The surf town has seen a massive increase in holiday bookings as it becomes one of the UK’s fastest-growing destinations
As we usher in 2026, it’s high time to start plotting our holiday escapes for the year. For those on the hunt for the ideal staycation spot, look no further than the charming Cornish town of Newquay.
Known for its stellar surfing scene, this coastal gem has seen a surge in popularity among Brits craving a dose of summer sunshine without venturing abroad.
Holidaycottages.co.uk, the holiday rental experts, have reported a whopping 32.5% uptick in bookings for Newquay compared to the previous year, catapulting the town to the top of their list of rising hotspots.
The cathedral city of Hereford clinched second place with a 28.2% increase in bookings, while the picturesque seaside town of Beadnell secured third place with a 21.1% boost in reservations.
Newquay boasts an array of breathtaking beaches, including the renowned Fistral Bay. One smitten visitor gushed: “Fistral Beach has to be one of the most beautiful beaches in the UK. We visited whilst staying in Crantock (up the road a few miles). The water quality is amazing, it’s great for surfing. Such a cool vibe on this beach.”
Another fan took to Tripadvisor to share their love for Newquay, writing: “We return to Newquay year after year because of this beautiful beach! We love nothing better as a family than coming along, pitching up for the day, watching the surfers hit the waves, dipping our toes in the sea and fighting off the seagulls from our pasties.”
“The beach is clean and has good facilities (showers, toilets, baby change). There are a few shops and restaurants right next to the beach and a little hut where you can buy pasties and ice creams from. Honestly this place is a perfect family day out! Only downside is that parking is quite expensive and spaces are limited.”
The neighbouring Watergate Beach has also attracted plenty of holidaymakers, with TripAdvisor reviewers frequently praising how spotless the beach is.
For visitors looking beyond sandy shores, Newquay also boasts attractions including Newquay Zoo and Trerice, an Elizabethan manor house now run by the National Trust.
One guest at Trerice commented: “Tucked away down a narrow lane, a relatively small NT property, but worth a visit. We arrived just in time for a short talk by Joan, one of the volunteers, which gave an insight into its history and the various owners. Left to wander through the house at leisure with guides in the rooms. Try your hand at kayling in the garden.”
Revealing the list of up-and-coming hotspots, Sarah Pring, digital PR manager at holidaycottages.co.uk, remarked: “The UK is home to so much diversity in terms of landscapes, fauna, history and activities.
“Just a short journey away, you can be coasting some of the world’s best waves, while in a different direction, you could spend the day stepping back in time at one of the country’s many heritage sites.
“With UK destinations trending on social media platforms like TikTok, alongside far-flung international destinations, we’re seeing so many travellers re-explore domestic travel and realise you don’t need to go far to experience beauty.”
2026’s top 10 emerging destinations:
- Newquay
- Hereford
- Beadnell
- Broadhaven
- Bamburgh
- Holt
- Wollacombe
- Bridport
- Bakewell
- Seahouses