Cheapest holiday spots in the south of England have gorgeous beaches and overnight stays from £6 a night

Revealed - The perfect staycation locations in the UK |

GB NEWS

Sarra Gray

By Sarra Gray


Published: 08/08/2025

- 16:09

Holiday park stays in parts of England can be as low as £6 to £7 per person per night

The south of England is home to many of the UK's most popular holiday destinations, offering sandy beaches and some of the hottest temperatures in the country.

This often makes it a more expensive option, however. Speaking exclusively to GB News, a travel expert shared the most affordable southern spots for a holiday.


Southend-on-Sea, Polperro and the Isle of Wight were named for unmissable beaches, with accommodation options that won't break the bank.

This is according to travel and tourism expert, and marketing director at BCN Travel, Christian Petzold, who explained some overnight stays can cost less than £10 per person.

Southend-on-Sea, Essex

Essex has some great beaches, like Southend-on-Sea

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Southend-on-Sea, Essex

Essex is a great choice for a staycation, whether you want a break in the countryside or even somewhere to springboard for a trip to London. It also has some great beaches, like Southend-on-Sea.

Christian explained: "Delightfully overlooked, Southend offers great beach days and arcades for families. Two-night breaks are available for under £125, especially in spring and autumn.

"Adventure Island theme park is operated on a wristband system, and promotions are common for £20 or less. For couples, there's more than you'd anticipate, great seafood restaurants and boutique seafront hotels."

Polperro, Cornwall

Cornwall might not spring to mind when thinking of cheap holiday spots, but Polperro is home to some great deals.

The expert said: "Although Cornwall is pricey, Polperro is a bargain, especially in shoulder seasons. Holiday park stays can be as low as £6 to £7 per person per night.

"The village itself is picture-postcard quaint, with cobblestone lanes, art studios, and cliff paths. Families can go on boat tours for £6 to £8 and play in tidal pools for free, and couples can have the peaceful, romantic ambience without crowds or cost."

Polperro, Cornwall beach

Holidaymakers can find great deals in Cornwall when visiting Polperro

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Cowes Isle of Wight

The Isle of Wight is great for families and an affordable holiday option

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Isle of Wight

Located off the south coast of England, it is often praised for having some of the most beautiful beaches in the UK. It is reachable by ferry, and a few days there won't break the bank.

Christian added: "The Isle of Wight is perfect for families, with ferry-inclusive holiday park breaks from £250 to £350 for a three-night break. It has more than 80 family attractions ranging from tap‑to‑feed farms to fossil-hunting beaches.

"Couples adore the coastal walking trails such as the Tennyson Trail, and smaller guesthouses provide accommodation from only £60 per night."

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