Instead of travelling abroad, 52% of Brits chose to holiday locally last year, and for good reason!
More and more people are choosing to explore what’s right on their doorstep. From rolling countryside and stunning British coastlines to rich culture, local cuisine and unexpected hidden gems, holidaying close to home offers a world of benefits.
So, we’ve highlighted 10 reasons why your next getaway should be a local one, and why you won’t regret it.
One of the biggest advantages of holidaying locally is the time you can save on travelling.
We’ve all experienced the hassle of getting to the airport, the stress of getting through airport security, passport queues, and enduring long-haul flights. However, when you holiday locally, you can start relaxing almost immediately.
Local getaways mean less time packing, planning, and stressing, and more time exploring, resting, and enjoying your much needed break.
Whether it’s a weekend escape, a week-long stay or perhaps even longer, the convenience of a short drive or train ride allows you to make the most of every moment.
While planning a holiday abroad is an exciting time, it can also be stressful.
Trying to find the best flights, travel insurance, weight limits for luggage and accommodation to suit your needs can be a lot to manage. Balancing all these elements becomes even more challenging when you have young kids or a pet to consider.
Travelling locally can take away the stress of planning for young families. Shorter journeys mean less stress, fewer disruptions to routines, and no need for lengthy airport waits or cramped flights.
Local travel allows you to pack everything you need without worrying about luggage limits, and it’s easier to take breaks or change plans if needed. Many UK destinations also offer child- and pet-friendly accommodation, making it simple to keep everyone happy.
Staying closer to home also provides a sense of familiarity and security, creating a more enjoyable and relaxed holiday experience.
Holidaying locally is often a significantly cheaper alternative to travelling abroad. Without the cost of flights, airport transfers, travel insurance, or currency exchange, your budget stretches further.
When holidaying locally in the UK, you can choose from a wide range of affordable options, like camping, self-catering holiday cottages, or even quick day trips without compromising on experience.
There’s also less need to dine out every night or buy travel extras, which helps keep costs down. Whether you’re after a countryside retreat, coastal escape, or cultural city break, local travel offers great value. It’s an ideal choice for those wanting to enjoy a break without the financial pressure of overseas travel.
If you want to still enjoy a great holiday, while also reducing your environmental impact, then travelling locally is a great choice. By avoiding long-haul flights or international travel, you significantly cut down on carbon emissions, especially aviation-related CO₂.
Exploring UK destinations also supports local economies and minimises the environmental footprint linked to mass tourism. With improved rail networks and eco-conscious accommodation options, it’s easier than ever to enjoy a low-impact break close to home.
Whether it’s hiking in national parks or relaxing on British beaches, a UK holiday offers rich experiences with fewer environmental costs, making it a greener way to travel and unwind.
Booking a holiday abroad is an exciting time and gives a lot of us something to look forward to, but life happens. Circumstances can change in a matter of seconds, which can throw your pre-planned holiday into chaos.
Holidaying locally can often be quicker, easier, and far more flexible. So, you can avoid this annoyance and stress that goes with rearranging a holiday abroad.
With no need for passports, visas, or currency exchange, you can book last-minute getaways with ease. Travel times are often shorter, meaning less stress and more time enjoying your break.
You also have the freedom to travel by car, train, or coach, and if plans change, it’s much easier to rearrange or reschedule. Plus, there’s a huge variety of destinations, with stunning coastlines, countryside destinations, and buzzing cities right on your doorstep.
A UK staycation gives you spontaneity, simplicity, and peace of mind, without the complications of international travel.
If you’re planning to go for a two-week holiday abroad, you may have to use a large chunk of your annual leave, and save up for flights, accommodation and other activities.
Holidaying locally makes it easier to take more frequent breaks throughout the year. With less travel time and lower costs, quick weekend getaways or midweek escapes become more achievable. There’s no need to wait for long, just pack up and go.
The UK offers countless options just a short drive or train ride away. These shorter, more regular breaks can also boost wellbeing, reduce burnout, and give you something to look forward to, all without the stress of long-haul travel and expenses.
Choosing a local holiday in the UK gives you the chance to uncover hidden gems right on your doorstep. It can give you a whole new perspective on your home county and country as a whole.
From secret beaches and tucked-away countryside pubs to lesser-known heritage sites and walking trails, there’s so much to explore beyond the usual tourist hotspots.
Travelling closer to home encourages a slower pace and a more curious mindset, ideal for discovering the charm of small towns, independent shops, and local food producers.
You’re more likely to stumble across unique experiences and places you’d otherwise overlook. A UK staycation turns the familiar into something fresh and unexpected, making every trip feel like an adventure.
Another great reason to holiday locally is that it’s a powerful way to support local businesses and boost regional economies. From family-run retreats and independent cafés to local shops, markets, and attractions, your spending helps small businesses thrive.
Staying local means your money stays local, sustaining jobs, encouraging entrepreneurship, and preserving the unique character of towns and rural communities. By choosing UK destinations, you’re not only enjoying authentic experiences but also making a positive impact on the places you visit.
Whether it’s dining at a farm-to-table restaurant or booking a guided tour, every choice you make contributes to a more resilient, home-grown economy.
Taking a local holiday in the UK opens the door to rich and varied cultural experiences that are often just a short journey away.
Each region has its own distinctive traditions, festivals, and history to explore; from coastal folklore to Highland games and Welsh choirs. You can visit world-class museums, historic castles, literary landmarks, and vibrant local arts scenes without leaving the country.
Staying local allows for deeper, more meaningful connections with communities and heritage, offering insights you might miss on a rushed trip abroad. It’s a chance to rediscover the cultural treasures of the UK up close.
Travelling locally gives you the perfect opportunity to indulge in the best of regional cuisine. From freshly caught seafood in Cornwall to traditional Lancashire hotpot, every area has its own culinary specialties rooted in local history and produce.
You can sample artisan cheeses, farm-fresh meats, homemade jams, and baked goods straight from local markets or independent eateries. Whether you're dining in cosy pubs, seaside fish shacks, or countryside tearooms, the focus is often on quality, seasonal ingredients.
A UK staycation lets you savour authentic flavours while supporting local food producers. It’s your turn to discover just how diverse and delicious British cuisine can be.
Ready to plan the British staycation? We’re here to help. We have plenty of luxury holiday cottages in the Lake District and surrounding areas, all of which are perfect for a weekend away with your partner, a family holiday, or a celebration with friends.
Check our availability and get planning your idyllic local holiday today.