Where to go on holiday in the UK 2021: Airbnb releases trending staycation locations

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Travel


Where to go on holiday in the UK 2021: Airbnb releases trending staycation locations

By Megan Murray

4 years ago

With abroad holidays seeming increasingly difficult to book, everyone’s looking for the next big staycation spot. And, according to Airbnb these are the UK locations you need to see in 2021.

For many people, there’s a lot riding on this summer, whether that’s catching up with friends and family you’ve not seen for a year, getting out of the local area or going on a much-missed holiday.

But, as countries in Europe such as France and Spain continue to struggle with rising cases of Covid-19 and travel restrictions continue to be discussed, the UK government is being very cautious about permitting holidays abroad

Ever the optimists, though, UK holidaymakers are already snapping up the most fabulous hotels around the country and getting stuck into staycation planning. Leaving one big question: where is the in vogue place to travel to this summer in Britain?

It depends, of course, on what you’re looking for. For example, some UK spots such as Bath and London have been compared to international cities like Paris and New York, making them an appealing choice if you’re dreaming of getting off Blighty.  

But if rural living is what you’re after, you’re in the majority, as Airbnb reports that spiking numbers of Britons are booking countryside abodes and the data points to some areas of the UK being trending places for this summer. 

This is great news if you love a hidden gem, as many of these places aren’t big names or busy cities. In fact, you may not have even heard of a few of them. 

River Wye flowing through green hills

Credit: Getty Images

Airbnb’s general manager for northern Europe, Amanda Cupples, says: “As national lockdowns begin to ease, local hosts on Airbnb are ready to open their doors again to provide safe, clean and private stays for those looking to explore beyond their own four walls once more. 

“Our trending destinations show that travel this year is likely to be a little different, with many using a summer closer to home to explore lesser-known rural destinations in addition to the well-loved favourites.”

At the top of the list is Saint Clears in Pembrokeshire, Forest of Dean in Gloucestershire and Clovelly in Devon. Keep scrolling to see the full 10. 

1. Saint Clears, Pembrokeshire

Saint Clears is a tiny town on the River Tâf in Carmarthenshire, Wales.

There are several castles to visit, including Saint Clears Castle and Llansteffan Castle, as well as idyllic walks down by the river and an old fashioned-style town. 


2. Forest of Dean, Gloucestershire

Forest of Dean in Gloucestershire is known for its rolling hills, ancient woodland and the River Wye which snakes through it. 

If you’re looking for a place of remarkable natural beauty it certainly fits the bill and there’s plenty to do such as an authentic steam train ride, sculpture trail and vineyards. 


3. Clovelly, Devon

Clovelly is a very pretty little harbour village in north Devon, characterised by its cobbled streets, quaint buildings and views over the Bristol Channel.

There’s lots of small shops and independent restaurants to visit, many of which hang fairy lights outside their windows in the evening which makes for an atmospheric effect.


4. Bosham, Sussex

Get away to the seaside with a trip to Bosham in Sussex. This small, picturesque village sits on one of the small inlets of Chichester harbour, with lovely views out to the water.

While you’re there be sure to visit the quay and the ld churches, as well as browsing the artisan shops and cafes.


5. Primrose Valley, Yorkshire

Primrose Valley is a lovely stretch of countryside and village in Filey, North Yorkshire. There’s a large caravan park nearby if that’s your thing and lots of brilliant walking routes.


Airbnb’s list of trending UK destinations for 2021:

  1. Saint Clears, Pembrokeshire
  2. Forest of Dean, Gloucestershire
  3. Clovelly, Devon
  4. Bosham, Sussex
  5. Primrose Valley, Yorkshire
  6. Mullion, Cornwall
  7. Cawsand, Cornwall
  8. Noss Mayo, Devon
  9. Saunton, Devon
  10. East Wittering, Sussex

Images: Getty Images / Instagram

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