Cost of living - Poll ranks budget UK staycations during cost of living crisis - full list and where came top

A poll of 2,000 holidaymakers has ranked the the best value staycation hotspots in the UK based on four categories, including accommodation, transport, activities and eating out.
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The poll found the home of the world-famous illuminations, Blackpool, as the best value staycation spot across the four categories. Blackpool was joined in the top 10 list of cost-effective holiday hotspots by other iconic seaside towns, including Brighton and Skegness and Scarborough.

When it comes to city breaks, Cardiff, Liverpool, and Newcastle were considered the best value options by travellers polled, with each of them scoring highly when it came to affordable meals out, accommodation and transport. Meanwhile, three holiday favourites from the north of England, Morecambe, Whitby, and York, rounded off the top 10.

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Graham Donoghue, chief executive of holiday letting agency Sykes Holiday Cottages, which commissioned the research, said: “Blackpool is an iconic British holiday destination. Not only does it encapsulate the best of a quintessential seaside staycation, but it also offers great value for money.

“With the rising cost of living continuing to put a squeeze on budgets, many holidaymakers will be looking to see where they can get the best value for money on holidays this year. Making travel plans closer to home could be an ideal solution, as it is easier to stick to a holiday budget while still spending quality time with loved ones.”

The research also revealed 27% of holidaymakers are more likely to book a staycation this year due to the rising cost of living. Nearly a quarter (23%) have already booked their staycations for 2023, while 34% are planning to get one organised.

To help keep within their budgets, one in three will book their getaways out of peak seasons, while 29% will spend more time researching the best deals. 28% will book self-catering accommodation so they can keep the cost of meals down while away.

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Graham Donoghue added: “Despite the cost-of-living crisis, millions of Brits are still eager to get away in 2023, with many opting to stay in the UK instead of heading abroad on their holidays to keep costs down. But who can really blame them when there is much to love about going on staycations?

"Throughout the UK, we are spoilt for choice when it comes to a diverse range of landscapes, activities, and history to enjoy, offering multiple opportunities to create lifelong memories for all groups of travellers, no matter what your budget is.”

Top 10 best budget staycation hotspots 

1. Blackpool

2. Cardiff

3. Liverpool

4. Brighton

5. Skegness

6. Scarborough

7. Newcastle

8. Morecambe

9. Whitby

10. York

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