Cornwall named as UK's top holiday destination for 2022

As searches for ‘family holiday resorts UK’ increased by 130% over the past year, it’s clear the staycation boom is here to stay, with many families looking to venture out and appreciate what the UK has to offer.

So, where are the most popular staycation spots for 2022?

Using search data, holidaycottages.co.uk has revealed the UK’s family-friendly areas Brits are searching for most1. and included expert advice on where you should stay based on your family’s interests.

So, whether you’re a family full of thrill-seekers or historians, holidaycottages.co.uk has also recommended the best UK areas for you and your family to visit this summer.

1. Cornwall

• +100% searches in the past year
• Come here for: learning to surf

Porthleven

As searches for ‘Cornwall family breaks’ increased by 100%, Brits are riding the Cornish wave when it comes to staycations. So, whether you’re a family of seasoned surfers or a novice wave-catcher, with some of the best family-friendly beaches in the UK, it’s no surprise Cornwall topped the list for the best places to go with kids.

Some of the top surfing beaches for beginners can be found in Bude, Newquay and St Ives. And, when surf is up for the day, there is plenty of fun for all the family including the Eden Project, theme parks and maritime museums.

2. North Wales

• +100% searches in the past year
• Come here for: historic sites

North Wales

For history buffs and adventurers alike, with over 400 castles, Wales is the perfect destination for a family staycation. In fact, searches for ‘family accommodation North Wales’ have risen by 100% in the past year, largely due to its stunning romantic ruins and mighty strongholds.

Wales is also bursting at the seams with entertaining family attractions, outdoor pursuits, and beaches. In the north, Conwy Castle rules the kingdom and provides the perfect opportunity to discover stories of years gone by.

3. Lake District

• +75% searches in the past year
• Come here for: water sports

Cockermouth, Lake District (Image: James Armes, Unsplash)

Boasting 16 magnificent lakes, the Lake District National Park is one of the best places in the UK for thrill-seeking families. From a kayaking adventure to a gentle cruise, there are plenty of activities for all ages and, with searches for ‘family resorts lake district’ up 75%, the Lake District is clearly popular with Brits.

For thrills on drier land, families can make the most of all the action-packed days out for kids across the national park. Explore intriguing National Trust houses, discover the beautiful places that inspired children’s author Beatrix Potter, or monkey around at one of the Go Ape! adventure centres.

4. Scottish Highlands

• +51% searches in the past year
• Come here for: discovering wildlife

Kilchurn Castle, Scottish Highlands

As searches for ‘family resorts in Scotland’ have risen by 51%, the endless choice of beauty spots, beaches, castles and national parks sees Scotland teeming with family-friendly fun.

Whether or not you’re hunting for the creatures of ancient folklore, Scotland is also one of the best places in the UK to spot wildlife. With seals, dolphins and humpback whales off the coast, red squirrels in fragrant pine forests, or regal red deer in the glens, Scotland is hard to beat if you’re looking for a spot for your family of wildlife explorers.

5. Norfolk

• +25% searches in the past year
• Come here for: outdoor adventures

Happisburgh Lighthouse, North Norfolk coast

Bursting with beautiful scenery, tonnes of walking trails and fresh air, Norfolk is one of the best places to visit for families of outdoor explorers. In fact, searches for ‘Norfolk family holiday parks’ have increased by 25% over the past year.

Look forward to scenic boat trips along the waterways of the Norfolk Broads, spot seals at Blakeney or venture along the Norfolk Coast Path, discovering hidden, sandy coves along the way.

Commenting on the research Shannon Keary, Digital PR Manager at holidaycottages.co.uk says: “UK staycations continue to be a perfect alternative for a summer break with the family. With plenty on offer, from magical fauna to breathtaking walking trails, there are many regions to explore and experience the UK’s natural wonders.

“For the thrill-seekers among us, our research shows there are plenty of activities to get your adrenaline pumping the length and breadth of the country, from Lake District to Cornwall. We hope our research will give some insight for families looking to plan a UK staycation this summer.”

To discover more family-friendly staycations, visit holidaycottages.co.uk’s blog here.