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UK: The North of England is set to be the UK’s most popular destination this year, attracting 45 per cent of travellers, ahead of the South West (41 per cent) and Scotland (38 per cent).
Over one-third of Britons (37 per cent) plan to take more UK leisure trips in 2026, according to new research from AA Media.
Over half (56 per cent) are opting for shorter, more frequent breaks, with additional budgets focused on “better accommodation” (63 per cent) and increased spend on dining out (50 per cent).
Coastal breaks remain the nation’s favourite type of UK getaway (55 per cent) followed by countryside escapes (46 per cent). One in five (21 per cent) are planning a camping or caravan holiday.
More than nine in 10 (92 per cent) consider official quality ratings or user reviews before booking accommodation, with six in 10 taking both into account. More than half prefer to book directly through the property’s own website rather than via online travel platforms.
Simon Numphud, managing director at AA Media, said: “As economic pressures continue to influence travel decisions, what’s particularly encouraging is that people aren’t turning their backs on travel, they are simply changing the way they do it. Rather than one or two longer holidays, many are opting for shorter, more frequent UK breaks that offer value and the opportunity to discover more of what’s on their doorstep.
“For hospitality businesses, this presents a significant opportunity. Those that can deliver excellent value without compromising on quality will be well placed to benefit from the growing demand for UK leisure travel in 2026,” he added.
Click here to read the full report: UK Leisure Travel 2026 Survey Results.
Highlights:
- The North of England is set to be the UK’s most popular staycation destination in 2026, attracting 45 per cent of UK travellers, ahead of the South West (41 per cent) and Scotland (38 percent).
- AA Media research found that 37 per cent of Britons plan to take more UK leisure trips in 2026, with 56 per cent favouring shorter, more frequent breaks.
- UK travellers are prioritising better accommodation and dining, with 63 per cent planning to spend more on accommodation and 50 per cent expecting to increase spending on eating out.
- Coastal breaks remain the UK’s most popular domestic getaway, chosen by 55 per cent of travellers, followed by countryside escapes (46 per cent), while 21 per cent plan camping or caravan holidays.
- Accommodation bookings are heavily influenced by quality ratings and reviews, with 92 per cent of travellers considering official ratings or user reviews and more than half preferring to book directly with properties.
