Summer holidays may be over, but that doesn’t mean trips are now off the table.
And it seems people are looking to stay a little closer to home over the coming months, as new research from Tripadvisor shows 62% of Brits are planning to travel in the UK this autumn.
Staycations have been on the rise since the pandemic began – with more and more people falling love with the beauty of the UK countryside.
However, individuals are now turning their attention to the hustle and bustle of UK cities – as busy spots around England, Wales, Ireland and Scotland dominate Tripadvisor’s list of top autumn destinations.
Younger generations are particularly eager to book a UK staycation, as the travel site’s latest Travel Index shows that Gen Z are keen to travel in the next few months – with 36% saying they are planning three or more trips.
They also aren’t afraid to splash out on these breaks. Research shows a third of millennials (33%) and just over a third of Gen Z (37%) said they intend to spend more on their autumn trips than they did before the pandemic, in 2019.
So if you fancy a break over the coming weeks, these are the top UK staycation destinations for the season:
1. Cardiff, South Glamorgan, Wales
The Welsh capital city tops the list. The mix of old and new, from Cardiff Castle to the Wales Millennium Centre, makes for a lovely city skyline.
For those who love a hike, it’s also just an hour’s drive from the famous Four Waterfalls Valley
2. Belfast, County Antrim, Northern Ireland
From the bustling nightlife to its rich history, there’s a lot Belfast has to offer. It’s also a top choice for Game of Thrones fans – as the spot (along with other rural places in Northern Ireland) is where the hit TV show was filmed.
3. London, England
From top-notch restaurants and lively bars to beautiful parks and famous landmarks, there’s plenty to soak up in the capital city.
4. Portrush, County Antrim, Northern Ireland
This little resort town on the Antrim Coast boasts breathtaking views. While Portrus may be known for its surfing centres and prestigious golf clubs in summer, there’s still plenty to explore in autumn.
5. Swansea, West Glamorgan, Wales
Another Welsh city places within the top 10. Swansea has everything from a historic market town to long stretches of sandy beach – both great for crisp autumnal strolls.
6. Glasgow, Lanarkshire, Scotland
Glasgow’s fascinating history makes it a great choice for a staycation – not to mention it’s filled with art galleries, live music venues and great pubs.
7. Newcastle-upon-Tyne, Tyne and Wear, England
Newcastle is known for its buzzing nightlife scene – but it also boasts a plethora of shopping and food options. So you won’t be short on things to do.
8. Tenby, Pembrokeshire, Wales
This harbour resort in south-west Wales is known for its 13th-century town walls and stretches of sandy shoreline – including Castle Beach.
9. Dundee, Angus, Scotland
Home to the only V&A museum outside London, Dundee is great for culture vultures. It also has incredible architecture and scenic views of the north-east coast.
10. Ayr, Ayrshire, Scotland
Another Scottish location makes it into the top 10. Ayr is a seaside resort best-known as being the birthplace of Robert Burns. Learn more in the museum dedicated to the poet or dip into more history at Culzean Castle.
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