Cornwall has been revealed as the best UK destination for foodies, as research found the average Brit is willing to travel 70 miles to try a particular cuisine or eatery
Research has unveiled the top UK destinations for food lovers, with fish and chips being a major attraction. It turns out that Brits are willing to travel miles to sample a specific cuisine or restaurant – with one in ten ready to travel more than 150 to satisfy their taste buds.
The study revealed a fifth of Brits’ holiday enjoyment is heavily influenced by their meals, and many have rebooked a destination solely to revisit a favourite restaurant. The main reasons for visiting these foodie hotspots include trying local delicacies, dining at a particular restaurant, or having the chance to purchase local ingredients.
Traditional British pubs remain a top choice, followed by independent local restaurants and fish and chip shops. Meanwhile, farm shops and street vendors are gaining popularity.
This research was conducted by Sykes Holiday Cottages as part of its annual Staycation Index report, which highlighted just what Brits are looking for in a staycation.
When it comes to the top food destinations, the survey of 2,000 adults revealed that Cornwall claimed the top three spots on a list of 30, with St Ives ranked first, followed by Padstow in second place and Falmouth in third.
These leading destinations were closely followed by Brixham, Devon’s scenic coastal haven, and Great Yarmouth, Norfolk’s beloved seaside retreat. Blackpool, often referred to as Britain’s ‘Las Vegas of the North,’ also made the list.
Dorset made a notable appearance with three towns in the top 30 foodie destinations, attracting visitors to its culinary delights in Bournemouth, Lyme Regis, and Weymouth.
Speaking about the trend, James Shaw, managing director of Sykes Holiday Cottages, commented: “Food is an essential part of the staycation experience. People are increasingly planning their holidays with their palates in mind – and that’s great for local businesses across the UK.”
Nearly two-thirds of people are planning for a UK-based getaway this year. City jaunts, lakes and mountain escapes, and beachfront getaways are set to be the go-to choices. And there’s no shortage of activities to enjoy, from countryside strolls to exploring historical sites.
Opting for a staycation is seen as less stressful, more affordable and easier than jetting off abroad, according to the study.
Moreover, whilst the majority of people tend to holiday with friends or family, staycations have become more popular with solo travellers as one in three reported they’re more likely to embark on a solo trip now compared to five years ago.
James commented: “Our annual report takes a deep dive into the latest UK travel trends, and it’s clear that staycations are continuing to grow in popularity – something that’s welcome news to the communities across the country that rely on tourism.
“Now in its seventh year, the index shines a light on the evolving habits and motivations shaping domestic travel – from an apparent Gen Z UK travel boom to a rise in solo staycations and a focus on food while away.
“Brits are seeking more meaningful escapes and fresh adventures, all without needing a passport.”
TOP 30 UK LOCATIONS FOR FOOD:
- St Ives, Cornwall
- Padstow, Cornwall
- Falmouth, Cornwall
- Brixham, Devon
- Blackpool, Lancashire
- Bournemouth, Dorset
- Great Yarmouth, Norfolk
- Whitley Bay, Tyne and Wear
- Lyme Regis, Dorset
- Weymouth, Dorset
- St Andrews, Fife
- Windsor, Berkshire
- Dumfries, Dumfries and Galloway
- Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk
- Barnstaple, Devon
- Barnard Castle, County Durham
- Warwick, Warwickshire
- Margate, Kent
- Folkstone, Kent
- Tenby, Pembrokeshire
- Alnwick, Northumberland
- Hebden Bridge, West Yorkshire
- Llandudno, Conwy
- Broadstairs, Kent
- Southport, Merseyside
- Loughborough, Leicestershire
- Rochester, Kent
- Formby, Merseyside
- Hereford, Herefordshire
- Carmarthen, Carmarthenshire