Unexpected place named as best destination for UK holiday and it's not Cornwall or Devon

Cornwall, Devon, the Cotswolds and the Peak District are among the UK's most beloved holiday locations, renowned for their natural splendour. However, a new champion has emerged as the top destination due to its array of five-star eateries, hidden treasures, highly-rated campsites and overall location.

Auto Finance's report has named Worcestershire as the must-visit staycation spot of 2024, outshining competitors such as Rutland and England's southwest coast. This historic county in west-central England, nestled in the western region of the Midlands and home to the city of Worcester, has received high praise for its overall happiness and low crime rate according to recent surveys.

The city of Worcester's skyline is dominated by the majestic cathedral that sits beside the river, serving as a stunning local landmark. The hills and history are two of the main attractions of this Midlands location, but Auto Finance uncovered some other standout features of Worcestershire.

Their report ranked UK destinations based on various factors; location, five-star restaurants, Michelin stars, number of four-star and above campsites, and the quality of its hidden treasures. Worcestershire clinched the top spot with an impressive total score of 41.5 out of 50.

The staycation destination scored highest for its hidden treasures (7.1) and best campsites (8.6), reports the Express. Jacqui Dance, proprietor of Bredon-Vale Caravan and Camping shared with Worcester News: "Our guests love visiting Worcestershire for the scenery - that 'good old English countryside' as one camper said."

Jacqui expanded on this by adding: "They love the hills, the history - everything from the Tolkien references to the Battle of Evesham - and the huge selection of National Trust places to visit."

She further explains: "It is easy to get to and from most places in the UK and Europe due to its access from the M5, A46 and M40 and there is so much to do, from Morris dancing festivals to organised walks, farm shops and river activities."

As per Google reviews, the foremost campsites in the region include Malvern Hills Caravan and Motorhome Club Campsite, Broadway Caravan and Motorhome Club Site, and Out To Grass Camping, Glamping and Events, which received high words of praise from one visitor calling it "the best campsite in the UK".

For hidden gems, Visit Worcestershire recommends Harvington Hall an exquisite moated manor house established in the 1300s. The Fleece Inn is noted for its warm log fires and tasty classic pub fare while Droitwich Spa Lido is celebrated as one of the UK's last remaining inland, open-air, saltwater swimming pools.

Meanwhile, in Auto Finances ranking of best locations for a staycation, Rutland captured second place. Cornwall earned the third position, followed by Kent in fourth and North Yorkshire rounding out the top five.

Interestingly, Herefordshire and Devon ranked sixth and seventh respectively, with both counties scoring highly for their hidden gems, outperforming Worcestershire. Cornwall topped the list in this category with a perfect score of 10.