Discover the Top UK Staycation Destinations for 2024: Newquay Tops the List!

Newquay: The Premier UK Holiday Hotspot

The UK is renowned for its stunning cities, charming towns, and beautiful regions, making it a top destination for staycations. Recent research by GO Outdoors reveals that Newquay has clinched the top spot as the best overall UK holiday hotspot for 2024.

Newquay, located on the north coast of Cornwall, boasts an impressive holiday score of 9.72 out of 10. This picturesque town is famed for its sandy beaches and the Atlantic Ocean’s scenic shoreline. Newquay offers a plethora of attractions, including Newquay Zoo, Lane Theatre, and numerous dog-friendly beaches such as Fistral Beach and Holywell Bay Beach. With 27.2 activities per square kilometre and an average annual temperature of 11.4ºC, rising to 16ºC in the summer, it’s an ideal destination for beach enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.

Social media users have widely embraced Newquay, with 1,510 posts tagged #newquaystaycation and #newquayholiday on Instagram and TikTok, showcasing its stunning beaches and coastline. Additionally, 74.7% of hotels in Newquay, such as the White House Hotel and Lewinnick Lodge, are highly rated by visitors.

Scarborough: A Coastal Gem in North Yorkshire

Coming in second place with a holiday score of 9.48 out of 10 is Scarborough, situated along the North Sea coast in North Yorkshire. Scarborough is celebrated for its affordability, with the lowest average price for a value hotel at around £65 per night. Notable accommodations include The Black Swan Hotel, which offers express check-ins and free Wi-Fi, and luxury options like Weston Hotel and Wrea Head Hall, which provide a Victorian manor-esque experience.

Scarborough garnered 25,180 searches for getaways between April 2023 and March 2024, featuring an average annual rainfall of 42.7mm. The town boasts 604 combined hashtagged posts on TikTok and Instagram, highlighting its beach and the medieval Scarborough Castle. Visitors can enjoy various attractions, such as Peasholme Park, the Sea Life Scarborough aquarium, and the Rotunda Museum, with 12.2 activities per square kilometre ensuring plenty of entertainment options.

Canterbury: Historical and Family-Friendly

Ranked third with a holiday score of 9.07 out of 10 is Canterbury, a UNESCO World Heritage Site located along the River Stour in Kent. Canterbury stands out for its historical significance and family-friendly atmosphere, scoring 9.51 out of 10 as the UK’s best holiday hotspot for families. The city features 25.8 nature and wildlife areas per 50 square kilometres and 22.3% tree coverage.

Canterbury offers a rich array of activities, including visits to St. Augustine’s Abbey and Westgate Gardens. The city also benefits from the lowest average annual rainfall at 40.1mm and the cheapest average starting taxi tariff at £2.60. The average annual temperature is 10.7ºC, rising to 16.3ºC in summer, with Herne Bay Beach a short drive away.

Additional Highlights

The research by GO Outdoors also highlights Cornwall as the top region for camping holidays in the UK, boasting 273 campsites, including The Old Stables Campsite with its proximity to Godrevy Beach and convenient facilities.

For a detailed look at the research and rankings, visit GO Outdoors’ blog.

Whether you’re planning a beach getaway, a historical exploration, or a family adventure, the UK offers diverse and exciting staycation options for 2024.