As summer approaches, many families are looking for the perfect getaway, and recent studies have revealed some surprising trends in the staycation landscape across the UK. Oxford has emerged as one of the top destinations for a peaceful retreat, while Blackpool Pleasure Beach has been crowned the ultimate boredom-buster for children, even outperforming renowned theme parks like Disney and Universal.
According to a recent analysis by Aqua, Oxford ranks as the 10th best staycation spot in the UK, celebrated for its "mix of culture, history, and comfort." The city is particularly appealing for those seeking a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. With average accommodation costs at £101 and pleasant spring temperatures averaging 9.9°C, Oxford offers a charming option for weekend getaways. The city's appeal is further underscored by moderate rainfall of 48.6mm and a staggering five million Instagram posts, alongside 114,000 monthly searches, highlighting its continued popularity.
Earlier this year, Oxford was also recognized as one of the top five staycation destinations for 2025, reinforcing its status as a favored choice among British travelers. Recent data indicates that 76% of Brits prefer to take at least one staycation each year, making Oxford's ranking even more significant.
However, while Oxford attracts those looking for culture and history, families with children are gravitating towards more interactive experiences. A new study from AttractionTickets.com has revealed that Blackpool Pleasure Beach has topped the list of boredom-busting destinations for families in 2025, surpassing iconic venues like Walt Disney World and Universal Orlando. Out of the top ten spots, a remarkable 70% were theme parks, indicating a clear preference among youngsters for immersive holiday experiences.
The research, which analyzed hundreds of thousands of reviews from over 160 popular holiday destinations, led to the creation of The Banish Boredom Index. This index identifies the best holiday spots for families seeking to keep their children entertained. Blackpool Pleasure Beach scored highest overall, showcasing its ability to engage kids and keep them off screens.
Oliver Brendon, CEO of AttractionTickets.com, commented on the findings, stating, "Nowadays, keeping children entertained on holiday is more challenging than ever. With many kids accustomed to the instant gratification of iPad games and interactive television shows, traditional holiday moments, such as lounging by the pool or playing on the beach, often aren’t enough to hold their attention." He further emphasized that destinations like Blackpool Pleasure Beach offer high levels of interactivity and imagination, which are crucial for creating meaningful family moments.
In addition to Blackpool Pleasure Beach, the top ten boredom-busting destinations included Walt Disney World in second place and Universal Orlando in third. Other notable mentions were Chessington World of Adventure in Surrey, Universal Studios Hollywood in California, and Thorpe Park in Surrey.
As families look for ways to break free from the screens this summer, the data suggests that swapping Wi-Fi for rides and real-world excitement is key to banishing boredom. Whether opting for a staycation in a cultural hub like Oxford or an adventurous trip to a theme park, families are clearly prioritizing experiences that foster connection and engagement.
Meanwhile, Northumberland has also made its mark as a top staycation destination, coming in fourth place according to Aqua's analysis. With average spring temperatures of 10.7°C and low rainfall of 39mm, Northumberland offers a great environment for exploring its historic sites and coastal walks. The region's accommodation averages £136, and it boasts 1.8 million Instagram posts and 38,000 monthly searches, showcasing its natural beauty and drawing attention from travelers.
The growing trend of staycations reflects a shift in how British families are choosing to vacation, with many opting for local getaways that provide both relaxation and adventure. With Oxford, Blackpool, and Northumberland leading the charge, it’s clear that the UK is rich with opportunities for memorable family experiences.
As the May Bank Holiday approaches, these destinations are set to welcome visitors eager to explore what the UK has to offer. Whether it's soaking in the history and culture of Oxford, enjoying the thrills of Blackpool Pleasure Beach, or discovering the scenic beauty of Northumberland, there's something for every family looking to create lasting memories this year.
