With international travel a distant and unlikely prospect this year, holidaymakers will need to turn their attention to getaways closer to home. A staycation boom is on the horizon; once lockdown restrictions are lifted, Costa del Sol will be swapped for the Jurassic Coastline, and a weekend in Berlin for a weekend in Bath.
If you need some inspiration for your staycation, we have got you covered.Â
Staycation boom this year if lockdown restrictions lifted
We have finally come to terms with the prospect that we won’t be jetting off anywhere exotic this summer, and while virtual travel through the internet has kept us inspired during lockdown, the desire to escape to somewhere different is growing.Â
The majority of international borders remain tightly closed this year and there is no clear indication of when they will reopen to tourists, discouraging many people from booking holidays not only for this year, but for 2021 as well. The government recently announced that the UK would be imposing a 14-day quarantine for people arriving by air travel, making international travel look even less appealing. It also goes without saying that many will fear the health risk of travelling internationally.
Staycations will also become more popular this year as a result of incomes being squeezed during the Covid-19 crisis; with less disposable income, many people will be looking at places closer to home to get their holiday fix. Garri Rayner, who founded Go Glamping amidst the 2008 financial crisis, supports this, claiming that people will be looking for holidays on a budget.
So where should you go for your staycation when lockdown is lifted?
DEVON
If you are looking for beautiful coastline and expansive hilly landscapes, Devon is undoubtedly a top contender. Home to the popular Dartmoor National Park, Devon offers visitors grassy moorlands across its granite bedrock that are perfect for walkers. Whether you are looking for a quiet fishing village or a sandy stretch of beach, this county is a must-visit. Exeter, Torquay and Plymouth are also popular with tourists. Don’t forget to try a Devonshire Cream Tea before you leave!
CORNWALL
Cornwall has become infamous for its blue flag beaches and turquoise waters; if you are craving a seaside holiday, this county is where you can get your fix. Popular with surfers, Cornwall’s sandy shores make it a perfect substitution for your Spanish getaway; amongst the most recommended by Condé Nast Traveller, are Fistral Beach in Newquay, Porthcurno and Whitsand Bay. Perfect for families, Cornwall also offers visitors pretty seaside towns where you can grab a Cornish pasty or an ice cream. Make sure you add Penzance, Padstow and St Ives to your must-see list.
NEW FOREST
Nestled in the southwest of Hampshire, the New Forest is a popular spot for campers, cyclists and walkers. The magical woodlands, charming B&Bs and famous New Forest ponies make this staycation spot a great choice for your post-lockdown trip. Whether you are an adventurer or looking for a break to unwind from the daily grind, the rural countryside and stunning forests are the perfect setting. Brockenhurst, Beaulieu and Lymington are worth a visit if you’re looking for a break from rural seclusion. Find more information on the New Forest visitor information site.Â
PEAK DISTRICT
The Peak District is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful areas of natural beauty in the UK; with its rolling hills and rivers, it is a great spot to head to if you are looking for some outdoor seclusion. Popular with hikers, walking trails here are in abundance, along with cycle paths and opportunities to go horse riding. The Peak District also offers visitors the chance to explore its famous caves and caverns, showcasing rare stones and unusual rock formations.Â
PEMBROKESHIRE
The rugged coastline and picturesque seaside towns make Pembrokeshire the jewel of southwest Wales; more untouched than many other parts of the UK, this beautiful staycation setting is a must-visit when lockdown restrictions are lifted. Beautiful coastal walks, picturesque harbours and sweeping sandy beaches are just some of the attractions of this vibrant county. Pembrokeshire is the perfect remote getaway for anyone that is craving a reconnection with nature or a peaceful break. For more inspiration, have a look at Lonely Planet’s Pembrokeshire guide.
DORSET
Dorset is another great place to go for your staycation and has been one of the most popular destinations for domestic tourism over the years. Perhaps one its’ main attractions is the striking Jurassic Coast, where you’ll find the notorious Durdle Door. This 185-million-year-old coastline provides holidaymakers with cliff walks, camping opportunities and stunning views. Bournemouth is another treasure of Dorset owing to its popular sandy beaches and excellent shopping.
COTSWOLDS
The beautiful Cotsworlds are a perfect choice for a staycation if you’re looking for an escape to the country; stone cottages, rolling hills and quintessentially English villages make this area of outstanding beauty popular with holidaymakers. Cosy B&Bs, boutique hotels and country cottages promise a romantic getaway or simply the chance to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. A trip to the Cotswolds will involve traditional pubs, antique shops and little tearooms, all with the backdrop of the misty moors and grasslands.
NORFOLK
A mix of stunning beaches and charming towns, Norfolk is another great destination for your staycation. One of its most appealing attractions is without a doubt the Norfolk Broads; 125 miles of winding waterways, the man-made Broads are home to an abundance of wildlife. Whether you choose to hire a boat for the day or want to try your hand at a boating holiday, the Norfolk Broads offer a unique spot for both adventure and relaxation. Even better, you can stop off at one of the many pubs and restaurants along the way!
SCOTLAND
It goes without saying that if you choose to visit Scotland, you won’t be disappointed. Scotland is the land of wilderness, wildlife and culture and there is something for everyone. Whether you choose to wander the streets of Edinburgh, hike in the Scottish Highlands, or take in the natural beauty of the Hebrides, you will be moved by the magic of this beautiful country. Make sure you schedule a visit to a Whisky distillery and don’t leave without trying Haggis! Â
SOMERSET
Home to Cheddar Gorge and Glastonbury Abbey, Somerset is the perfect location for a post-isolation retreat. With grassy fields, gently sloping hills and countless footpaths, this county is great for the lovers of the outdoors. If you plan a visit here you must head to Bath, where you’ll wander cobbled streets, marvel at the renowned stone buildings and discover the history of the ancient Roman Baths. Bristol is also definitely worth a visit; the impressive Clifton Suspension Bridge is a feat of engineering and must-see in Somerset.Â
Be patient and get planning
It isn’t yet clear when we will be able to escape the four walls and head off on our holidays, even within domestic borders. Although lockdown is beginning to ease, we have no clear picture of when domestic tourism can take off, but we can assume that, with international travel off the cards, staycations will become more popular. Now is the time to be inspired by what the UK has to offer. So whilst you wait for the green light, start to reimagine what your next exotic holiday looks like, start to look closer to home and get planning.
Featured image: © Jacob Smith
