Top staycation destinations for 2025

Planning a staycation this year? Not sure where to go? Get your holiday juices flowing with our guide.

Northumberland might not have the staycation star power of Cornwall, say, or Edinburgh. But for those in the know, it's the perfect place to rest, recuperate and recharge.

Yes, Northumberland may as well be called 'Do-it-later-land'. As soon as you set foot on its broad, rolling moorlands and scarcely beaten tracks, you'll know what we mean. It's a landscape that echoes with ancient wisdom. "Come. Explore", it booms. "That marketing report can wait until next Wednesday. Or next year. Hey, look – a castle."

It's a vast and beautiful place with plenty to reward curious travellers. And best of all, it's just as gorgeous in January as it is at the height of summer. Fancy saving a pinch with an out-of-season staycation? Put Northumberland at the top of your wishlist.

2. The Yorkshire Dales

Ah, the Dales. Few settings have inspired such lyrical prose.

Just look to the works of James Herriot. Or Charles Kingsley. Or Diane Allen. All have, in their own way, paid tribute to its heather-carpeted moors and endless valleys.

We can't promise you'll have composed a pocketbook full of poetry by the time your staycation's over. But if you enjoy long hikes and life-affirming landscapes, we can guarantee a good time.

It's not all about contemplation and constitutions, though. The Dales offers plenty for families and fun-seekers, ranging from underground caves to ancient ruins to llama trekking. (Llama trekking, people.)

You can't go wrong with a staycation in the Dales, basically. Chalk this one down as a "good all-rounder".

3. The Scottish Borders

OK. Saying "Take a staycation in the Scottish Borders" is a bit like saying "Let's meet at the equator". The Anglo-Scottish border stretches for 96 miles, so you'll have to settle on one spot unless you're planning a coast-to-coast road trip.

But the good news is that there are lots of stunning spots to choose from.

Berwick is the big one. This market town sits just on the southern side of the border and has changed hands between the English and the Scots at least 13 times. Thanks to this tug-of-war, the town has developed an identity all of its own – a little English, a little Scottish, all distinctly Berwickian.

Then there's Melrose, with its ruined medieval abbey and centuries of history. And Peebles, with its artsy shops and literary connections. And Kelso. And Galashiels. And the rest. It's a chocolate box.

4. The Peak District

The Peak District was recently named one of the UK's top 10 out-of-season holiday destinations.

The rankings were compiled based on affordability, popularity and the variety of things to do – and the Peak District managed a not-too-shabby second place. That's saying something considering it was up against tough competition like North Yorkshire and Northumberland. 

A good choice, then, for money-savvy staycationers who don't mind a bit of drizzle. But logistics and economics aside, what does the Peak District have to offer?

The clue's in the name: peaks. Lots and lots of breathtaking, awe-inspiring, try-to-remember-this-view-forever peaks.

See, the Peak District is centred on the southernmost expanse of the Pennines: those majestic uplands that bubble up from the earth between Derbyshire and the River Tyne.

If you love a good landscape, you won't find anything better until you hit the Scottish Highlands. Simply spectacular.

5. Newcastle upon Tyne

Think "staycation" and you probably picture a stone cottage, a trickling brook and a good book. For many, it's about escaping the city and finding solace in a sleepy corner of the UK.

However, it's well worth considering an urban staycation – especially when you've got options like Newcastle at your disposal.

Sure, we're biased. Newcastle upon Tyne is our home – and we love it. But even if we weren't proud Geordies, we're sure we'd still be recommending it.

See, we hate to repeat a cliché, but Newcastle really does have something for everyone.

For a start, there's more history in this city than in most museums. You've got the tautologically named Newcastle Castle, of course. And the seven famous bridges that span the equally famous Tyne.

But then you go exploring and discover gems like the Victoria Tunnel – a 19th-century waggon-way stretching from the Tyne to the Town Moor. And Bessie Surtees House, which stands out like a 16th-century thumb on the city's thriving Quayside.

Not a history fan? Not a problem. Just head to one of our many buzzing pubs and bars. Or check out the artsy hotspots of Ouseburn and Jesmond.

We could go on. But you'd have more fun if you discovered it all for yourself. See you up the toon!

Why not make it a road trip?

Sure, trains and plains are convenient – when they run on time, at least.

But nothing beats the pure freedom of a fresh set of wheels.

So, why not turn your staycation adventure into a bona fide road trip? That way, you'll be free to set your own schedule, sing along to your own soundtrack and take any detour that catches your eye.

If that sounds like your idea of a good time, we're here for it. At MVH Rental, we're proud to be among the most trusted (and most affordable) Newcastle car rental firms.

All vehicles go through a full valet and safety check before you ever see the keys. For you, this means starting your holiday in comfort, style and confidence.

Why not browse our cars online or give us a call on (0191) 4888 700? You can always expect friendly service and a very competitive quote.