The Five UK Travel Trends That Have Defined 2026 So Far

People value privacy and their own schedule, particularly when they have worked hard to pay for the trip, and it involves using their precious annual leave – this is a huge shift from the pre-pandemic preference of catered hotels. In 2023, an Expedia Group survey found that 68% of UK travellers valued kitchen access in their accommodation, regardless of the destination. With that in mind, all-singing, all-dancing kitchens and outdoor dining areas will be a big draw.

Where to stay? Ravenscourt for the spacious kitchen of dreams, or Sea Purse for unbeatable sea views while you cook.

It’s no longer enough to offer just the fundamentals. Today’s travellers will be searching for somewhere with the right ‘vibe’ for the perfect escape. Think ambient lighting, curated interiors, and standout ‘staying in’ features like home cinemas and saunas.

Where to stay? Pebbles for interiors right out of the pages of Arch Digest, The Admiral Penn for original artworks, and a dedicated cinema room, or Downs Cottage for an interior like no other with a sauna in the garden.

Following on from the quiet calm of shoulder season, buzzwords such as ‘digital detox,’ ‘off-grid,’ and ‘hushpitality’ remain popular among Brits taking staycations in 2026. This may continue to develop as people stray from the madding crowd following TikTok travel trends and oversaturated hotspots that have fallen victim to viral social media content. As a result, off-grid stays with no neighbours and calming views remain popular.

Where to stay? Retreat to Woodman’s Cottage for a storybook stay on the edge of the woods, be charmed by the scenic surrounds of Water Farm House, or browse our other stays in the calming countryside.