Five Family Staycation Destinations

With the ongoing uncertainty of Brexit and the decline of the sterling, many of the UK’s population are turning their back on the traditional two week summer holiday abroad in the favour of shorter breaks in Europe and aptly named, ‘staycations’.

Official figures released earlier this week suggest that there has been a 68% increase in holiday taken by UK residents since 1996. This figure includes an estimated 14.4 million staycations in the UK between January and April this year, up by 3% from last year.

These staycation breaks are a great chance to get families members, both young and old, together for a week or two of enjoyment without having to worry about excessive transportation costs or exorbitant tourist traps. Some of the more popular activities and destinations in recent times have been:

1. Walking Holiday, The Lake District
https://pixabay.com/en/ullswater-panoramic-water-fells-2196957/
The Lake District has long been established as a family favourite holiday destination. As England’s largest national park, the Lake District is renowned for having plenty of outdoors to explore. Those wishing to challenge themselves may fancy attempting the UK’s highest mountain, Scafell Pike. For others, the 800 square miles of lakes, forests and mountains offer an enormity of activities and sights to enjoy.

2. Medieval Mini Break, Edinburgh

https://pixabay.com/en/scotland-england-edinburgh-city-1607934/
The skyline of the Scottish capital is dominated by the imposing figure of Edinburgh Castle, the UK's favourite Castle. Home to a royalty since the rule of David the first in the 12th century, the city is known for its history. It’s easy to get lost in the streets of the medieval old town, imagining a time gone by.

However, what makes Edinburgh an ideal staycation location isn’t dependent on the city’s rich history. Edinburgh is home to the world-famous fringe festival in August of each year, which attracts performances and audiences from all over the world. Edinburgh is also home to an arguably unparalleled shopping experience and a vibrant night life. Surprisingly for some, Edinburgh is actually home to a number of pleasant beaches, though they might be a bit chilly to enjoy for most of the year! 

Edinburgh might be more expensive than other options when it comes to booking your accommodation, which is often tricky to reserve for last minute trips – but the hope is that the enormous variety of activities and experiences should mean that every unique and eclectic taste is met.  

3. The Cotswolds, England

https://pixabay.com/en/england-great-britain-cotswolds-1860977/
The Cotswolds offer the unique opportunity to for families to discover one of the UK’s outstanding areas of natural beauty. The Cotswolds are renowned for the quality of countryside and range of accommodation available, from luxurious hotels to convenient self catering Cotswolds cottages.

The Cotswolds offer ample walking and outdoor activities, similar to the Lake District – but it is the charming country villages that set the Cotswolds apart. Bustling farmer's markets, quaint antiques and rustic pubs are just a few of the attractions that draw visitors from all over the UK each year.

If you’re looking to spend time as a family (and the dog) you would be be hard pushed to find a better suited location than the Cotswolds.  

4. Off The Beaten Track, Northern Ireland

https://pixabay.com/en/united-kingdom-northern-ireland-1428683/
The national headlines might have turned their eyes to Northern Ireland for political reasons in the wake of recent elections, but that's done nothing to deter tourists from the hotspot. In fact, Belfast and the North Coast in have quietly been growing in reputation.

Many publications, including The Lonely Planet travel guide have recently named Northern Ireland as one of their must-see locations. Once you discover the stunning natural coastline, dark history and thriving capital for yourself, you’ll immediately understand why.

The journey might be off putting for those not wishing to fly, or those who might get a little sea sick on the ferry but once you’ve arrived, you won’t want to leave. Northern Ireland is perfect for short stays as most attractions are well within driving distances.

4. Surfing, Newquay and Cornwall
https://pixabay.com/en/newquay-cornwall-england-sea-beach-1599345/
Cornwall is well renowned for its gorgeous sandy beaches that attract thousands to the seaside city each year. Be it an active holiday of walking in the countryside or using one of the scores of surf schools in the area to learn, there is plenty to do to pass the hours.

Newquay lies at the heart of Cornwall. The tranquil coastal town is blessed with views of Fistral Beach, the prestigious surfing haven. The town has worked hard to transform itself from its poor press in recent times and has regained its status as one of the nation's favourite staycation destinations.

Which have you visited this year and where will you be heading next year? 

Comments