Sykes report names Yorkshire as top UK staycation destination

UK: Yorkshire has been announced as the top UK holiday hotspot for 2023 in Sykes Holiday Cottages’ latest Staycation Index report.

Cornwall and the Scottish Highlands and Islands came second and third in the list, followed by Cumbria and Northumberland in the top five. Lesser-visited locations such as Berkshire and the Isle of Wight also appeared in the holiday letting agency’s top ten ranking, alongside destinations such as Devon.

Top 20 UK staycation destinations for 2023:

In a poll of 2,000 UK adults commissioned for the report, Sykes found that 75 per cent of Brits plan to book a staycation this year over trips abroad, with 50 per cent attributing the decision to the cost-of-living crisis.

On average, Brits will take three UK breaks in 2023, with other reasons for opting to stay home over travelling abroad including the rediscovered love of a staycation in recent years as well as the ease of travelling closer to home.

Graham Donoghue, chief executive of Sykes Holiday Cottages, said: “With holiday season almost upon us, travellers are starting to make plans for the year ahead if they haven’t already. And with financial pressures significantly impacting holidaymakers’ travel choices, it’s no surprise that holidaying closer to home remains a popular choice for many.

“The UK has so much to offer and there are so many beautiful regions to visit that mean you don’t have to compromise on your holiday experience. From award-winning beaches to stunning countryside and city breaks, there are also plenty of hidden gems to be found in our home country,” he added.

The study also found that 52 per cent of those surveyed cannot see themselves booking a trip abroad this year due to a tight budget. As a result, 42 per cent predict they will book a last-minute UK break in hopes of good offers, while 37 per cent will be taking shorter trips this year to balance travel costs.

When it comes to the style of staycation, a countryside B&B appeals to 30 per cent of participants, while 28 per cent are looking to visit lakes and mountains. The research report also found that nearby beaches, strong wifi and plenty of outdoor space were among the top things people look for when renting a holiday home.

Donoghue added: “While the cost of living will be having a huge impact on the majority of people’s holiday plans this year, our research shows holidaymakers are opting for multiple shorter well-deserved breaks nearer to home without compromising on their holiday experience.”

In March, Sykes unveiled a 30-second advert features different groups of travellers – including family, couples, friends, and pet owners – preparing for and experiencing a UK break. 

View the Staycation Index report in full here.