English beauty spot with ‘excellent hiking trails’ crowned best area for a staycation

hikers on walking trail and stock image of lake district

The Lake District has been crowned the best spot in the UK for a staycation

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Solen Le Net

By Solen Le Net


Published: 02/05/2024

- 13:23

Updated: 06/05/2024

- 11:43

The Lake District is a huge hit with luxury lovers, according to new data

With two bank holidays ahead, many Britons will be gearing up for an adventure-filled break. Defender Destinations Index has whittled down the top destinations in the UK for a spring getaway.

Their findings put the Lake District at the top of the index of best destinations in Great Britain, suggesting it will be a hit with luxury lovers.


The popularity of each location was based on how many five-star hotels, golf clubs, Michelin-star restaurants and wellness retreats, and hiking trails they boast.

“The Lake District is crowned the ultimate upmarket staycation destination in the index due to its humble population of just over 40,000, as well as its 10 5-star hotels, 18 Michelin Guide Restaurants, five 5-star golf clubs,” the findings showed.

Keswick Lake District

The Lake District is home to some of the nation's most scenic walking trails

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The region also flaunts 25 luxury spa and wellness centres, as well as “32 excellent hiking trailers”.

The index highlighted the five following destinations for those seeking an unforgettable staycation:

Lake District

Known for its scenic landscapes, the Lake District in Cumbria takes the top spot overall for the best remote luxury destination in Great Britain.

Filled with mountains and lakes, there are over 32 highly rated walks over woods and waters to discover and 23 National Trust locations to see including Grasmere, Fell Foot and Wray Castle.

New Forest

In Southern England, you will find the New Forest National Park in Hampshire, which comes in second.

With a low population but a larger number of extraordinary trails in the area, these are remote natural havens of the British territory for those who want to go off the beaten track.

Cotswolds

Coming in third place is the Cotswolds, where scores of Michelin-rated restaurants are scattered across the area’s charming towns and villages.

Argyll and Bute

In Scotland, seek out the secluded destination of Argyll and Bute, which comes out on top for the country.

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landscape in NEw Forest

New Forest came in second place

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The region boasts a wealth of National Trusts to explore, including the mountain of Ben Lomond and small inhabited islands.

Pembrokeshire

In South-West Wales, you’ll find Pembrokeshire, a hotspot for National Trusts, including the rugged cliffs of Strumble Head and St Davids, the smallest city in the UK.

Escape to this coastal county for a selection of five-star hotels to kick back in or a handful of spa and wellness retreats to pamper yourself with.

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