‘Must-see’ UK coastal city is this summer’s staycation hotspot

An underrated and “quirky” coastal city has fast become one of Britain’s most sought after staycation destinations.

Plymouth, on Devon’s coast, saw one of the biggest rises in hotel bookings, according to Colliers Hotels & Resorts index.

Siddhika Shah, associate director in the consulting department at Colliers, said Plymouth had “benefitted in recent years from the staycation boom”.

While the coastal city has plenty of attractions to occupy tourists, it’s also a great option for tourists who want to explore the wider region.

Accommodation in Plymouth is generally cheaper than in some of Devon and Cornwall’s busiest tourist towns but visitors will be able to reach them quickly by car or train.

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Plymouth was also recently named one of the world’s most underrated travel destinations by Time Out.

The travel team said the city was an “idyllic weekend away, right on the stunning Devon coast” and holidaymakers would likely have it all to themselves.

One of the city’s top destinations is the Barbican, Plymouth’s Old Port, which is packed with restaurants and shops.

A tourist ‘Dee Dee’ wrote: “Quirky and a must see. The Barbican has changed so much over the years, but managed to keep its charm.”

The city also has one of the UK’s most spectacular lidos. The Tinside Lido is art deco style and has breathtaking views of the Devon coast.

Tourists can also go for a walk along the Hoe to enjoy views of the sea under the city’s famous lighthouse.

Visitors can also take a tour of the Plymouth Gin Distillery and try some of the city’s special blend.

The National Marine Aquarium is a great day out for families while the city is just a short trip from beaches.

Glasgow was another UK destination that had seen a huge rise in hotel bookings, perhaps partly due to COP26.