Last year, 52 per cent of Britons chose to holiday in the UK, with charming countryside and hidden gems offering endless appeal.
Looking for somewhere new to discover this year? Experts have found five lesser-known spots to enjoy a break without the crowds.
Experts at cottages.com devised the UK Staycation Index to name the top five spots, based on factors like search volume, last-minute rental availability, pubs per 100 square miles and Instagram-worthy scenery, among others.
Mendip Hills in south west England ranked at the top, with 619 hiking trails and 22 available properties to rent.
Mendip Hills is a great option to beat the crowds
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Marketing director at cottages.com Richard Banks said: “Exploring the countryside offers a powerful way to reconnect with the natural beauty and cultural heritage that surrounds us. It supports local communities, encourages more sustainable travel, and nurtures a stronger sense of place and personal wellbeing.
"From gentle hills to secluded valleys, the UK’s rural landscapes provide enriching experiences that rival even the most exotic getaways. Often, the most meaningful journeys are those that lead us back to the wonders of home.”
Underrated staycation gems
- Mendip Hills
- Nidderdale
- Exmoor
- Howardian Hills
- North Pennies
Mendip Hills - South West England
Experts from the travel company said: "Dramatic gorges and easy-going trails, the Mendip Hills are Somerset’s best-kept secret. With sites like Cheddar Gorge and Wookey Hole, this AONB makes for a thrilling last-minute trip full of exploration and family-friendly fun, minus the tourist crowds.
"The Mendips aren’t just beautiful, they’re geologically extraordinary. Whether you're delving into caves lit like cathedrals or following secret limestone paths carved by water and time, it’s a landscape layered with wonder.
"With 619 hiking trails and routes made for both cycling and walking, the Mendips are a playground for explorers. Climb to Crook Peak for sweeping views to the Bristol Channel, or follow woodland paths lined with wild garlic and bluebells in spring.
"Just 40 minutes from Bristol, and yet worlds away, the Mendips are perfectly placed for a quick reset. With low search volumes and 22 available properties, it’s often skipped by crowds, making it a dream destination for last-minute planners who want exploration without the queues."
Exmoor - South West England
The travel pros added: "Tucked between North Devon and West Somerset, Exmoor is one of the UK’s true wildernesses. It is a land of mythic coastlines, ancient moors, and cosmic skies. Come for the rugged drama of Lynton and Lynmouth, stay for the uninterrupted stars and warm village pubs.
STAYCATION TIPS
North Pennines was in the top 3 list
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"Exmoor was the first place in Europe to be designated a Dark Sky Reserve, and for good reason. With barely any light pollution, the night here is velvet-black and full of stars. Bring a blanket, lie back on the heather, and watch the Milky Way reveal itself. No booking required and no sound but the owls.
"From the craggy grandeur of the Valley of the Rocks, where feral goats scale limestone cliffs, to the sea-smashed shores of Lynmouth and Porlock, Exmoor is coastal walking at its most cinematic. Ideal for romantic escapes, solo resets, or family adventures, Exmoor delivers unexpected wonder."
North Pennines - North of England
The experts said: "This UNESCO Global Geopark is rugged, remote, and totally restorative. With trails that seem designed for reflection and views that stretch for miles, North Pennies is the perfect destination for those who decide last minute that they need space and meaning.
"Few sights refresh quite like the cascade of High Force or the misty veil of Cauldron Snout. These spectacular waterfalls, tucked in deep valleys, feel like nature’s own cathedrals; places to pause, breathe, and reconnect.
"In spring and summer, the hills bloom with rare orchids, bluebells, and heather. Birds like curlews and red grouse fill the skies. The North Pennines’ rich ecosystems invite quiet observation, perfect for photographers and nature lovers alike.
"With just over 50 properties available for spontaneous bookings, these cottages are havens of peace. Perfect for those craving solitude and soul-stirring scenery."
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