Top 10 staycations Brits are planning this summer 2021

Holidaymakers in the UK are chasing the sun closer to home this summer. About 41% of Brits are planning a summer staycation, compared to 14% who plan to travel internationally, according to the Tripadvisor Summer Travel Index 2021.  

From the seaside resort of Torquay to the picture-perfect lakeside town of Windermere and the medieval city of York, we bring you the top 10 destinations your fellow travellers are headed this summer. 

The small town of Torquay, with its sandy beaches, palm trees and harbour full of yachts could easily make you feel like you’re holidaying in the Mediterranean. Get a tan on Torre Abbey Sands, Torquay’s main beach, or Anstey’s Cove to escape the crowds. To keep the kids entertained, join a guided tour of Kents Cavern, a labyrinth of underground passages dating back millions of years, to see some of the earliest tools ever found in Britain and the remains of Ice Age animals.

This idyllic lakeside resort town is the perfect destination for water sports enthusiasts. Hire a variety of boats or equipment for paddleboarding, kayaking, canoeing, waterskiing and wakeboarding. Enjoy a luxurious stay at the Applegarth Villa, located right smack in the heart of the Lake District.

Step back into medieval times and marvel at the magnificent architecture, winding cobbled streets and dramatic stone walls surrounding the city. Explore the 800-year-old York Minster with its intricate stained glass, elaborate stonework and tombs. And if you have the stamina, climb the 275 stone steps to the top of the tower for a 360-degree view of the city. 

One of the most scenic areas in England, Cornwall also has the longest stretch of continuous coastline in the country. And the best bit? It’s one of the sunniest, too. Newquay is home to Cornwall’s finest beaches. Whether you’re planning to spend all day working on your tan or hovering over the kids as they explore the rock pools, there’s a beach for everyone.  

Known as the home of Jane Austen, Bath has a timeless beauty with its perfectly preserved Georgian houses and immaculate gardens and parks. The Roman Baths complex remains its biggest draw, showcasing the finest examples of Roman architecture in England. But for a real dip in thermal waters, head across the street to the Thermae Bath Spa, which has a stunning open-air rooftop pool.

Fun fact: Bram Stoker found inspiration for his novel Dracula while staying in Whitby in 1890. Today, this charming seaside town’s Gothic culture is reflected in its quirky streets, shops and ruins. Whitby is also known for its seafood restaurants – order the day’s catch and enjoy a sumptuous dinner as you watch the sun set before heading back to your cosy room at Ruswarp Hall. 

This tiny village sits on the shores of Lake Windermere. Take the ferry to enjoy the spectacular mountain scenery or better yet, lace up your hiking boots and explore Brant Fell Above the Bustle. The walk starts in the centre of Bowness and takes you on a steep climb to reach the fields and fell above the town where you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking scenery of the countryside.

Vibrant and cheerful, Brighton appeals to the old and young alike. The pebbled beach, amusement arcade, festivals, and buzzing nightlife pull in the crowds every summer. Explore the alleyways lined with pubs, cafes and vintage stores. Drakes Hotel Brighton, right on the seafront, offers stylish rooms with impeccable service. 

Hordes of summer travellers are drawn to the Isle of Skye for its rugged and dramatic landscapes – perfect for some outdoor adventure or a peaceful escape from city life. Portree is a great place from which to explore the other parts of the island. It’s a tranquil little village with rows of colourful houses framing the harbour. The Portree Hotel offers a cosy stay and a family-friendly atmosphere. 

Bournemouth has all the charms of a traditional English seaside town with its beautiful beaches and retro pier. The beach huts along Bournemouth’s shoreline offer a unique stay whether you’re a family of four or a couple. Looking for an unforgettable adventure? Splash out on tickets for a private micro-plane ride to catch stunning views of the coast from above.