Whether you’re afraid to fly, don’t fancy it, or can’t afford it, there is always the option of a staycation. The UK has plenty going for it, from the white cliffs of Dover to the Highlands up in Scotland, there’s gorgeous greenery and brilliantly blue seas all around our little island. So if you’re looking for the best places to go, here are the cheapest staycation cities in the UK.
All prices are estimated using Booking.com, Trivago and Numbeo. The hotel prices are estimated for 2 adults across a week in the summer, and so the final price given involve splitting the hotel cost between 2 people. These are 20 of the cheapest staycation cities in the UK in comparison to This Is Money’s most expensive staycations, such as the Cotswolds and The Peak District.
20. Tenby
Over in Pembrokeshire, Wales, Tenby is a quaint town on the coast. Visitors get to enjoy its yellow sandy beaches, pretty scenery and scenic Tudor architecture. Whilst there, why not take a trip over to St Catherine’s Island or Caldey Island and enjoy the view back on the UK.
19. Weymouth
Weymouth beach is one of the prettiest in the south, with the well-lit promenade making the perfect Instagram picture. On top of the beach, staying in Weymouth will give you the chance to explore the Sea Life centre, Bowleaze Cove, and other Weymouth oddities like Sandworld.
18. Newquay
Any surfers will be familiar with this destination. With gorgeous sandy coastlines and places like Fistral Beach, you’re destined to have a great, instagrammable holiday. Plus, there’s a zoo and an aquarium, plenty of mini-golf and shopping to do, and great views.
17. Bristol
Bristol’s a gorgeous city with plenty to do. There’s independent stores, a market, and lots of bars to check out. It’s also got some of the best views in the South East, and a great zoo. If you’re looking to go to Bristol, here’s what it will cost.
16. London
It’s no secret that there’s lots to do in London, it is the capital after all. Whether you want to do all the touristy stuff like the museums (which are free, by the way), Shrek’s Adventure, Sea Life and the London Eye, or you’re more interested in Camden, Spitalfields and Primrose markets, there’s plenty to keep you busy for a week at least, and you can pick and choose between the freebies and the paid days out.
15. Nottingham
Fancy a trip to the National Justice Museum? What about some caves? Or a castle? Maybe you fancy some drinks at Hooters. There’s just such a range of things to do in Nottingham, that you’ll never be bored. There’s even a massive watersports centre and a deer park!
14. Matlock
Up in Derbyshire, Matlock is an idyllic place for a getaway. With lush green scenery, rolling hills and steep cliffs, it’s a perfect staycation location. Whilst there, take a cable car up to the Heights of Abraham and explore the caverns, visit Gulliver’s Kingdom, visit some Highland Cows at Matlock Farm Park and walk around the town.
13. Leeds
Leeds has so much going on it’s unreal; from the huge Trinity Shopping Centre to the Royal Armouries Museum, Leeds Art Gallery, Diggerland, Kirkgate Market, or an Emmerdale Village Tour if that’s something you’re interested in!
12. Liverpool
For those looking to visit Liverpool, you can explore the Tate, visit the Royal Albert Dock where big films were shot, take a tour of the cathedral and follow the story of The Beatles. Not to mention all the great shopping to be done, and drinks to enjoy. All of that, and the prices are affordable too!
11. Bournemouth
With a beautiful coastline, Bournemouth is known as one of the nicer seaside resorts in the country. Off of the coastline you can see Old Harry and his wife, or back on land, you can explore places like the Russell Cotes Art Gallery, the Oceanarium, Adventure Wonderland or the pier.
10. Brighton
Whilst not usually considered cheap, Brighton has a lot you can do for free. From the beaches to the 98 parks and gardens, you could spend your whole week outside if you so wished. But then you’d miss out on the Brighton Museum and Art Gallery, the i360 and Sea Life Centre.
9. Manchester
Manchester has everything, from the creative Northern Quarter that is made up of backstreets packed with galleries, bars and shops. There you’ll find a mix of weird architectural styles alongside beer gardens, DJs and pubs. In said pubs, you can find some of the city’s finest craft beer, or take a trip to the food markets and try local street food.
8. Belfast
Take in some Irish hospitality and take a trip over to Belfast. Whilst this city would involve sailing or flying overseas for anyone living on the UK mainland, for those already in Ireland it’s definitely a cheap option for a staycation. Visit Belfast castle, St George’s Market, the gorgeous botanic gardens and all the shops and bars Belfast has to offer!
7. Great Yarmouth
From Pleasure Beach to Sea Life, Great Yarmouth screams traditional British seaside. Visit the rollercoasters at Pleasure Beach, the town centre, or even the famous Hippodrome Circus, and you’re guaranteed to have a whale of a time.
6. Cardiff
If you’re visiting Cardiff, you can always check out Cardiff International White Water, Cardiff Castle, or you can get on a boat tour and explore the docks. Not to mention there’s all the Doctor Who filming sites for anyone that way inclined.
5. Bath
Bath is dripping in British culture. If you want a truly English staycation, then take a trip here. The city has a multitude of theatres and museums, plus plenty of gorgeous buildings and boutique shops. It’s also home to some of the best hot springs in the UK.
4. Birmingham
Birmingham is next on the list, as it’s got plenty to do and plenty to see, but despite being above London, it’s not that cheap. When staying there, you can visit the inspiration for The Lord of the Rings, explore the Canal Quarter, or take a trip to Cadbury World or see brilliant theatre at the Hippodrome.
3. Sheffield
Sheffield is full of students, which means you can rely on cheap bars and cheap food. Plus, plenty of free things to do like the Millennium Gallery. Then there are places like Peveril Castle, the Magna Science Adventure Centre and the botanical gardens. Check out some of the best bars in Sheffield if you’re looking for some good drinks deals!
2. York
A gorgeous gated city, with beautiful rivers and a huge amount of history, York has been the backdrop to key moments in English history. You can walk along the city walls, take a look at the Viking museum, the dungeon, or the castle. It’s definitely a place to visit for history fans. Then there’s the Shambles and the market, perfect for any shopaholics.
1. Newport
Newport doesn’t have a lot of free attractions, and so the costs for your staycation will rise slightly there. However, whilst there you can go and visit Tiny Rebel Brewing Co and have a tour around their brewery, and you can take a look around Diverse Vinyl for your next favourite record.
Now you know the cheapest staycation cities in the UK, start thinking about what to pack!
