The 10 Best UK Holiday Destinations for 2026
Trying to find the perfect place to spend your next staycation? If so, then you’ve come to the right...
by Rob Hayes / Travel Tips
Looking to get ahead of the curve by visiting destinations before they’re popular? Then you’re in luck! Highlighted in our most recent Staycation Index, we’ve collated all the best towns and villages to visit in the UK for 2026!
Based on booking data from the past year, this list brings together the most popular UK towns and villages, based on locations with the biggest year-on-year growth. So, if you’re trying to find somewhere new for your next staycation and want a bit of inspiration, then you’ve come to the right place.
Keep scrolling to uncover the best UK towns and villages to visit this year…
Nestled between the Yorkshire Dales and the North York Moors, Boroughbridge has steadily become one of North Yorkshire’s most popular market towns. With bookings up 125% year-on-year it’s shot up to the top of our list of the the best UK towns to visit.
Sitting just off the A1 and only a short drive from Harrogate and York, it’s a fantastic base for exploring both the countryside and the wider county, which also makes it one of the best places to go for dog-friendly UK holidays.
A great choice for couples, walkers and anyone looking to experience traditional Yorkshire charm, Boroughbridge is best known for its historic high street, independent cafés, cosy pubs and easy access to the surrounding countryside. The town also lies close to the River Ure, where visitors can enjoy scenic riverside walks and peaceful afternoons away from the crowds often found in larger tourist hotspots.
One of the area’s most interesting landmarks is the Devil’s Arrows, a series of towering standing stones that date back thousands of years and sit just outside the town. Nearby, you’ll also find the dramatic ruins of Fountains Abbey, one of the largest monastic ruins anywhere in the country, along with the beautiful water gardens at Studley Royal.
For those hoping to explore further afield, Boroughbridge is perfectly placed for day trips across North Yorkshire. The spa town of Harrogate can be found less than a 30-minute drive away, whilst the Yorkshire Dales National Park can easily be reached for picturesque villages, traditional country pubs and some of the best walks in the UK. The historic city of York is also within easy reach, offering everything from ancient streets and museums to its famous Minster and bustling Shambles… the ideal place for a UK city break!
Perched on the edge of the North Norfolk coast, Cromer has long been one of the county’s most popular seaside towns, though in recent years it’s become especially sought-after amongst holidaymakers looking for a more traditional coastal escape.
Known for its sandy beaches, iconic pier and famous Cromer crab, it continues to attract visitors hoping to enjoy the charm of the British seaside without the fast pace of larger resort towns. With a 46% increase in bookings year-on-year, Cromer is a brilliant choice for families, couples and walkers alike.
The town centre is packed full of independent shops, cafés, pubs and seafood restaurants, whilst the long promenade and beach make for perfect places to relax during the warmer months of the year. Towering above the town is Cromer Parish Church, one of Norfolk’s most recognisable landmarks, offering fantastic views across the coastline from its tower.
One of the biggest draws to Cromer is its position along the Norfolk Coast Path, making it a fantastic base for exploring some of the best beaches in Norfolk. The winder coastline is dotted with beautiful villages such as Overstrand, Mundesley and Blakeney which are perfect for those hoping to enjoy quieter beaches and scenic cliff-top walks. Nature lovers will also find plenty to enjoy nearby, including the Norfolk Broads and the region’s famous seal-watching spots around Blakeney Point.
For those wanting to venture further afield, the historic city of Norwich can be reached in around 40 minutes by car, offering a completely different pace with its medieval streets, independent shopping arcades and impressive cathedral. Meanwhile, attractions such as Felbrigg Hall and Sheringham Park provide even more opportunities to experience the beauty of the North Norfolk countryside.
Next on our list of trending UK towns and village is Teignmouth. Set at the mouth of the River Teign, this classic seaside town blends traditional charm with a relaxed, modern feel. With a 36% increase in bookings year-over-year, visitors flock here to enjoy its long seafront, historic pier and easy-going atmosphere.
Home to one of the best beaches in Devon, Teignmouth Beach is split between sand and shingle, making it ideal for everything from sunbathing to paddleboarding, while the town’s well-kept promenade is perfect for leisurely walks with views across the bay. Just behind the seafront, the town centre offers a good mix of independent shops, cafés and pubs, alongside a strong local food scene that makes the most of fresh Devon produce.
With direct rail links, easy access to Dartmoor and to one of the UK’s best walks, the South West Coast Path, Teignmouth appeals to families, couples and walkers alike. It’s a town that offers plenty to do, without losing the relaxed pace that draws people back time and time again.
Found on Cornwall’s south coast between Penzance and Helston, Praa Sands has become an increasingly popular destinations for holidaymakers hoping to enjoy a quieter seaside escape whilst still being close to some of the county’s biggest attractions.
Best known for its long stretch of golden sand and excellent surfing conditions, this coastal village offers a more relaxed alternative to some of Cornwall’s busier resort towns. With this in mind, it’s easy to see why popularity has sky-rocketed, now making it one of the best villages to visit in the UK.
A wonderful choice for beach lovers, walkers and couples searching for a peaceful coastal getaway, Praa Sands is centred around its beautiful beach that draws in visitors throughout the year. During the summer months, the shoreline becomes a hotspot for sunbathing, swimming and watersports, whilst the surrounding cliffs provide fantastic walking opportunities with stunning views across Mount’s Bay and the wider coastline.
One of the biggest reasons behind the village’s growing popularity is its location. Praa Sands sits within easy reach of some of Cornwall’s most famous destinations, making it a brilliant base for exploring the far south west of the county. Just a short drive away is the harbour town of Porthleven, known for its fantastic food scene and picturesque waterfront lined with pubs, cafés and seafood restaurants. The historic town of Marazion is also nearby, where visitors can cross the causeway to the iconic St Michael’s Mount during low tide.
For those hoping to see even more of the region, Praa Sands also offers convenient access to attractions such as Land’s End, the Minack Theatre and the fishing port of Mousehole. Meanwhile, the nearby South West Coast Path provides endless opportunities for scenic coastal walks, making this part of Cornwall especially popular amongst outdoor enthusiasts and photographers alike.
We’re heading to Cardigan Bay for the next entry on our guide to the nicest UK towns and villages to visit. On the west coast of Wales, Aberystwyth has grown into one of the country’s most popular seaside destinations thanks to its unique mix of coastal scenery, Welsh culture and vibrant atmosphere.
Home to a large university population as well as a thriving local community, this historic town is a bustling cultural hub. A fantastic choice for couples, students, walkers and families alike, Aberystwyth is best known for its sweeping promenade and Victorian pier that stretches out into the bay. Backed by colourful seafront buildings and surrounded by rolling hills, it’s a wonderful place to spend time relaxing by the coast whilst enjoying the slower pace of life that Mid Wales is famous for.
One of this trending town’s standout landmarks is the ruins of Aberystwyth Castle, perched beside the seafront and offering impressive views across the coastline. Visitors can also take a ride on the historic Cliff Railway to the summit of Constitution Hill, where panoramic views over Cardigan Bay await. Meanwhile, the National Library of Wales and Aberystwyth Arts Centre help give the town its strong cultural reputation.
Its location also makes Aberystwyth an excellent base for exploring the wider region. The nearby Cambrian Mountains provide endless opportunities for walking and cycling, whilst the picturesque harbour town of Aberaeron sits less than an hour away along the coast. Nature lovers may also want to visit Ynyslas National Nature Reserve, home to vast sand dunes and one of the best beaches in Wales. However, further south, you’ll find even more beautiful beaches and hidden coves nestled along Cardigan Bay, where visitors come looking to uncover more of Wales’ stunning coastline.
Tucked away on the edge of the Glaslyn Estuary near Porthmadog, Borth-y-Gest has quietly become one of North Wales’ one of the best UK villages to visit for those hoping to escape the crowds and enjoy a slower pace of life.
Surrounded by woodland, sheltered coves and stunning sea views, this picturesque village offers a peaceful alternative to some of the region’s busier seaside destinations. Particularly popular with couples, walkers and outdoor enthusiasts, Borth-y-Gest is best known for its tranquil atmosphere and beautiful waterfront, including one of the best beaches in North Wales.
The village itself is centred around a small harbour where colourful boats bob on the estuary, whilst the coastline is dotted with hidden sandy coves that can be reached by scenic footpaths winding through the trees. It’s the sort of place where visitors can spend hours simply soaking up the scenery.
Its location also makes it an excellent base for exploring the wider area. Just a short drive away is the bustling harbour town of Porthmadog, home to independent shops, cafés and the famous Ffestiniog & Welsh Highland Railways. The bucket-list attraction Portmeirion is also nearby, attracting visitors from across the UK thanks to its colourful architecture and beautiful gardens that overlook the coast.
For those hoping to enjoy the outdoors, Borth-y-Gest sits within easy reach of Eryri National Park (Snowdonia), where you’ll find countless walking trails, mountain scenery and picturesque villages waiting to be explored. Nearby beaches such as Black Rock Sands and Criccieth Beach, known for being amongst some of the best dog-friendly UK beaches, also make this corner of Gwynedd especially appealing during the warmer months of the year.
Often referred to as the “Gateway to the Isles”, Oban, the next entry on our trending towns and villages guide, has become one of Scotland’s most popular towns. With stunning harbour views, fresh seafood and easy access to the Inner Hebrides, it’s clear why its popularity among our customer has increased.
Found on the country’s dramatic west coast, this bustling harbour town blends traditional Scottish charm with incredible scenery, making it a favourite amongst visitors hoping to experience the Highlands and islands in one trip.
A brilliant choice for couples, walkers and adventure seekers, Oban is centred around its picturesque waterfront where ferries regularly depart for Scottish islands such as Mull, Coll and Tiree. The town itself is packed full of seafood restaurants, whisky bars and independent shops, whilst landmarks like McCaig’s Tower overlook the bay and provide fantastic panoramic views across the coastline and surrounding hills.
One of the biggest reasons behind Oban’s growing popularity is the sheer amount there is to see and do nearby. Wildlife boat tours are especially popular here, giving visitors the chance to spot dolphins, seals and even whales off the west coast. History lovers can also visit nearby attractions such as Dunollie Castle and Dunstaffnage Castle, both of which offer fascinating insight into the region’s past.
For those hoping to explore further afield, Oban makes for an excellent base for discovering the wider Highlands. Scenic drives through Glencoe and along Loch Awe are both within easy reach, whilst ferry connections open up endless opportunities to explore Scotland’s rugged islands and coastal landscapes. Whether you’re hoping to spend your time hiking, island hopping or simply relaxing by the harbour, it’s easy to see why Oban continues to grow in popularity year after year.
Stretching along the edge of St Ives Bay on Cornwall’s north coast, Hayle has become one of the county’s fastest-growing holiday destinations thanks to its beautiful beaches, laid-back atmosphere and excellent location.
Once best known as an industrial harbour town, Hayle has transformed over recent years into a popular coastal hotspot that still manages to retain plenty of local charm and character.
A fantastic choice for families, surfers and beach lovers, Hayle is home to miles of golden sands that attract visitors from all over the country throughout the year. Beaches such as Gwithian Towans and Hayle Beach are especially popular during the summer months, offering fantastic conditions for swimming, surfing and long coastal walks. Backing the coastline is a vast network of dunes and nature reserves, making the area equally appealing for walkers and wildlife enthusiasts.
One of the reasons Hayle continues to grow in popularity is its position on the edge of some of Cornwall’s biggest attractions. One of the UK’s most popular holiday destinations St Ives sits less than 20 minutes away, known for its bustling harbour, art galleries and beautiful beaches. Meanwhile, attractions such as St Michael’s Mount, the Tate St Ives and Paradise Park are all within easy reach for memorable day trips.
For those hoping to explore further afield, Hayle also provides convenient access to some of the county’s most dramatic coastal scenery. The South West Coast Path passes nearby, offering spectacular walking routes towards Godrevy Lighthouse and along the rugged north coast. Whether you’re hoping to spend your time relaxing on the sand, exploring Cornwall’s coastline or uncovering charming seaside towns, Hayle makes for a brilliant base to experience it all.
Taking the penultimate spot in our list of trending UK towns and villages is St Agnes! Perched along Cornwall’s rugged north coast between Perranporth and Portreath, St Agnes has steadily grown into one of the county’s best villages for visitors hoping to enjoy a mix of coastal scenery, surfing culture and countryside charm.
Despite its growth year-on-year, the village is still somewhat of a hidden gem, having managed to retain its laid-back atmosphere, making it especially appealing for those wanting a quieter Cornish escape. A brilliant choice for walkers, couples and beachgoers, St Agnes is best known for its dramatic cliffs, winding coastal paths and excellent beaches. Trevaunance Cove sits at the heart of the village and is a popular spot for wild swimming in Cornwall as well as surfing, whilst the surrounding coastline provides some of the most impressive walking routes anywhere in Cornwall.
The area also carries a rich mining heritage, with old engine houses and former mining sites still scattered across the cliffs as reminders of the region’s past. One of the biggest draws to St Agnes is its fantastic position along the north coast. The village sits within easy reach of some of Cornwall’s most popular destinations, including Newquay and Perranporth, whilst still feeling tucked away from the busier tourist hotspots during much of the year. Food lovers will also find plenty to enjoy here, with independent cafés, traditional pubs and well-regarded restaurants dotted throughout the village.
For those hoping to explore more of the region, the nearby St Agnes Heritage Coast offers endless opportunities for scenic walks and hidden coves waiting to be uncovered. Attractions such as Healeys Cornish Cyder Farm and the Eden Project can also be reached within a reasonable drive, whilst the cathedral city of Truro sits nearby for shopping, dining and historic landmarks. Whether you’re after coastal adventures or a relaxing seaside break, it’s easy to see why St Agnes continues to rise in popularity.
Nestled in the heart of Eryri National Park (Snowdonia), Beddgelert has become one of North Wales’ most popular villages for those hoping to experience dramatic mountain scenery and traditional Welsh charm in equal measure. Surrounded by forests, rivers and towering peaks, this picturesque village attracts visitors throughout the year looking to enjoy the quieter side of the national park.
A fantastic choice for walkers, couples and outdoor enthusiasts, Beddgelert is best known for its stunning natural surroundings and peaceful atmosphere. The village itself is centred around the meeting point of the Rivers Glaslyn and Colwyn, with traditional stone cottages, cosy pubs and small independent cafés lining its streets. Its scenic setting makes it one of the most photographed villages anywhere in North Wales.
One of the area’s most famous attractions is Gelert’s Grave, linked to the legendary tale of Prince Llywelyn and his faithful hound, which has become deeply tied to the village’s identity over the years. Visitors can also enjoy riverside walks directly from the village, whilst nearby woodland trails and mountain routes offer endless opportunities to explore the surrounding landscape.
Beddgelert’s location also makes it an excellent base for discovering the wider region. The summit of Yr Wyddfa (Mount Snowdon) sits within easy reach, whilst the nearby village of Betws-y-Coed continues to attract visitors with its outdoor shops, waterfalls and scenic walking trails. The Welsh Highland Railway also passes through Beddgelert, offering spectacular journeys through the mountains towards Porthmadog and Caernarfon.
For those hoping to combine countryside adventures with coastal scenery, the beaches and harbour towns of the Llyn Peninsula can also be reached within a short drive, making Beddgelert a brilliant place to experience some of the very best landscapes North Wales has to offer.
The trending locations in this article were identified in the 2026 Sykes Staycation Index through analysis of internal booking data which highlighted the locations with the biggest year-on-year growth.
If our guide to the UK’s best towns and villages has inspired you, find even more amazing places to book for your next break in this article covering the UK’s least visited regions, or make your next getaway a truly memorable one by taking a culturalcation!
by Rob Hayes / Travel Tips
I'm Rob and I joined the Sykes team in February 2024. I am a passionate writer and have always enjoyed holidays in the UK, especia...
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