The stunning Yorkshire town of Whitby has been named the UK’s most popular staycation destination – and it’s easy to see why
Staycations are all the rage these days, with a surge in Brits choosing to holiday at home rather than venturing overseas. A recent survey has revealed that a whopping 63% of Britons are planning a UK-based break this year, and by 2025, the average holidaymaker is expected to enjoy three domestic getaways, each spanning roughly six days.
Sykes Holiday Cottages has put together a list of the top ten staycation spots, crowning the picturesque Yorkshire town of Whitby as the number one choice. The charm of this northern gem has tourists raving, with one visitor recently describing Whitby as “absolutely magical” on TripAdvisor.
It’s no wonder Whitby has emerged as Sykes’s most booked destination for the fast-approaching school summer holidays.
Whitby boasts an array of attractions suitable for the whole family, including the Whitby Museum, brimming with fascinating collections from fossils to maritime memorabilia, and the awe-inspiring historic abbey that sparked Bram Stoker’s imagination for his novel Dracula.
Additional highlights include the Whitby Marine Discovery Centre, the Captain Cook Memorial Museum, and the enchanting Falling Foss Tea Garden and Waterfall, reports the Express.
Not to mention, Whitby is dotted with beautiful sandy stretches such as Whitby Beach, Sandsend Beach, and Saltwick Bay Beach.
These beaches are a haven for dogs, offering either full access or dedicated dog-friendly zones even during the height of summer, ensuring your pooch can also bask in the charm of this picturesque town.
James Shaw, managing director of Sykes Holiday Cottages, commented: “It’s no surprise to see Whitby leading the way for school summer holidays this year.
“It’s mix of natural beauty, rich history and family-friendly activities continues to draw visitors, both with and without children, from across the country.
“We’re seeing more families prioritise stress-free getaways that cater to all ages – whether that means scenic coastlines, charming local towns or easy access to the great outdoors.
“The destinations featured in the top 10 strike the right balance between convenience and character, making them ideal for switching off, reconnecting, and creating lasting memories together.”
Following closely behind Whitby is Windermere in the Lake District, securing second place, while Weymouth on the Dorset coast clinched third. Both locations are renowned for their outdoor pursuits, vibrant town centres, and an array of walking paths.
Top 10 most popular locations for the school summer holidays
- Whitby, North Yorkshire
- Windermere, Cumbria
- Weymouth, Dorset
- Ambleside, Cumbria
- Lyme Regis, Dorset
- Keswick, Cumbria
- Scarborough, North Yorkshire
- Dartmouth, Devon
- Salcombe, Devon
- Carbis Bay, Cornwall