeal of domestic travel, especially in regions that offer both natural and cultural allure. Cornwall, in particular, has gained traction as a destination for those seeking tranquility and local flavor. With the A697 and A68 roads connecting the area from the north and west, and the East Coast Main Line offering access from Morpeth and Alnmouth, the region is easily reachable. For those planning a trip, the closest major city is Newcastle, home to a nearby international airport.

Planning a Staycation: Tips for UK Travelers

Whether it’s the Isle of Wight or Northumberland, planning a staycation requires careful consideration of transport and amenities. For the Isle of Wight, travelers must rely on ferries such as Wightlink, which connects Lymington to Yarmouth and Portsmouth to Fishbourne, as well as Red Funnel, which services Southampton to West Cowes and East Cowes. Hovercraft options from Southsea to Ryde provide additional flexibility for foot passengers. Meanwhile, Northumberland is accessible via major roads like the A1, A68, and A697, or by train through the East Coast Main Line.

These examples illustrate how the UK is adapting to the changing landscape of travel. As more people embrace domestic exploration, the focus is shifting from distant shores to the beauty and diversity within the country. From coastal retreats to countryside escapes, the British Isles are proving that a memorable holiday doesn’t always require an international flight.