Tahir Mehmood, 47 and his wife Deepika Benjamin, 41, have made it a habit to take their three-year-old son Isaac on one staycation every month. Over the past year, the family has travelled to destinations such as Bournemouth, Hastings, and Weymouth for quality family time.
Their top trip in 2024 was to Blackpool – Tahir’s favourite childhood beach destination. They enjoyed the amusements, rode The Big One rollercoaster, and indulged in fish and chips on the seafront.
Tahir believes these breaks are ‘good for family wellbeing’ and cherishes the opportunity to create as many memories with his family as possible.
“As a country, we’re blessed with so much to see and do, even on short breaks. Whether its beaches, countryside locations or quintessentially British towns and villages,” said Tahir, who himself didn’t go on many holidays as a child.
Research commissioned by Sykes Holiday Cottages revealed that the top places for a short break in the UK in 2025 were York, Edinburgh, and Bath. Other popular locations included Windermere, Whitby and Cambridge.
The survey found that on average respondents have two overnight UK trips booked in the next 12 months. When planning these types of trips Tahir emphasises the importance of adhering to a budget. He said to help keep costs down he books his accommodation in advance to secure the best prices.
“We research good value and free local attractions and expect to have a cheap meal on the beach such as fish and chips,” he stated. “There’s something about sea swimming and eating chips on the beach that you just can’t beat.”
The top reasons for taking such breaks are relaxation, escaping the daily routine, and sightseeing. Many staycations have also been taken to visit loved ones, celebrate birthdays, or enjoy a romantic weekend.
UK staycation provider Sykes Holiday Cottages has now launched a competition where one lucky winner will become a UK Short Break Tester, enjoying a selection of trips for free in 2025.
Staycation enthusiasts can apply by submitting a 200-word letter explaining why they deserve the role. Applications are open from now until 17th February 2025.
Over half of people claim they can achieve that ‘holiday feeling’ even on a short break close to home. James Shaw, managing director for the holiday brand, said: “There are so many places to escape to in the UK which don’t have to include long distance travel and weeks of planning and packing.”
“As little as 48 hours away from everyday routine, work and school commitments, and chores can be the refresh people need,” he added.
“We’re excited to give someone the chance to go on several Staycations this year. Whether it’s food, adventure or views people are seeking, the UK has it all and our UK Short Break Tester will be able to experience that for themselves.”