The UK’s best ‘upmarket’ staycation location is only a short drive from Greater Manchester

Liv Clarke

22 April 2024 at 1:20 am·2-min read

Coniston Water, Lake District — The Lake District has been named the UK's top upmarket staycation destination -Credit:Ian Greig / geograph.org.uk

With breathtaking fells, picturesque villages and tranquil lakes, it’s undeniable that the Lake District is one of the most beautiful places in the UK, attracting visitors from across the globe. Now the National Park has been named the country’s best staycation destination in the UK, according to new research.

The Lake District beat the likes of The Cotswolds, Pembrokeshire and Perth and Kinross to bag the top spot. Only a short drive away from Greater Manchester it’s right on our doorstep, too, so it couldn’t be handier for a staycation.

It was named the ‘ultimate upmarket staycation destination’ thanks to its 10 5-star hotels, 18 Michelin Guide restaurants, 25 luxury spas and wellness centres, five 5-star golf clubs, hiking trails and National Trust locations. The research, conducted by Land Rover Defender, analysed the above criteria to determine the best remote destinations in the UK. It looked at data from TripAdvisor, the National Trust, the National Trust for Scotland, the Office of National Statistics and the City Population Index to find the most remote locations which contain the highest number of high-rated amenities.

With a population of just 40,000 across the entire National Park, the Lake District is ideal for a tranquil getaway and perfect for outdoor-lovers, with dozens of hiking trails taking you through its stunning countryside. It has 23 National Trust locations to see, including Grasmere, Fell Foot and Wray Castle.

Grasmere, Lake District -Credit:Marion Dutcher / geograph.org.uk

Ranking in second place was the New Forest National Park in Hampshire, while The Cotswolds came in third place. Meanwhile the Peak District - another beauty spot right on our doorstep - was named the fourth best staycation location.

The UK’s best upmarket staycation spots

Lake District
New Forest National Park
The Cotswolds
Peak District National Park
Argyll and Bute
Pembrokeshire
Perth and Kinross
Cornwall
Ceredigon
Bath

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The UK’s best upmarket staycation spots

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