A study conducted by VisitEngland and reported in Norfolk and Suffolk’s regional newspaper, the Eastern Daily Press, suggests that memories of the glorious summer of 2013, where temperatures hit 34C, is one of the main reasons why people are encouraged to keep their tourist activities confined to the UK this upcoming summer. Naomi Tarry, director of Best of Suffolk, a Suffolk cottages holiday lettings agency reported a record day of bookings earlier in January, reflecting the popularity of ‘staycations’ in 2014.
So where are the best locations to take a ‘staycation’ in the UK?
Cornwall
Cornwall is usually one of the main beneficiaries of the British summer with its various beaches and vast coastline making it one of the most glorious locations. It’s also home to the famous Cornish pasty, a succulent mix of pastry, beef, swede, onions and potato.
Cornwall is also home to the World Bellyboard Championships and the Eden Project – the largest rainforest in captivity, which is open all year round.
Lake District
The Lake District has over 3.5 kilometres available to tourists to walk or cycle around to their heart’s content. With 12 lakes, the opportunity to hire a boat should not be missed, with Windmere and Derwentwater offering up some breathtaking views and experiences.
Scottish Highlands
Though capital city Edinburgh can provide a luxurious city break, the Scottish Highlands are home to some Mediterranean-esque beaches such as Seilebost Beach in the Outer Hebrides and Achmelvich Beach. On the other hand, for the mountaineers among you, the Scottish Highlands is also home to Ben Nevis in the Lochaber area. Standing at 4,409ft above sea level, Ben Nevis is the highest mountain in the UK.
Wales
Wales may be small but is also home to picturesque mountain ranges and deep valleys. Conwy and Aberystwyth are traditional Welsh towns and it’s also worth taking a walk along the Pembrokeshire coast path to witness Wales’ finest coastal scenery.
London
With all the iconic attractions such as the London Eye, Houses of Parliament and Buckingham Palace in the capital city, London is the perfect city break for couples or families. There’s always something free to do which can counter the cost of accommodation and a lovely walk on Hampstead Heath can take you away from the hustle and bustle of the city.
‘Staycations’ have become popular ever since the start of the economic downturn, but for local tourism, the recession has been an eye-opener and ushered in a new, cheaper way to travel.
