trendy

WE all love a holiday abroad, but sometimes we forget what’s on our doorstep.

From beautiful beach towns to charming villages and incredible cities with luxury hotels to off-the-grid shepherd huts, the whole of Britain has options for every sort of staycation.

The UK staycation is on the rise, and has no signs of slowing down – the latest holiday report from Away Resorts revealed 46 per cent of Brits are opting for a staycation over an abroad break.

Sykes Holiday Cottages has also predicted a record high for staycations in 2026, reporting that bookings made in January are up 9 per cent year-on-year.

The conflict in Iran is also another factor when it comes to booking a break this year.

Data from Barclay’s has found that spending on travel agents has dropped 4.6 per cent, while airline spending was down 4.1 per cent.

SIGHT SEA

£9.50 holidaymakers’ favourite Skegness activities… away from the beach

GRUBS UP

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

Spending on UK hotels and resorts was up 1.2 per cent.

So, if you’re looking for inspiration for your next staycation, check out these 12 destinations that are Sun Travel’s wish list for 2026…

Nici Hotel, Bournemouth

“One of my favourite places in the US is Miami – so when I heard there was a hotel in the UK compared to it, I’ve been intrigued ever since.

“The Nici, in Bournemouth, is nothing like the Bournemouth I knew growing up when visiting my grandparents. 

“There’s a bright blue water swimming pool lined with pearly white sunloungers and flamingos, while palm tree designs and plants are everywhere too.

“I’m dying to eat at their South Beach restaurant too – the scallops and tuna tartare sounds delicious, as well as the ‘lost luggage’ signature cocktail list.” – Kara Godfrey, Deputy Travel Editor

Fort William, Scotland

“The higher you go, the better the views… surely? At least that’s what I’ll be telling myself when I eventually attempt to climb the tallest mountain in the UK, Ben Nevis.

“Towering a mighty 1,345 metres above sea level, this craggy peak trumps both Snowdonia in Wales and the Lake District’s Scafell Pike. Much of Scotland remains so rugged and unspoilt that the landscape in these parts feels somewhat otherworldly – which certainly adds to the appeal.

“It supposedly takes between seven and nine hours to reach the summit, meaning I could spend the remainder of my Scotland trip rewarding my efforts with whisky from the Ben Nevis Distillery, in Fort William.

“The distilling process incorporates the purest water that has trickled down from that very mountain, adding an earthy flavour to the spirit.” – Sophie Swietochowski, Assistant Travel Editor

Cragside, Northumberland

“There are National Trust properties all over the UK, but Cragside in Northumberland is the one that stands out to me.

“The house itself is considered Britain’s original smart home and it sits in a beautiful estate with pine forests, lakes and an enchanting rickety bridge.

“Plus, I’m a huge fan of Jurassic World – the house was used to film the second film in the franchise with when it became Lockwood Manor, starring Chris Pratt and Bryce Dallas Howard.

“There’s even a cottage on the site of the mansion to stay in – it looks quintessentially English with a little fireplace in the cosy lounge.”

“The National Trust house is also 30-minutes away from pretty coastal villages like Alnmouth and the town of Amble.” – Alice Penwill, Travel Reporter

Here are even more of our favourite UK seaside towns…

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

Sidmouth, Devon
Take a trip to Sidmouth on the Jurassic Coast and wander down Jacob’s Ladder to its pretty shingle beach. Make sure to walk along the promenade and check out the independent shops and boutiques. Stay at the four-star Harbour Hotel for sea views and traditional afternoon tea from £135 per room.

BOOK A STAY

Whitby, North Yorkshire
With a history of sailors and vampires, a dramatic coastal path, and the very best in pints and scampi, it takes a lot to beat Whitby. Pop in the amusements, eat award-winning fish and chips, and board the all-singing Captain Cook boat tour on the harbour. The Royal Hotel overlooks the harbour with stays from just £68 per room.

BOOK A STAY

Old Hunstanton, Norfolk
This town has some of the best beach walks beside striped limestone cliffs, a Victorian lighthouse and 13th century ruins. The beach has golden sands with rolling dunes and colourful beach huts, backed by a pretty pinewood forest. Stay at a beachfront hotel from £100 per room.

BOOK A STAY

Seahouses, Northumberland
This is an authentic British seaside break, with fishing boats bobbing on its pretty harbour and fresh catches of the day to enjoy in local restaurants. There’s no flashing arcades here, but there’s a great beach with rockpools, boat trips, and you may even spot a grey seal, too. Treat yourself to a stay at the Bamburgh Castle Inn from £129 per room.

BOOK A STAY

Bluestone, Pembrokeshire

“Having written about it for several years now, I’m very keen to check
out Bluestone in Wales – which many people say is a better, cheaper
version of Center Parcs.

“I’m particularly interested in staying here because it has the best of
both worlds for my son and I – the blue lagoon water park and indoor
adventure park for him, the spa and the walks in the surrounding
Pembrokeshire Coast National Park for me.

“I know that they are particularly proud of their Christmas offering,
but I love Wales in the early autumn.

“When the leaves start to fall and the pubs get particularly cosy, it’s
the perfect place for a relaxing long weekend.” – Caroline McGuire, Head of Sun Travel (Digital)

Ventnor, Isle of Wight

“Trendy Ventnor in the Isle of Wight is high up on my wish list for a UK staycation this year.

“Charles Dickens is even known to have declared the town ‘the prettiest place I ever saw in my life, at home or abroad’.

“Such high praise is reason enough for me to want to go and check it out – but as it turns out there is plenty more to V-Town.

“The seaside town is known for its thriving creative scene, with top-tier theatre, comedy and arts festivals. Ventnor Carnival is the second oldest carnival in the UK, and sees the town light up with colourful floats, costumes and performances.

“When it comes to somewhere to stay, The Royal Hotel was built in 1832 and was loved by Queen Victoria – plus its got a gorgeous pool and gardens to make use of if you visit in the summer time.

“And I’d treat myself to a meal in The Elderflower and Aquitania, too, for a delicious Michelin-star dinner.” – Jenna Stevens, Travel Reporter

Cambridge, Cambridgeshire

“Last year I ticked off Oxford, so it only seems right that this year I tick off Cambridge. 

“Known for its historic university, often ranked one of the best in the world, Cambridge is the ideal day trip or city escape from London, just 49 minutes from London King’s Cross.

“As a big fan of architecture, I can’t wait to see the historic buildings scattered around the city as well as go punting on the River Cam.

“I’m also such a sucker for shopping local, so heading down the different cobbled lanes dipping in and out of independent shops sounds like a dream.” – Cyann Fielding, Travel Reporter

Scilly Isles, Cornwall

“The Scilly Isles, a short ferry ride from Penzance in Cornwall, are sometimes overlooked by wildlife lovers for more exotic and far-flung destinations.

“But marine life absolutely thrives in these parts. Puffins are top of my animal wish list and now is the best time to see them, with the orange-beaked birds arriving on the coastal cliffs in April to nest before returning to the waters in July.

“The best way to see them is on a boat trip sailing around the uninhabited island of Annet – you may even get to see dolphins, whales and grey seals, too.

“The Scillies are completely car-free and camping and glamping spots are aplenty.

“I like the idea of a cosy shepherd’s hut with a roaring log burner and plenty of windows overlooking rustic scenery.” – Sophie Swietochowski, Assistant Travel Editor

York, North Yorkshire

“Having grown up near the Devonshire Street, which is thought to have inspired Diagon Alley in Harry Potter, I have always been intrigued by the city that also claims fame via the Harry Potter series.

“If you haven’t guessed it, it is York. The association is primarily due to The Shambles, a medieval street boasting wizard-themed shops and themed walking tours.

“As a lover of all things witchy, I am also intrigued to see if the city lives up to its reputation as one of the most haunted cities in Europe.” – Cyann Fielding, Travel Reporter

Clovelly, Devon

“A countryside girl at heart, I love visiting little villages and Clovelly is one of the best. It was even formerly owned by the Queen of England.

“It has pretty cobbled streets and stone cottages that are hundreds of years old. The restored walled Court Gardens are open all year round filled with flowers and greenery.

“The village is completely car free and donkeys were once used as their mode of transport. Now, the donkeys are settled in their stables at the top of the hill and tourists are free to visit Rex, Bert, Ernie and Alfred.

“I love the idea of staying in the local inn called The Red Lion Hotel in a room overlooking the harbour.

“Unlike other villages around the country, you actually need to pay a fee to enter that all goes towards preserving its charm.” – Alice Penwill, Travel Reporter

Lake District, Cumbria

“I’m keen to take my son on more outdoor adventures this year and where
better to start than the Lake District?

“As the UK’s largest park and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it feels
like the perfect place to introduce a seven year old to enjoyable but
easygoing hikes.

“But it’s also exceptionally child-friendly. We’ll start on Windermere and Bowness, making sure to check to take one of the kayaks on the lake, as well as a visit to The World of Beatrix Potter, and Brockhole on Windermere, with its adventure playground and treetop adventure.

“I’m also very keen on the alpaca walks around the stunning grounds of
The Lingholm Estate. I’ve heard some great things about a few of the campsites, including Castlerigg Hall and the National Trust’s Low Wray Campsite.

“But I’d also be hoping for a couple of nights at the lovely Storrs Hall hotel
on Lake Windermere.” – Caroline McGuire, Head of Sun Travel (Digital)

Buxton, Derbyshire

“I grew up in the Cotswolds, so my love of a pretty town is built deep into my DNA. And one on my list to visit this year is the spa town of Buxton, famed for its geothermal springs.

“Similar to Bath, it even has its own Buxton crescent of houses, and wellness spa with thermal pools.

“It’s set to have a multi-million makeover with new bars, shops and restaurants, so there’s no time better to visit. I’d definitely be choosing to stay at the Buxton Crescent Hotel too, owned by Champneys.” – Kara Godfrey, Deputy Travel Editor

Ballycastle, Northern Ireland

“Ballycastle sits on Northern Ireland‘s epic Causeway Coast, and is home to some seriously spectacular nature.

“I’d first set out on a hike to Fair Head – a huge, dramatic cliff where rugged walking paths lead to breath-taking views over the waters of Murlough Bay.

“Then I’d head to Ursa Minor Bakehouse for a well-deserved snack to re-fuel – their freshly-baked pastries are slow fermented and made with nourishing whole grains.

“A visit to Ballycastle isn’t complete without a trip to the beach – I’d make sure to visit Ballycastle Beach, and take some sunset pictures at Pans Rock bridge, too.

“I’d also use Ballycastle as a base to tick off some spectacular nearby sights on the Antrim Coast. Here you’re only 10 minutes away from Carrick-a-Rede, the historic rope bridge suspended above the Atlantic.

“Plus it’s easy to take the ferry from here to Rathlin Island, where you can spot puffins perched atop its cliffs, or see seals poke their noses out from the water.” Jenna Stevens, Travel Reporter

For more staycation inspiration, here is one Travel Reporter’s favourite English village under an hour from London that’s the perfect day out.

And here are 11 of the best English towns for a day trip from historic markets to trendy seasides.

WITH the long weekend just around the corner, a trip to some of England’s most beautiful towns is the perfect way to spend one of the days.

So our team of experts have revealed their favourites, all the way from Yorkshire to Cornwall.

Fowey, Cornwall

Fowey is frequently overlooked for the busier and more famous Padstow, but therein lies its charm.

Crowd free, but with all the magic of a sleepy, typically Cornish town, – great cafes whipping up homebaked treats, locals sharing weekend gossip in the quirky bookstore and, most importantly, those glorious harbour views.

Pick up a coffee and freshly prepped sarnie from Olive Branch Cafe – the oozing eggo mayo and crispy onion one is a crowd pleaser – then wander to Fowey Old Grammar School Garden for a picnic-style lunch among the flowers and overlooking the bobbing sailboats.

For a sitdown meal that you’ll be dreaming of for years to come, North Street Kitchen at the opposite end of the town is where to head.

CROWN GLORY

Pretty English town once the ‘capital of Cornwall’ where you might spot royals

SANDS GREAT

10 affordable English seaside towns for Easter hols with £1 rides and £2 pints

This restaurant looks a little like a battered old garage from the outside but it serves up incredible seafood from an ever changing chalkboard menu according to what the local fishermen have caught that day.

– Sophie Swietochowski, Assistant Travel Editor

Witney, Cotswolds

The Cotswolds is always a busy place during bank holidays, but my hometown of Witney is one where you can avoid the crowds but enjoy the beautiful buildings its known for.

There is the amazing Huffkins and Hunters Cake Company for a cuppa and a slice of cake, or hop in the queue at Sandwich de Witney for hugely overfilled baguettes.

Kids will love Cogges Manor Farm where they can feed some of the animals, or you can practise your mug painting at The Pottery Place in town.

Want to stay longer? I recommend the Blue Boar Inn as a cosy place to stay, or splash out on Estelle Manor just out of town – named one of the best hotels in the world.

– Kara Godfrey, Deputy Travel Editor

Chester, Cheshire

This historic Cheshire town is perfect for a Bank Holiday trip – with an intoxicating mix of beautiful architecture, history and great food and drink.

Head to The Rows for shopping that dates back 700 years with the medieval timbered, double level shopping galleries hosting a range of brands.

Shopaholics can get their beauty fixes at the new Harrods H beauty hall that opened in the town last month – the first outpost of the posh brand outside of London.

Or stroll along the two miles of city walls, the most complete Roman and medieval walls in Britain that offer a unique perspective of the town.

A new Ivy Brasserie opens its doors this April and for street food from around the globe, head to the New Chester Market.

– Lisa Minot, Head of Travel

Weston-Super-Mare, North Somerset

When you think of Weston-Super-Mare in Somerset you probably picture the Grand Pier, and that’s with good reason.

The famous attraction is a great day out and doesn’t have to cost much either. You can swap a couple of quid for pennies and get competitive with your family on the slot machines.

If you do want a bit more of an adrenaline rush though, the pier does have other attractions including a 300-metre indoor Glo Kart track, House of Horross and a freefall ride.

After a fun day on the pier, make sure to walk along the two-mile beach and grab an ice cream. 

– Cyann Fielding, Travel Reporter

Sheringham, Norfolk

This sprawling Victorian seaside town is a hit with families visiting the North Norfolk coast, and it’s clear to see why.

Entire days can easily be spent on golden stretches of sand backed by beach huts, with bucket and spade in hand.

But it’s worth pulling yourself away from the shores for a ride on the heritage steam railway, where the pretty Poppy Line runs from Sheringham to Holt.

There’s even an Easter Eggspress egg hunt taking place onboard, costing £26 per adult and £18.20 per child with unlimited rides all day.

Plus theatre fans will love a visit to Sheringham Little Theatre, where family-friendly productions, quiz and bingo nights fill the historic theatre with a lively buzz.

Stroll along to Stevenson’s Fish and Chips to grab a takeaway tea and catch the sunset, and you’ve done a visit to this seaside town right.

– Jenna Stevens, Travel Reporter

Worthing, Sussex

For decades this seaside town on the South coast has been loved for its traditional holiday vibes, from fish and chips to buckets and spades.

But recent years have seen the creative crowd arrive. The town is now a haven for artists inspired by the sea and foodies flock here to sample the produce of local artisan producers and chefs.

The converted beach huts that make up East Beach Studios are now home to tiny, vibrant galleries and workshops for local artists and this year the

Dwell initiative will see 30 artists take over vacant or traditional shopfronts turning the high street into a rotating exhibition space.

Enjoy fine dining at the end of the pier at the Tern restaurant, breakfast on the beach at The Perch and a tipple or two from the local producers including Slake Gin, Merakai Brewing and Titch Hill.

– Lisa Minot, Head of Travel

Welwyn Garden City, Hertfordshire

Sometimes I like a lazy day in my homecounty over a Bank Holiday weekend, and being in Hertfordshire, Welwyn Garden City is a lovely spot for a daytrip.

While it might be lacking in the shop department, apart from its fab John Lewis store, it certainly is thriving when it comes to cafes and restaurants along Howardsgate like Megan’s to Welwyn Coffee Lab, Postino Lounge and the Two Willows.

One of my favourite spots is slightly out of the town. Called Tewingbury Farm, it’s primarily a hotel and wedding venue, but visitors are welcome to pop in anytime.

I particularly rate the oven-fired pizzas which you can tuck into at the Courtyard which has outdoor fires, and games like pool and table tennis.

In classic Easter fashion, it’s lovely to then take a stroll around the ground and farm where you’ll spot plenty of cows and pigs. 

– Alice Penwill, Travel Reporter

Malton, Yorkshire

This North Yorkshire market town doesn’t feel as if it’s aged a day since its time as an agricultural hub in the 19th century.

Today it’s a proper foodie destination. Very friendly traders – this is Yorkshire, after all – flog their delicious goods from market stalls every Saturday. Think hot and steaming sausage rolls, blue cheese chocolate truffles (they’re delicious, I promise) and cannolis seeping sweet ricotta.

There’s live music taking place all Easter weekend at the Brass Castle Taphouse brewery as well as Easter egg hunts for the little ones at the Abbey.

Make sure to visit the glorious Castle Howard while you’re here, a gorgeous Baroque estate that’s home to one of the most spectacular arboretums.

– Sophie Swietochowski, Assistant Travel Editor

Margate, Kent

Margate remains one of the trendiest seaside towns in the UK and, having lived there for a few years, can vouch for it being the perfect day trip.

There’s nothing better than stepping out the train station and seeing the huge sandy beach, overlooked by the multicoloured bars and restaurants.

Pop into the Turner Art Museum for some culture, or the unusual Crab Museum (the only one of its kind in Europe, bizarrely), followed by some of the rides at the free-to-visit theme park Dreamland.

The pretty Old Town is full of shops, ice cream parlours and book shops for some perusing and photo taking.

For the best pizza in town, head to Palm’s Pizzeria for a slice, or go to Bottega Caruso for some fabulous Italian food that was even backed by Madonna, weirdly enough.

– Kara Godfrey, Deputy Travel Editor

Southwold, Suffolk

I’ve been going to Southwold for years, playing games at the arcades on the pier, watching those braver than I go crabbing, and trying to lay down my towel on the beach while the breeze blows against me.

One of the best ways to spend an afternoon is stocking up on food and taking it for a beach picnic.

For drinkers, I’d recommend heading into Adnams Brewery where you can buy some of its locally brewed gin or beer which is an untraditional seaside souvenir, but tasty nonetheless. 

The seaside town has everything you need for a quintessentially British day out, like its line multi-coloured beach huts for pictures and plenty of fish and chip shops.

In my opinion, for the best chippie tea, head to the Sole Bay Fish Company which is out of the town towards the harbour.

– Alice Penwill, Travel Reporter

Totnes, Devon

Historically, Totnes has made the news for feeling like a ‘hippy’ town and more recently, it has been referred to as the ‘New Age capital of the UK’.

This is because the Devonshire town, situated on the River Dart is home to amazing independent shops, a strong eco-conscious spirit and a relaxed lifestyle.

The highstreet is full of cosy coffee shops, quaint bookshops and boutiques ideal for gift hunting.

Do not miss the weekly market on Fridays and Saturdays between 9am and 4pm. You can grab tasty street food and find antique gems.

On one visit I even picked up a phrenology head for a few quid…

– Cyann Fielding, Travel Reporter

Here are some other beautiful Easter breaks to go on this weekend.

Or here are some all-inclusive weekends that are cheaper than a night out with your mates.

SAUNA culture is taking over the UK – and one of the newest openings is the largest of its kind.

Sea Scrub Sauna is the latest addition to the Folkestone coastline, and is the biggest beach sauna in the country.

According to the British Sauna Society, the number of public saunas in the UK has increased 1,200 per cent in the last three years – from 48 in 2023 to more than 600 today.

And as one of the newest, Sea Scrub Sauna is set to be a huge attraction for tourists visiting the seaside town.

Its co-founder, Robin Bartlett, said: “We’re seeing an exciting shift in the UK from exclusive, high-end spa, to more accessible, communal, and ‘wild’ sauna experiences and it’s brilliant to be part of this.

“We can’t wait to welcome new faces and grow a community of sauna enthusiasts in Folkestone, from regular locals to intrepid day trippers and holidaymakers.”

SHELL OUT

Trendy seaside town’s £20m upgrade includes new parks, beach saunas & funiculars

BY THE BEACH

Under-the-radar seaside village that’s now one of the coolest places in the UK

The fourth of its kind by the company – with others in Margate, Whitsable and Faversham – the complex is certainly the fanciest as well.

As I entered the reception, the smell of new wood hit me as I was handed a glass of prosecco.

There’s a full menu of wines and beers (although perhaps save them for after the session to avoid any woozy heads).

Floor to ceiling glass windows meant I had full views of the sea, which on a clear day can sometimes even include seeing France.

What sets this sauna apart is the extra facilities. There’s men’s and women’s changing rooms, a HOT shower, and onsite bathrooms.

But onto the sauna experience.

The site has two saunas to choose from – the 16-person Scandinavian sauna, and the smaller Shepherds Hut Sauna, for up to 10 people.

I recommend the one on the right if visiting in the evenings, for some of the best orange sunsets over the beach.

I settle in on my towel, embracing feeling the warmth after months of the freezing winter.

Ten minutes in, and I’m drenched in sweat. We’re all playing a silent game of chicken to see who can last the longest in here.

I bail out first, sliding off the wooden bench and fleeing for the chilly air.

It’s over to plunge pools in the middle, with the steamy hot tub calling me.

But first, a cold plunge. My breath is taken from me as I slowly lower myself into the 7C tub, focusing on my breathing as I was told.

This is where the health benefits kick in, with everything from improved circulation and reduced muscle aches to better sleep and mood levels.

My overheated skin prickles as it goes from too hot to too cold.

Yet I last barely a minute, much to the enjoyment of my friend who is already submerged.

My relief is loud as I sink into the much warmer pool right next to her, letting my body temperature heat back up again.

And its not just saunas and pools that you can enjoy there too, with experiences such as silent sessions and even Aufguss rituals, a German sauna ceremony with fragranced oil infused water.

I try the latter, and the heat is waved over me with a fan as smells of lemongrass and eucalyptus clear my chest.

After all that, I’m on a high, but ravenous.

And the sauna has you covered there too, with warming bowls of ramen to take the edge off. As well as a second glass of fizz…

Even better, the Harbour Arms is right next door so you can pop over for drinks and dinner there afterwards as well.

It costs £20 for an hour-long session, and can be booked from 8:30am to 8:30pm.

I imagine the early sessions will be popular with sea swimmers, although you can also rent it out for private sessions – perfect for birthdays or hen dos.

Here’s another unusual sauna that has opened in the middle of London.

And a new floating park with a sauna and lido is set to open in the UK.