See more Daily Mail on Google - save us as a Preferred SourceBy GRACE BANNISTER FOR YOU MAGAZINE Updated: 14:51 BST, 26 June 2026
Staycations are a great choice for anyone looking to make the most of the UK’s stunning scenery, rich history and charming towns this summer. Whether you’re after a traditional seaside escape, a countryside retreat or a city break packed with culture, there’s no shortage of destinations to explore without leaving the country.And it seems more Brits are opting to holiday closer to home, with domestic tourism continuing to boom. Around 45% of Brits are expected to take a UK holiday this summer, as travellers look for affordable breaks that still offer plenty to see and do.From classic seaside resorts to historic market towns, Expedia has revealed the UK's trending summer destinations based on the biggest increase in searches on its platform. The list highlights a mix of hidden gems and well-loved favourites that are capturing holidaymakers' attention this year.1. Bishop’s Stortford, Hertfordshire Bishop’s Stortford, Hertfordshire Topping Expedia’s list with a 90% increase in searches is a Bishop’s Stortford. This historic market town in Hertfordshire offers holidaying Brits scenic walking routes along its riversides and countryside. The town also boasts Waytemore Castle, a Norman castle, as well as markets on Sundays and Saturdays. And with a local brewery and vineyard, it’s no surprise that Bishop’s Stortford is at the top of the list.2. Sudbury, Suffolk Sudbury, Suffolk Next up is Sudbury, another historic market town this time located in the Stour Valley, an Area of Outstanding National Beauty. With a range of independent shops, hotels and theatres nestled within the scenic countryside, its got everything you need for a perfect British staycation.3. Reading, Berkshire Reading, Berkshire Beyond its annual festival that attracts over 90,000 attendees and stars including Charli XCX and Florence & The Machine, Reading offers visitors riverside walks and easy access in and out of London.4. Tenby, Pembrokeshire Tenby, Pembrokeshire With its postcard views and cute coloured houses, Tenby is one of Wales's top seaside towns. It has a sandy beach located within its harbour walls as well as independent shops and scenic views out onto the Welsh coast.5. Paisley, Renfrewshire Paisley, Renfrewshire Named Town of the Year in 2025, Paisley is a gorgeous town located in the Scottish Lowlands, west of Glasgow. Paisley has a historic Abbey and county parks making it perfect if you’re looking for a UK staycation perfect for you and your four-legged friend.6. Glasgow Glasgow Great for its nightlife, museums and live music, Glasgow is a beautiful town steeped in history and culture. It's also home to Pollok Country Park, a city centre’s oasis and the answer to a perfect summer picnic spot.7. Nottinghamshire Nottinghamshire Up north this time, Nottinghamshire is packed with history from castles to country houses including Nottingham Castle and Wollaton Hall. The county Robin Hood’s own Sherwood Forest as well as The City of Caves for visitors who might like to explore Nottingham’s underground network of over 800 caves.8. Scarborough, North Yorkshire Scarborough, North Yorkshire Scarborough is a classic British seaside resort that promises sea and sand (the sun is not guaranteed here, however). This coastal town has everything from stunning beaches along the Yorkshire East Coast to ghost walks, an open-air theatre and even a waterpark. 9. Harrogate, North Yorkshire Harrogate, North Yorkshire Harrogate is North Yorkshire’s second staycation hotspot according to Expedia. This beautiful spa town is famous for its Turkish thermal baths and quaint tearooms. The town is also home to the Valley Gardens, a gorgeous park home to an artisan market the first Sunday of each month.10. Canterbury, Kent Canterbury, Kent Last up is Canterbury in Kent. With a beautiful cathedral at its town centre (which might be familiar to fans of Harry Potter), tourists can also expect scenic views along the River Stour and Westgate Gardens.
