The best parts of the UK for all the family as more Britons book multi-generational trips

Indeed, the Peak District bring together grandparents, parents and children, according to new booking data from holidaycottages.co.uk.

Best staycations for the entire family

1. Peak District
2. The Cotswolds
3. Suffolk
4. Yorkshire
5. Norfolk

Half of all families love nothing more than taking walks together during their breaks, whether they're strolling through countryside paths or wandering along coastal routes.

The data shows that exploring charming villages and towns comes a close second as a favourite activity. More than two in five families say that gathering for restaurant meals is a real highlight of their trips, showing just how much sharing food still matters for bringing families closer.

So why are these areas so popular with everyone? Regional experts have shared their verdicts for each destination and why they make a great Christmas getaway.

The Peak District and Yorkshire are both brilliant areas to get out in nature, and they have some incredible Christmas markets too. Regional expert for the Peak District and Yorkshire, Julie Smith, said: "Chatsworth House and the town of Bakewell, which are just 10 minutes from each other, have lots of independent shops that are decorated for Christmas at this time of year, and both host Christmas markets with 100s of stalls.

"Bakewell's opened on November 15 and 16, while the Chatsworth House market was open from November 8. The Monsal Trail is a walk that begins in Bakewell and is lovely during winter."

Smith also suggested some key parts of Yorkshire. She added: "Visit Haworth in the heart of Bronte Country in the run-up to Christmas - the cobbled market square is lit by fairy lights and there are various events on.

"Harrogate similarly has lots going on for Christmas, including a Christmas market and Glow Winter Illuminations at Harlow Carr, while Harewood House is close by, hosting a Christmas extravaganza with the Regency theme: A Glittering Invitation. Nearby Knaresborough is the setting for a new Christmas film coming out soon, Tinsel Town, and hosts a winter wonderland experience at Mother Shipton's Cave, as well as a Christmas market."

Next up is the Cotswolds. Digital PR manager, Sarah Pring, said: "Broadway's Christmas market and late-night shopping take place at the end of November, while nearby Stow-on-the-Wold and Chipping Campden host traditional fairs.

"Blenheim Palace transforms for the season with its illuminated light trail, Christmas market, and The Great Skate, a covered ice rink in the Great Court, perfect for families. A walk along the Cotswold Way or through Snowshill offers frosty views of rolling hills, and you can finish the day with a festive meal at a cosy inn like The Lygon Arms."

Regional expert for Suffolk and Norfolk, Inday Harrison, shared her Suffolk tips: "Constable Country is one of the most picturesque places in Britain for a countryside walk and inspired many famous paintings, while the medieval village, Lavenham, with crooked buildings, was used on the set of Harry Potter, perfect to visit at Christmas.

"The Ship in Dunwich is perfect for a festive dinner with the family after a day of exploring."

Rounding out the top five list in Norfolk, which has plenty to keep guests entertained this festive season. For Norfolk, Harrison added: "Sandringham's Luminate Winter Light Trail within the Royal Family's Norfolk estate is a mile-long trail with a funfair, toasted marshmallows and mulled wine - a great Christmas activity for the family.

"Equally, the traditional Georgian town of Holt is beautifully lit up with Christmas lights, and is home to a Christmas market and an array of independent shops. The Ingham Swan serves an 8-course festive taster menu throughout December - ideal for foodie families."

Speaking on the overall rankings, Pring said: "We've seen a steady growth in multi-generational holidays over the last few years, so we wanted to understand what was driving this growing trend from the perspective of families across all generations.

"It's heartening to see that the main motivation is simple: spending quality time together. These holidays are about slowing down, enjoying the little things, and reconnecting in a world that often feels too fast-paced. It's also been fascinating to uncover how different age groups enjoy sharing experiences, and where they overlap.

"The data reveals that half of families prefer self-catering cottages for their multi-gen getaways. Our collection includes beautiful properties not only in the most popular destinations mentioned, but across the UK and Ireland, so you can make lasting memories, wherever you choose to stay."