The UK’s best staycation destinations for 2018

Avoid the delays and holiday closer to home this year

Exeter comes top in the list of best places in the UK to staycation (istock)

With the UK’s current heat wave forecast to continue into the next few weeks, it’s worth reflecting on the many staycation options available across the UK. With award-winning beaches, internationally acclaimed cultural and historical attractions and 15 national parks, there’s something for everyone on this sceptred isle. But not all destinations are created equal.

In its Great British Staycation Index 2018, Citybase Apartments has studied the statistics behind every city in the UK to find the best holiday hotspots. Factors include the maximum average temperature and average rainfull in July (taken from Met Office data), the average price of a pint, the crime rate (taken from local constabulary data) and the restaurant and family-friendly attractions available (taken from TripAdvisor).

Overall, the top three UK cities based on the above criteria are Exeter, Bristol and Chelmsford. Brighton and Hove, Oxford and Cambridge also follow in fourth, fifth and six places respectively.

While London is undoubtedly one of the world’s most popular tourist destinations, Chelmsford is arguably a less well-known option. Visitors to the Essex city can check out the medieval cathedral and neo-classical Hylands House, built in 1730.

Those looking to avoid the wet weather should head to the City of London and Canterbury, which come top for the lowest rainfall. Chichester, Southampton and Chelmsford come fourth, fifth and sixth.

For many people, a pint in a sunny beer garden means that summer has really arrived. Those looking to get more bubbles for their buck should head to Durham, where the average cost of a pint is just £2.10.

Foodies looking to expand their culinary horizons are spoilt for choice in Manchester, which boasts 1,096 restaurant according to TripAdvisor, and takes the top spot for moderately priced eateries.

If you want to stay safe while you’re away from home, St Aspah in north Wales, which is the second-smallest city in the UK, comes top of the list for low crime rates.

Unsurprisingly, London has the most to offer families in terms of attractions and activities, with Edinburgh coming in second

Top 10 staycation destinations

1. Exeter
2. Bristol
3. Chelmsford
4. Brighton and Hove
5. Oxford
6. Cambridge
7. Southampton
8. Bath
9. Coventry
10. Sheffield

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