Stunning UK town is named most affordable for weekend break – and it’s perfect for autumn

A recent study by credit card brand Aqua analysed various factors such as accommodation costs, search interest, and climate conditions – and one seaside resort came out on top

As the leaves turn and Brits search for wallet-friendly travel options, staycations are winning hearts as the go-to choice over costly trips abroad this year.

The UK has so much to offer from city breaks like Edinburgh to beach breaks in Cornwall, and if you plan it right a staycation can be just as good as a holiday abroad. Credit card company Aqua’s study has sifted through a mix of factors: costs for digs, online buzz and weather patterns, highlighting one seaside gem above all.

Snatching the crown from contenders Blackpool and Portsmouth, Torquay reigns supreme for a thrifty weekend away—with a price tag of just £74 for two. Autumn spells out a sweet spot for Torquay-goers, where mellow climes perfectly pair with less bustle, making it prime time for some alfresco exploration.

Those who fancy a stroll can hit up the scenic South West Coast Path, breathing in both sea breeze and sweeping vistas. For nature buffs, this season is ripe for bird watching and enjoying wildlife in a more serene scene.

READ MORE: ‘I thought this British beach was overhyped but it’s even more beautiful in real life’

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The Devon coast is is one of the top staycation destinations for Brits, with thousands of tourists holidaying in the likes of Torquay each summer. The coastal town or Torquay specifically has an average summer temperatures of 21C highs, is home to picturesque beaches and quaint surrounding villages.

Torquay boasts numerous tourist attractions, including Kents Cavern, and Britain’s most important Stone Age site. Despite struggles over the years to transform its image with locals, Torquay has been dubbed ‘British Turkey’. Torquay is known for awesome beaches such as Babbacombe and cliffside Oddicombe and the bustling Torquay Harbour near the town centre offers shops, cafes and a marina.

With its iconic palm trees, busy harbour, international marina, sandy beach and huge selection of continental cafes, restaurants and cocktail bars, it’s unsurprising that rich Brits are snapping up second homes in the area, while tens of thousands of Brits continue to visit the town each summer.

Amidst the area’s charm, TripAdvisor reviews spill the beans on its allure. Arabinda-Ghosh was charmed: “A beautiful small place where every spot is welcoming and you will feel relaxed and cool.”

They added: “A whole day spending is not enough to quench the thirst for peace and beauty,” reports the Express.

“I found Happy faces everywhere and there is family get-together like feeling. An ideal place for relaxation with nice food and drink.”

About the harbour, Ann M shared: “Just love this area. Loads of quality pubs, restaurants, nightlife, most being fairly priced. It’s lovely to just sit outside one of the bars and watch the world go by. Very relaxing, whatever the weather.”

Annie chimed in with: “We had a walk around the harbour and watched the boats for a while. Peaceful and beautiful views. Clean and tidy harbour, we found it very relaxing.”