coastal

Brits have shared the top 30 things they love most about staycations as more and more choose to stay at home instead of going abroad

Brits’ favourite things about a staycation include shorter travel times, avoiding the airport – and proper pub lunches. A poll of 2,000 adults revealed over a third of Brits would prefer to holiday on home turf than go abroad. In addition, rising travel costs have made 50% of Brits more likely to holiday at home.

Nevertheless, many enjoy the opportunity to visit the countryside and take in scenic drives. For 28%, the stunning coastlines are the best thing about staying in the UK, with 62% saying the best type of staycation is a ’coastal getaway’. This was followed by 50% who love a city break and 28% who enjoy camping or glamping.

Eurig Druce, managing director of Vauxhall, which commissioned the research, said: “The UK is such a wonderful place to holiday, and it’s been great finding out why people love it so much.

“Everyone has memories of holidaying in the UK from their childhood, and more than ever, Brits are choosing ‘staycations’ over going abroad, whether that be because of the beautiful scenery on our doorstep or the comfort of travelling in your own car.”

The south west of England was considered the best place to get away for 21%, followed by Scotland (15%) and Wales (11%).

It emerged those polled, via OnePoll.com, are willing to spend an average of £391.11 per trip. And the only potential downside was that 78% felt the weather could make or break a holiday in the UK.

The car is the most common mode of transport (80%) with the average person travelling just under 206 miles. Of the electric vehicle drivers polled, 77% said having charging points at their accommodation is important.

The research found 15% have been asked by their children to be more environmentally friendly when planning their trips, and one in 10 said sustainability is a priority for them when booking.

Eurig Druce from Vauxhall added: “The Grandland Electric has been designed with families in mind, with a spacious interior, large boot and an electric range of over 300 miles, making it the ideal vehicle for a ‘staycation.’

“Whether it is stunning coastlines, rural escapes or bustling city centres, the home nations have some fantastic places on offer for people to enjoy.”

THE TOP 30 THINGS BRITS LOVE ABOUT STAYCATIONS

1. Stunning coastlines
2. Shorter travel times
3. Visiting historical landmarks
4. Green countryside
5. Avoiding the airport experience
6. Woodland walks
7. Fish and chips
8. Learning more about the UK
9. Proper pub lunches
10. Taking scenic drives
11. Feeling refreshed
12. No luggage restrictions
13. Taking the dog
14. Full English breakfasts
15. Staying in unique places
16. Wildlife watching
17. Supporting local independent shops
18. Watching the sunset
19. Everything in a language you understand
20. Familiar shops and produce
21. Ice cream
22. Not having to worry about exchange rates
23. Live music
24. The people
25. Amusement arcades
26. Local festivals
27. Farmers’ markets and local produce
28. Proper tea
29. Trying regional dishes
30. Sleeping in without the guilt of missing the day

FORGET the white sand beaches of the Caribbean – actress Michelle Keegan has opted for a quiet and beautiful village in Majorca for her latest holiday.

The tiny destination is in the heart of the Tramuntana mountains, but is right next to the coast and is within walking distance to a little bay with clear waters.

We’ve all heard of Majorca, the Balearic Island loved by Brits gets over two million visitors every year.

Lots will flock to the capital of Palma, but there are so many other beautiful spots to explore – and Michelle Keegan is exploring it right now.

The former Coronation Street actress posted images of herself enjoying the Spanish sunshine on Instagram.

So what is there to do in the pretty village of Deià?

GET IT BOOKED

The ‘cheap luxury’ beach resorts under 4 hours from UK with breaks from £75pp

ALL IN

The CHEAPEST all-inclusive holidays in May half term – from £259pp and kids go free

The coastal village has the best of both worlds as it’s tucked away in the mountains and is minutes from the coast.

To explore Deià, be prepared to take on a hill or two as visitors do comment on how steep the cobbled streets are, with the highest point being the church.

The roads are narrow too so your best bet to get around is taking a local taxi, walking or hiring a bike.

Just a short walk from the village is Cala Deià, a small pebbly cove that has crystal-clear waters and is popular for swimming and snorkelling.

One visitor said: “It is very rocky but absolutely gorgeous and great for swimming.”

Another added: “This cove is amazing – we are already ready to return.”

If you get peckish, there are cliffside restaurants including Ca’s Patró March and Can Lluc.

Deià is small, and it’s also very exclusive with some pricey hotels like La Residencia, A Belmond Hotel which was previously owned by Richard Branson.

Check out this Majorca hotel near a beautiful beach cove…

*If you click on a link in this box, we will earn affiliate revenue

Gavimar Cala Gran Costa Del Sur, Majorca

This hotel sits on Majorca’s Cala Gran Beach, a beautiful cove just a short drive away from the coastal town centre, with its trinket shops and relaxed bars. The hotel itself has all the activities and entertainment you’d expect, including bingo and live music – as well as some unique extras like mini golf and archery. Week-long breaks start from £478pp.

BOOK HERE

Back in the 1980s Richard Branson transformed the crumbling mansion into a luxury hotel – which he then sold in 2002.

The Belmond Hotel has pretty suites, a swimming pool and is surrounded by palm trees.

Luckily it’s not all luxury hotels. At Hostal Villa Verde which has simple rooms with enviable views, holidaymakers can book a stay from £60 per person per night.

There are lots of local restaurants to try too. One visitor recommended sitting on the terrace at Es Punt to try padrón peppers and patatas bravas.

Another is Restaurante Miró which has a beautiful patio area and visitors have said it’s a great place to watch the sunset.

If you want to explore Deià, head to Majorca’s capital of Palma and from there it’s a 40-minute drive.

Michelle has also shared snaps of her exploring the neighbouring destination of Valldemossa.

It’s another mountain village which sits around Real Cartuja, a huge palace and monastery.

Just like Deià, Valldemossa is considered one of the most beautiful towns and villages in the country.

Michelle and her husband, Mark Wright, are frequent visitors to the island and even have their own apartment in Majorca.

For more hidden gems in Majorca, check out these recommendations from locals including secret bars and cheap beach clubs.

And discover the waterpark hotel where Stacey Solomon went on holiday with Blue Flag beach and unique ice fountain.

This sun-soaked city that welcomes more than 3,000 hours of sunshine a year and a tropical climate, is a haven for holidaymakers seeking a quieter escape from the tourist crowds

A beautiful coastal city, less than three hours from the UK, offers a scenic escape with 21C April temperatures and £13 flights.

Almería, in southeast Spain, is set against the diverse landscapes of volcanic beaches, azure waters, and dramatic desert, with balmy rays and virtually year-round sunshine. It’s a lesser-known destination compared to the likes of Costa del Sol, with quieter beaches and a laid-back atmosphere for a more authentic Spanish experience.

Due to its location near the Tabernas Desert, Almería is known as the ‘desert coast’ and enjoys a warmer, drier climate than neighbouring areas. It welcomes more than 3,000 hours of sunshine a year and only around 26 days of rainfall, making it a highly desirable sun-soaked destination.

READ MORE: ‘Secret’ beach praised for crystal-clear waters and ‘dream-like’ beautyREAD MORE: ‘I’ve been to every country in the world and my favourite was so good I moved there’

In April, visitors can expect to bask in a balmy 21C and enjoy eight hours of blistering sunshine. During the summer months, temperatures can creep up to 32C, with an inviting 12 hours of sunshine every day, and a warm 24C in the turquoise sea.

Aside from the inviting climate, the coastal city offers an affordable holiday, with flights from London to Almería starting at £13 in April, or £17 from Manchester, according to Skyscanner. What’s more, prices don’t rise too much during the peak summer season, with flights from Manchester to Almería costing from £28 one-way in July, or from £33 departing from London.

Once you’ve arrived in the pretty Spanish city, the appealing prices only continue. Travel experts at First Choice found that a beer could set you back just £3 (€3.50) in Almería, while a three-course meal for two typically costs between £25 (€30) and £30 (€35).

Alongside its stretches of golden-sand beaches, crystal-clear blue waters, and diverse landscapes, there’s plenty to explore in the Spanish region. The walkable, compact city centre is brimming with charm, from its Gothic and Renaissance architecture to ancient landmarks, narrow streets and bustling tapas bars.

Almería is renowned for its huge tapas culture and vibrant bars, so you’ll often get free tapas with every drink, as you dine alongside Spaniards. There’s also the 16th-century cathedral towering over the streets, the Plaza Vieja with its beautiful architecture and palm trees, and the main shopping area of Puerta de Purchena, which is brimming with boutique shops.

Away from the city is the protected Cabo de Gata-Níjar Natural Park, with volcanic cliffs, hidden coves, and some of the most stunning Spanish beaches. There’s also the striking Tabernas Desert that you can explore during a guided day tour, as well as the charming whitewashed hilltop village of Mojácar.

The village may look recognisable to some as it was famously used as the backdrop for major Hollywood movies, including Indiana Jones, and the hit TV series Game of Thrones. There’s even the opportunity to visit the preserved Wild West film set of MiniHollywood Oasys, which offers various shows and attractions in a setting that will transport you straight onto the set of Indiana Jones.

Do you have a travel story to share? Email webtravel@reachplc.com

This place deserves far more recognition – it has amazing views, a real sense of community, and a fascinating history too.

There’s genuinely nothing better than those first sunny spring days as we leave winter behind. It immediately makes you crave a visit the seaside, even if there’s still a slight chill and it’s not quite swimming weather yet.

Last weekend, I chose to take advantage of my renewed enthusiasm and positivity for life, and drove to a stunning coastal village that many people have never heard of. Admittedly it’s tiny, and there’s barely anything there, but there’s a welcoming pub and restaurant, breathtaking sea views , and it’s near to another popular seaside destination too. Lower Largo in Fife has a population of approximately 2,300, and it’s one of the most picturesque places I’ve seen.

The compact village overlooks Largo Bay, on the northern side of the Firth of Forth in Scotland. It required roughly an hour and a half to drive from Glasgow, and from Edinburgh, it’s just an hour’s drive away.

Largo is a historic fishing village, divided into two separate sections – Lower and Upper, with the small village of Lundin Links just to the left. Here, you won’t discover amusement arcades or crowds of holidaymakers, and it boasts a far more peaceful atmosphere than other coastal villages I’ve visited lately.

But don’t let the lack of attractions put you off. The more relaxed rhythm of life here was captivating, and already I’m eager for my next opportunity to return.

Waking up to those stunning views was an instant mood-booster, especially when the sun was shining brightly. The chilly temperature didn’t matter – the setting looked perfect, and the fresh coastal air felt wonderfully revitalising, reports the Express.

Lower Largo’s shoreline consists of sand and rocks, and it’s pristine. We noticed plenty of dog walkers enjoying the area, and even saw one brave soul taking a plunge in the sea, which must have felt incredible once she got past the initial cold shock.

The surrounding streets were equally delightful to explore. It’s fairly peaceful, meaning you’ll hardly encounter any traffic, but you will discover some impressively decorated front gardens. The nautical theme ran strong throughout, with garden gates featuring pirates, fish and mermaids.

We had breakfast at The Aurrie, a delightful cafe set within a converted church that offered such a warm and inviting ambience. Artwork from local artists lined the walls and was available to purchase, alongside an excellent range of hot dishes, coffees, and a cake display packed with tempting options. I chose the veggie haggis and potato scone roll with a flat white, and it was absolutely lovely.

During our visit, we also ate at The Crusoe, another wonderfully welcoming four-star hotel featuring a restaurant and pub. It serves all the traditional pub favourites you’d anticipate, from mac and cheese to fish and chips, and my entire family really enjoyed the experience.

Just over the way is the Railway Inn, another pub boasting a real fire that I didn’t manage to pop into, but my parents assured me it was fantastic and the ideal place for a post-dinner drink.

The pub enjoys a prime location right next to an impressive viaduct, now disused but still standing tall. It spans the Keil Burn, and was constructed to serve a section of the Fife Coast Railway Line. It’s been out of service since 1965 due to the reorganisation of British railways known as the Beeching cuts, but it remains a significant landmark and is well worth a look.

Another fascinating aspect of Lower Largo’s past is that it’s actually the birthplace of the man who inspired Daniel Defoe’s Robinson Crusoe – hence the hotel’s name.

Born in 1676, Alexander Selkirk was born in the village, and the house that now occupies his birthplace at 99-105 Main Street showcases a life-sized statue of him gazing out towards the horizon.

A signpost at the harbour points in the direction of the Juan Fernández Islands, some 7,500 miles distant, where he spent over four years shipwrecked.

I’m already looking forward to my next trip to Lower Largo. The overall atmosphere of the place was so welcoming, and it’s clear it has a strong sense of community.

It’s the ideal spot to enjoy a peaceful few days, but if you fancy exploring further afield, the beloved coastal town of St Andrews is just a 20-minute drive away.

While it’s best known for its golfing heritage and as the location where Prince William and Princess Catherine first crossed paths, there’s also a wealth of excellent pubs and eateries, bookshops and cafés to discover.

THE UK isn’t short of coastal paths but a new 2,700-mile path will become the longest of its kind in the country and even the world.

The King Charles III England Coast Path will give Brits and tourists access to the country’s entire coastline for the first time.

Natural England will celebrate the path’s official opening next week, which has been in the works for 16 years.

Around 80 per cent of the path is already open, with the final sections due to open by spring next year.

When the path is completed, it will be the longest managed coastal path in the world and eventually link with the 870-mile Wales Coast Path and 3,260 miles of the Scottish coast.

The path was named to commemorate King Charles III’s Coronation.

Read more on travel inspo

LET’S GO

I take my kids on fancy holidays abroad – but they love Butlin’s the most

ALL IN

I found the best value all inclusive London hotel… just £55pp with free food & booze

The new path means that walkers and tourists will be able to see and access hidden coves that were not previously accessible.

For example, new bridges and steps have been introduced in parts of the path.

On the Isle of Wight, new steps to a ‘secret beach’ have been built.

The steps are part of a 2.8-mile route that starts at Gurnard Luck before heading through Lynda’s Woods and reaching the beach dubbed locally as a secret spot.

On the National Trails’ website, you can see which parts of the path are open near you and also if there are any current issues that mean the path is temporarily inaccessible, for example, due to storm damage.

The site has different pages for different parts of the route, and once you go into a page, you will be able to see a map with the route on it.

You can also use filters to find nearby hotels and B&Bs as well as attractions and places to grab a bite to eat.

For example, looking at the South East coast page and map, you can walk directly along the coast through Dover, and if you want to explore more of the area, then head to Western Heights – an English Heritage fortification site that dates back to the Napoleonic Wars, which is free to visit.

Alternatively, in the South West, head on to part of the South West Coastal Path through Outer Hope, which is near Salcombe.

You could stay at The Cottage Hotel and Restaurant with sea-view rooms and cream teas out on the terrace.

The hotel sits on the cliffs just above the harbour beach in Hope Cove, so you can get to the sand and sea within a few minutes.

The map of the coastal path also highlights holiday parks, ideal for summer camping trips.

For example, in Devon near Exmouth, you can head to Cofton Holidays which has lodges, cottages, caravans and a campsite.

The holiday park runs a number of events and shows and has a high ropes course, an indoor pool and an arcade and games room.

The path ventures through popular seaside towns too, such as St Ives in Cornwall.

Other highlights on the 2,700-mile path include the White Cliffs of Dover in Kent and the Jurassic Coast in Dorset.

If you are looking for a day walk that is already fully open, you could venture from Shoreham-by-Sea to Brighton.

Setting off from Shoreham-by-Sea, you will walk next to the River Adur estuary where you can spot birds before heading past the old lighthouse in Shoreham Harbour.

The trail then follows on to Hove Esplanade to Brighton, where you can see the remains of West Pier.

Finally, in Brighton, you can enjoy the beach, pier and bustling town.

Or you could travel up north, to walk to Newbiggin-by-the-Sea, which was once a vital port for shipping grain.

You can learn more about the town in the Newbiggin Maritime Centre, and in the town, there are a number of shops and places to grab a bite to eat.

And if you happen to be there in April, make sure to catch the Kite Festival with live music gigs, film showings and of course, lots of colourful kites taking to the skies.

In other UK travel news, these are the beautiful UK hiking trails that have delicious tea rooms and beautiful castles along the way.

Plus, these are the most beautiful walks in the UK.

THE quiet town of Burnham-on-Crouch in Essex is set to be a TV star.

ITV presenter Josie Gibson was seen filming at the pretty destination on the Dengie Peninsula last week known for its top-tier sailing scene and fresh seafood.

Josie, along with a film crew, were seen at various different spots in Burnham-on-Crouch, which sits on the River Crouch.

The town that is just an hour outside of London was called “wonderfully understated” by The Telegraph and it even questioned whether it’s “the most peaceful town in England.”

While it might be quiet on land, Burnham-on-Crouch has a busy harbour, as well as a quayside, boat-building yards, listed buildings and sailing clubs.

Thanks to its location and popularity within the sailing circle, Burnham-on-Crouch is nicknamed ‘Cowes of the East Coast’.

GO SEA IT

£9.50 holiday spot with shipwrecks, seals offshore & horseshoe-shaped waterfalls

GRUBS UP

Best pubs, fish and chip shops and cafes in Sussex – by Sun readers & locals

This is after the world-renowned Cowes on the Isle of Wight which is the “Yachting Capital of the World”.

Throughout the year are sailing events, but what Burnham-on-Crouch is most famous for is Burnham Week.

The major sailing regatta is held every year at the end of August with plenty of competitive racing for various yacht and dinghy classes.

This year it will kick off on August 29 until September 5, 2026 – and it is a major week in the sailing calendar.

Last week though, the TV crew were spotted on dry land filming outside The Cabin Dairy on the High Street.

The cafe has been in operation since the 1990s, serving up breakfast, brunch, sandwiches, toasties, tea, coffee and ice cream.

Another spot that was seen in front of the camera was The Quarterdeck restaurant.

The seafood restaurant and bistro bar sits on the waterfront, serving dishes like the seafood board with Maldon cured smoked salmon, crevettes, pickled roll mops and anchovies.

Of course you can pick up fish and chips too, as well as a Sailor Sandwich with fish goujons, and oysters.

For oyster fans, check out Burnham Seafood and Oyster Bar which is a fish stall open on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays.

Here, locals can pick up top quality seafood from lobsters to crab, and of course, oysters.

Seafood is a big part of the town’s history as it used to be a thriving oyster port.

In the 19th century, the River Crouch was filled with oyster beds, which were then harvested and traded into London and across Europe.

Next door to The Quarterdeck is Harbour Delights, an American retro diner that serves up tasty drinks and desserts.

You can choose from ice cream sundaes, Belgian waffles, bubble tea, milkshakes, and enjoy a coke float.

One place the crew weren’t seen filming at, but is a Burnham hotspot is the Jolly Fryer.

The fish and chip shop in previous years was voted as the Best Chippy in Essex.

You can pick up a medium cod for two with large chips and either curry sauce or mushy peas for £21.99.

As for what’s nearby, from certain points in the town you can see across the river to Wallasea Island which has been turned into a nature reserve.

Visitors can visit by ferry, which will cost around £5 each way, to see wading birds as well as rare butterflies.

For wine fans, head to family-run Clayhill Vineyard which makes Bacchus (often referred to as England’s answer to Sauvignon Blanc) and chardonnay.

One Sun Writer who visited said: “I particularly loved the English sparkling wine and at £19 per bottle it’s much cheaper — and in my opinion nicer — than champagne.“

The vineyard has views of the River Crouch, and has a small cafe for lunch, tea and cake – and you can taste its wine here too.

For train enthusiasts, head to nearby Mangapps Railway & Museum which is a working railway and museum on a farm in Burnham-on-Crouch.

It has a three-quarter mile passenger line with restored stations, signal boxes, and visitors can go on as many train rides as they like with their ticket.

One visitor on Tripadvisor wrote: “Nice little museum. Lots of different trains and even a well-kept, older station where you can enjoy a small ride on an old train.”

It’s open on weekends between 11.30AM to 5PM. Ticket prices are £15 per adult, £8 per child and under three’s go free.

For anyone who is a fan of The War of the Worlds by H.G. Wells, then you might want to head up to Tillingham.

Fans of the book will know that village is where the narrator’s younger brother escapes to when London is invaded by Martians.

Burnham-on-Crouch is served by the Crouch Valley branch line.

From London Liverpool Street, it can be reached in just over an hour with one transfer at Wickford.

This Essex town has been called a ‘Cotswolds alternative’…

Senior Consumer Reporter Adele Cooke visited Saffron Walden…

She said: “Its Saturday market is often a place to spot TV chef Jamie Oliver. We admired the great artisan stands, but sadly didn’t spot Jamie.

“Coffee in hand, we took a stroll to St Mary’s Church, which dates to Norman times and is still the tallest building in Essex with its spire topping out at 193ft. Then it was on to Bridge End Gardens and its maze –  before a pint at the Cross Keys Hotel, also known for its great food.

“The fun continued with a visit to one of Essex’s Tiptree tea rooms. I knew Tiptree as the makers of tasty jams, often served in little jars at posh hotels.

“We got the day off to the best of starts at Tiptree’s Courtyard tea room in Saffron Walden with their traditional breakfast, a Full English complete with tasty local sausages, bacon, egg and even some traditional Tiptree brown sauce.”

For more on Essex, Britain’s smallest town named one of the coolest spots in the country with cosy pubs and coastal walks.

And this pretty village is regularly named ‘UK’s most beautiful’ is a perfect weekend break.