Yorkshire and Cornwall top list of UK staycation destinations for 2023

Yorkshire has beaten Cornwall and the Scottish Highlands to be named the most desirable UK tourist destination for 2023. A poll of 2,000 adults revealed the favourite destinations on people’s holiday lists, after 50 percent said they plan to take a staycation this year rather than jetting abroad, due to the cost-of-living crisis.

Yorkshire was named the most popular place this year, thanks to its picturesque coastal towns and rolling dales.

Cornwall, the Scottish Highlands, Cumbria, and Northumberland followed close behind as sought-after destinations to visit in the UK.

It also seems the lesser-known locations are priorities for 47 percent, who plan to visit places outside of tourist hotspots – including Norfolk, Ayrshire, and Kent.

Reasons for this include lower price points (53 percent), wanting to be more flexible when booking meals (29 percent) – and avoiding over-crowded areas (65 percent).

When it comes to the style of staycation, a countryside B&B appeals to 30 percent, while 28 percent are looking to visit lakes and mountains.

The research, commissioned by Sykes Holiday Cottages following the launch of its annual Staycation Index Report, also found nearby beaches, decent Wi-Fi, and plenty of outdoor space, are among the top things people look for when renting a holiday home.

Graham Donoghue, chief executive, said: “With holiday season almost upon us, travellers are starting to make plans for the year ahead, if they haven’t already.

“It’s great to see staycations remain a popular choice for many – and with financial pressures significantly impacting holidaymakers’ travel choices, it’s no surprise that holidaying closer to home can be a more affordable option.

“The UK has so much to offer, and there are so many beautiful regions to visit that mean you don’t have to compromise on your holiday experience.

“From award-winning beaches to stunning countryside and city breaks, there are also plenty of hidden gems to be found in our home country.”

The study also found 52 percent can’t see themselves booking a trip abroad this year due to pressures on their budget.

As a result, half are more likely to book a staycation instead – with those who plan to go away looking to take an average of three trips in total.

And 42 percent predict they will book a last-minute UK break in the hope of getting a good offer, thanks to the increased cost-of-living.

A further 52 percent plan on choosing their holiday in advance because of this very reason.

More than a third (37 percent) will be taking lots of shorter trips this year to balance their travel costs throughout the year.

But 51 percent will likely go on fewer breaks due to financial pressures, with 56 percent preparing to be more budget-conscious while they are away.

According to the OnePoll study, 43 percent of those who plan to take a holiday will be having their main one on home soil, with the predicted average spend totalling £1,200.

When it comes to budgeting, 30 percent of this amount will go towards accommodation, while 16 percent will be allocated to travel.

And 13 percent will be set aside for eating out – with just nine percent assigning money to activities.

Exactly a third plan to go back to basics – in the form of camping or glamping – to save money, while 54 percent will choose self-catering accommodation as a cheaper way of holidaying.

Graham Donoghue, for Sykes Holiday Cottages, added: “While the cost of living will be having a huge impact on the majority of people’s holiday plans this year, our research shows holidaymakers are opting for multiple shorter, well-deserved breaks nearer to home, without compromising on their holiday experience.”