New research from credit card brand Aqua has compared destinations across the UK to reveal the best staycation destinations for holidaymakers to choose from this spring. According to a 2025 survey, 8 in 10 UK residents have been on a staycation across the country. So, from coastal towns to bustling cities, which destination is the best for a springtime staycation in the UK?
To find the most viral UK staycations, the experts analysed Google search data and Instagram tags for each location to identify the most desirable destinations, and the North West can be very proud of its prowess.
Manchester & the Lake District named UK’s most ‘viral’ staycations
Manchester came third in the rankings, claiming 20.6 million Instagram posts under #Manchester and 508,000 annual Google searches for visiting and staying in the city. Manchester remains a travel-worthy destination, thanks to its music heritage, bustling nightlife, and strong football culture – and we aren’t going to argue with that logic.
Coming in fifth, the Lake District racks up 4.7 million Instagram posts and 407,760 annual searches. Perhaps in a surprisingly low position, the Lake District constantly hits top places in practically every ranking, for its stunning scenery, traditional high streets and outdoor activities, and since we can access it fairly easily from Manchester, you’ll definitely catch us there sometime soon.
Blackpool is the most affordable UK staycation
Blackpool tops the list as the UK’s most affordable staycation, with hotel stays averaging just £80 per night. April temperatures are pleasant at 8.9°C, with relatively low rainfall (48.7mm).
Known for its attractions like the iconic 158-metre Blackpool Tower, Pleasure Beach and the Golden Mile promenade, the seaside town is ideal for families looking for a fun yet affordable beach holiday. And for us in Manchester, we’re no strangers to popping over to the left coast of a summer’s day – even if that means fish and chips in the rain.
The UK’s most viral staycation destinations (with Instagram hashtag volume)
- London: 173,000,000
- Edinburgh: 12,100,000
- Manchester: 20,600,000
- Liverpool: 18,600,000
- Lake District: 4,700,000
- Brighton: 8,600,000
- Dublin: 15,400,000
- Blackpool: 1,800,000
- Glasgow: 9,300,000
- Stratford-upon-Avon: 549,000