Folkestone Leads the Way for Staycation in the UK Folkestone, a coastal town in Kent, has emerged as the top destination for 2025 staycations in the UK. According to a ranking released by a prominent travel platform, Folkestone’s vibrant indie shops, dynamic culinary scene, and sweeping beach made it a standout. The town’s cultural richness, exemplified by the celebrated Folkestone Triennial art festival, helped seal its top position, showcasing the growing appeal of this scenic town.
Rising Destinations in London and Stoke-on-Trent Not far behind Folkestone, London’s Stratford grabbed the second spot. Its new cultural offerings, such as Sadler’s Wells East and the V&A East Storehouse, are set to bolster its reputation as a cultural hub, further drawing visitors. The creative potential in Stratford’s cultural scene continues to grow, promising visitors new experiences in the heart of London’s transformation.
Stoke-on-Trent secured third place, with its long-standing ceramic legacy and oatcake heritage contributing to the city’s increasing popularity. A blend of artistic and culinary traditions makes Stoke-on-Trent a charming destination, attracting visitors interested in craft, history, and local flavors.
Scotland and Wales Shine in the Rankings In Scotland, Orkney, known for its ancient Neolithic archaeology, was listed as the fourth-best place to visit in 2025. Its unique historical sites offer visitors a glimpse into the country’s ancient past, complemented by scenic landscapes. Glasgow followed closely in 15th place, thanks to its vibrant music scene and world-class concert venues, making it a cultural hotspot for 2025.
The Welsh capital, Cardiff, held the ninth spot on the list, highlighted by its artistic and cultural events. Its thriving arts community, combined with the beauty of nearby natural attractions, keeps Cardiff in the hearts of those exploring new destinations in the UK.
The Global Impact of Emerging UK Destinations The increasing popularity of these lesser-known destinations signifies a broader shift in travel trends. As more people seek destinations that offer rich cultural experiences, natural beauty, and less commercialized settings, these towns and cities are gaining global recognition.
- Folkestone and Stratford: Attracting international tourists keen on experiencing the creative arts.
- Stoke-on-Trent and Orkney: Serving as highlights for history and craftsmanship lovers.
- Cardiff and Glasgow: Demonstrating the growing value of music, culture, and festival tourism in the UK.
As the UK continues to see a surge in interest for domestic travel, these destinations will shape a future where staycations rival overseas vacations in terms of attraction and cultural significance.
Why These Places Are Gaining Popularity These destinations have proven that travel doesn’t always need to be exotic to be memorable. The rise of Folkestone and Stratford reflects a broader cultural trend where tourists are searching for destinations with history, local charm, and authenticity. The inclusion of cities like Glasgow and Orkney on this list reveals a growing interest in arts, archaeology, and cultural immersion.
- Cultural Festivals: Such as Folkestone Triennial and the art-focused initiatives in Stratford.
- Arts and Music: Glasgow and Cardiff, with their thriving cultural scenes, lead the pack for immersive experiences.
- Culinary Experiences: Stoke-on-Trent’s ceramics and culinary traditions are helping redefine the food tourism industry.
This ranking of the top 15 places in the UK for 2025 highlights a noticeable shift in the tourism landscape. Folkestone’s top placement reflects the growing appeal of off-the-beaten-path destinations, while Stratford, Stoke-on-Trent, and cities like Glasgow continue to offer an expanding array of experiences that blend art, culture, and history. For travelers both local and international, these towns offer the perfect blend of accessible, rich, and culturally immersive destinations.
The post United Kingdom’s Top Staycation Spots Why Are Folkestone, Stratford, Stoke-on-Trent, and Glasgow Rising to the Top as Must Visit Locations? appeared first on Travel And Tour World.
