The best staycation destinations in the UK

New research by experts at credit card brand Aqua reveals which UK locations are the best, and most affordable, for a staycation.

Written by Hayley Bevan and Victoria Smith

Published: 17/03/25Published on March 17th, 2025

Last reviewed: 17/03/25Last reviewed on March 17th, 2025

13 mins read

The best staycation destinations in the UK

Shorter travel times, no airports, and cost savings: these are just some of the reasons more people in the UK are opting for a holiday ‘staycation’ instead of jetting off abroad. In fact, 76% of Brits prefer to take at least one staycation per year. But with so many beautiful spots to choose from, which is the best staycation destination?

To find out, we conducted new research to find out the best places for a UK staycation. Our study considers factors such as the average cost of accommodation, the number of social media location hashtag posts, the average monthly search volume, and the temperature and rainfall levels in spring.

Additionally, we’ve shared top tips for how best to save for a staycation, and how to manage your money effectively while you’re away.

The best staycation destinations in Spring

1. London

London ranks as the top UK staycation destination, with its rich history and culture attracting visitors nationwide. The city sees 372,000 monthly Google searches and dominates Instagram with 169 million #London posts. Despite its reputation for high prices and average accommodation costing £151 per night for two adults, overall London scores the highest. With spring temperatures around 9.8°C, it’s the perfect time to explore world-class museums and galleries like the British Museum and Tate Modern or catch a show in the West End.

Beyond the famous landmarks, London’s diverse neighbourhoods offer plenty to explore. Notting Hill is a must-visit in spring, with its pastel-coloured townhouses, independent boutiques, and lively Portobello Road Market. In Shoreditch, visitors can discover trendy street art, vintage shops, and vibrant nightlife, while Greenwich provides stunning riverside views and historic attractions like the Royal Observatory. For a more local feel, Hampstead offers charming streets, cosy cafés, and the expansive Hampstead Heath, perfect for a scenic springtime walk.

2. Liverpool

Taking second place for the best staycation, Liverpool is a vibrant city with around 2.1 million monthly Google searches and 17.8 million Instagram posts tagged #Liverpool. While Liverpool F.C. is likely what's fuelling much of the interest, the city offers far more than football. Visitors can explore the Royal Albert Dock, home to the Beatles Story, Tate Liverpool, and waterfront dining, or stroll along the Three Graces for stunning architecture. Music lovers can visit The Cavern Club, while history buffs can explore the Maritime Museum.

3. Portsmouth

Portsmouth claims third place in our ranking, with affordable accommodation averaging £73 per night. The city has 2.4 million Instagram hashtag posts and 98,000 monthly Google searches, proving its popularity. With spring temperatures breaking into double figures, it’s perfect for a day at Southsea Beach, with its lively promenade and pier, or West Wittering Beach, known for golden sands and watersports. History lovers can explore Portsmouth Historic Dockyard, home to HMS Victory and the Mary Rose Museum, while the Spinnaker Tower offers stunning coastal views. For shopping and dining, Gunwharf Quays provides waterfront outlets, and Old Portsmouth charms with cobbled streets and seafood spots.

4. Northumberland

Coming in at fourth place is Northumberland. Whilst slightly more expensive than Portsmouth, with the average accommodation costing £136 per night, it’s one of the warmer locations, and only sees around 39mm of rainfall throughout the spring months. April is the perfect time of year to take advantage of everything Northumberland has to offer, from taking a trip to Bamburgh Beach and exploring Harry Potter filming location Alnwick Castle, to visiting Europe’s largest Dark Sky Park, Kielder Observatory and seal and puffin spotting on a Farne Islands boat trip.

5. Southampton

Rounding out the top five is Southampton, a vibrant coastal city offering a perfect mix of history, green spaces, and waterfront views. With average spring temperatures in double figures, it’s ideal for exploring Southampton Common, Ocean Village Marina, and the city’s maritime heritage at the SeaCity Museum. The city is also affordable, with average accommodation costing just £92 per night for a weekend stay. While Southampton does see over 50mm of rainfall per month, the weather shouldn't stop you from enjoying coastal walks, shopping at Westquay, or discovering the nearby New Forest National Park.

The most affordable staycation destinations in the UK

Travelling within the UK can often be a cost-effective way to escape day-to-day life, eliminating the need to fork out on flights and other overseas travel expenses. However, we recognise that every holidaymaker has unique financial circumstances and varying budgets. So, to help, we’ve compiled a list of the most affordable staycation destinations.

1. Plymouth

Plymouth claims the top spot as the most affordable staycation destination, with an average weekend stay for two costing just £65 per night. This coastal city offers a mix of history, scenic views, and culture, making it perfect for a spring getaway. Visitors can explore the historic Barbican district, home to the famous Mayflower Steps, or enjoy a leisurely stroll along Plymouth Hoe, with stunning views of the coastline and the iconic Smeaton's Tower lighthouse. The city’s rich maritime heritage and charming cafés make it a relaxing and affordable destination.

2. Blackpool

Blackpool takes second place, with an affordable weekend stay costing just £69 per night. Known for its lively atmosphere and iconic attractions like Blackpool Pleasure Beach and Blackpool Tower, it’s a fun-filled destination perfect for a budget-friendly staycation. Whether you’re enjoying the vibrant beach, visiting the Blackpool Zoo, or taking a trip along the famous Golden Mile, Blackpool offers plenty of entertainment without breaking the bank.

3. Portsmouth

In third place is Portsmouth, with a weekend stay costing £73 per night. The city’s vibrant mix of waterfront living, cultural attractions, and rich naval history make it an intriguing destination for a staycation. Visitors can take in the stunning views from the Spinnaker Tower, explore the historic dockyards, or discover the charm of Portsmouth’s colourful neighbourhoods. The city’s inviting atmosphere and relaxed pace provide a perfect backdrop for exploring the quaint streets of Southsea or enjoying fresh seafood at one of the waterfront restaurants.

The UK’s most ‘viral’ staycation destinations

From the colourful streets of Notting Hill to the rolling Welsh countryside, the UK is brimming with stunning scenery and photo-worthy spots. And with staycations in such high demand, we looked at how many Google searches and Instagram tags each location has to determine the most coveted destinations. Combining both metrics, here’s what we found:

1. London

London claims the crown as the UK's most viral staycation destination. With over 169 million Instagram posts tagged #London and 372,000 average monthly Google searches, it's clear that this bustling metropolis continues to captivate visitors. From the iconic London Eye to the historic Tower Bridge, and the vibrant Camden Market, there’s no shortage of photogenic spots. The city's unique blend of modern landmarks, diverse boroughs, lush parks, and historic sites ensures that there are endless opportunities for social media snaps, making it the ultimate staycation destination.

2. Liverpool

In second place is Liverpool, boasting 17.8 million Instagram posts under #Liverpool and a staggering 2.1 million monthly Google searches. The city's photogenic spots include the stunning Albert Dock, the iconic Liver Building, and the lively atmosphere around Mathew Street. Visitors also capture the historic Beatles statue, St George’s Hall, and vibrant street art in the Baltic Triangle, showcasing Liverpool’s rich cultural heritage and vibrant nightlife. With its growing popularity, Liverpool’s dynamic mix of music, culture, and history makes it a must-visit staycation spot.

3. Manchester

Manchester rounds out the top three, with 20 million Instagram posts tagged #Manchester and 218,000 monthly Google searches. Known for its unique architecture and lively arts scene, Manchester’s John Rylands Library and the colourful street art of the Northern Quarter make it a haven for photographers. The city's Deansgate Towers and the scenic New Islington Marina are also popular Instagram backdrops. With a substantial number of searches, Manchester remains a highly sought-after staycation destination, offering visitors a mix of culture, history, and vibrant urban life.

The UK’s best staycation ‘hidden gems’

While it can be exciting to see social media hotspots in person, sometimes we want to simply relax and explore somewhere a bit more off-the-beaten-path. With this in mind, we delved deeper to explore which destinations are the ‘hidden gems’ in our list, with the fewest Google searches and Instagram posts.

1. Robin’s Hood Bay

Robin Hood’s Bay tops the list as the best hidden gem staycation spot in the UK, with 112,000 Instagram posts tagged #RobinHoodsBay and just 2,100 monthly Google searches. This picturesque fishing village in North Yorkshire offers a tranquil escape with charming cafes, pubs, and local shops. The surrounding coastal cliffs provide breathtaking views and scenic walking paths, perfect for nature lovers. Its proximity to well-known towns like Whitby makes it an ideal base for those seeking both relaxation and adventure, but its serene atmosphere ensures it remains a peaceful retreat.

2. The New Forest

In second place is The New Forest, a nature lover’s paradise with 68,200 Instagram posts and 5,100 monthly Google searches. Known for its free-roaming ponies and vast walking trails, this stunning national park offers visitors a chance to reconnect with nature. The picturesque landscapes, ancient woodlands, and tranquil villages make it an ideal destination for a peaceful staycation, whether you’re hiking, cycling, or simply enjoying the serene surroundings.

3. Southend-on-Sea

Southend-on-Sea secures third place, with 443,000 Instagram posts tagged #SouthendonSea and 4,800 monthly Google searches. This lively seaside town on the Thames estuary is known for its famous pier, sandy beaches, and vibrant seaside attractions. Visitors flock here for a classic British beach holiday, with plenty of family-friendly activities, amusement arcades, and picturesque promenades, all with easy access from London. Southend-on-Sea offers a perfect blend of fun, relaxation, and coastal charm.

4. Malvern, Stratford-upon-Avon, and the Yorkshire Dales

Malvern, Stratford-upon-Avon, and the Yorkshire Dales share fourth place as hidden gem staycation spots. Malvern, with 514,000 Instagram posts and 20,000 monthly Google searches, offers visitors scenic walks and a relaxing atmosphere in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Stratford-upon-Avon, with 519,000 Instagram posts and 10,000 monthly Google searches, is rich in literary history as the birthplace of William Shakespeare, featuring Tudor architecture and the renowned Royal Shakespeare Theatre. The Yorkshire Dales, with 878,000 Instagram posts and 16,000 monthly Google searches, is a haven for nature lovers, boasting dramatic landscapes, hiking trails, and picturesque villages.

5. Ilfracombe, Broadstairs, Dartmouth, and Salcombe

Ilfracombe, Broadstairs, Dartmouth, and Salcombe tie for fifth place as coastal hidden gems. Ilfracombe, with 201,000 Instagram posts and 27,000 monthly Google searches, is known for its stunning coastline and charming harbour, as well as being a gateway to Exmoor National Park. Broadstairs, with 318,000 Instagram posts and 28,000 monthly Google searches, is a traditional seaside town in Kent, famous for its sandy beaches and Victorian charm. Dartmouth, with 843,000 Instagram posts and 22,000 monthly Google searches, is a picturesque town on the River Dart, offering stunning views and historic sites. Lastly, Salcombe, with 293,000 Instagram posts and 29,000 monthly Google searches, is a scenic town in South Devon, known for its beaches, clear waters, and sailing opportunities.

Top tips for budgeting for a staycation, and saving money while you’re away

Staycations are a fantastic way to explore new sights and destinations without venturing too far from home. However, like any trip away, staycations can still sometimes be costly. To help holidaymakers, Sharvan Selvam, Commercial Director at Aqua, has shared some top tips for saving for a staycation and managing your money while you’re away.

1. Create a ‘staycation’ savings plan

"In the lead-up to your staycation trip, set up a separate savings account exclusively for your upcoming holiday. This will help you track your savings progress and prevent you from dipping into these funds for other expenses.

“To help budget for your holiday, consider setting up an automated direct debit to your current account months in advance. Even small, regular contributions will accumulate over time, ensuring you have a dedicated fund for your trip."

2. Plan your trip well in advance

“A good way to keep costs down is to plan your staycation well in advance. Work out where you’re going, what kind of accommodation you want, how long you’ll stay, and activities you’ll do once there. Once you have an idea of your schedule, you can work out a rough estimate of how much money you’ll need while you’re away.

“A top tip: it’s a good idea to have an emergency fund in place before your holiday. If anything goes wrong, you know you have a pot of money to help cover the cost of emergencies or extra expenses. That way you can enjoy your holiday with peace of mind.”

3. Look out for free, or low-cost, activities

"While away on your staycation, sticking to a budget doesn't mean you can't relax and enjoy yourself. There are plenty of free activities and attractions in the UK you can take advantage of, like beaches, nature trails, museums and cultural sites.

“If your accommodation includes self-catering facilities, consider preparing some of your meals to save money. Additionally, when heading out on a day trip, pack snacks and drinks in advance to help reduce costs while you're out and about."

4. Be smart with your money

“A credit card can be a helpful tool to have while on a staycation. Your credit card can help you in an emergency, for example, if you need to cover unexpected expenses. Using a credit card can also help you work towards building your credit score if you stay within your credit limit and make your repayments on time.

“If you’re thinking about using your credit card to book any part of your holiday, like travel or accommodation, make sure you have a solid repayment plan and spend within your means. Most importantly, don’t use a credit card to pay for a holiday that you can’t really afford.”

Methodology

To uncover the best places for a staycation, we created a seedlist of 55 popular staycation destinations in the UK. These were then ranked these according to the following metrics:

The cost of accommodation for one night, for two people - Booking.com

The number of Instagram posts with the relevant hashtag - Instagram

The average number of monthly Google searches in the UK - Google Keyword Planner

The average temperature in April (°C) - metoffice.gov.uk

The average rainfall levels in April (mm) - metoffice.gov.uk

Each individual metric was indexed to give it a score out of 10, and then an overall index was created by taking an average of each metric’s score. These were then ranked from highest, to lowest, to reveal the final ranking.

Contributors

Hayley Bevan

Hayley is an editor at Aqua.

Victoria Smith

Victoria is an editor at Aqua.