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UK: Sykes Holiday Cottages has reported that bookings made in January are up nine per cent year-on-year, signalling strong demand for planning UK breaks well ahead of the peak travel season.
Sykes says short breaks are proving particularly popular, with travellers opting for flexible weekend and midweek stays rather than longer trips abroad. Sykes also expects to accommodate “more dogs than children in 2026 as pet-friendly properties continue to perform well”.
Forward bookings data from Sykes also reveals the most popular locations travellers are booking this month, with North Wales currently the most in-demand destination for 2026 based on overall bookings.
The Lake District and Cornwall are also emerging as early favourites for trips this year, while North Yorkshire and the Peak District round out the top five.
James Shaw, chief commercial officer at Sykes Holiday Cottages, said: “We’re seeing unprecedented levels of demand for UK holidays at this early stage of the year – showing that staycations are firmly on the agenda for British holidaymakers. People are planning ahead, locking in value and choosing destinations closer to home that still offer memorable experiences. All the signs point to 2026 being one of the strongest years for domestic tourism we’ve ever seen.”
Highlights:
- Sykes Holiday Cottages has reported that bookings made in January are up nine per cent year-on-year, signalling strong demand for planning UK breaks well ahead of the peak travel season
- Sykes says short breaks are proving particularly popular, with travellers opting for flexible weekend and midweek stays rather than longer trips abroad
- North Wales, the Lake District, Cornwall, North Yorkshire and the Peak District are the top five most popular destinations
