Have you planned a staycation for this year?
A recent survey from research agency Mintel suggested that a total of £7.1 billion will be spent on staycations between July and September.
Luckily for the people of Yorkshire, there are plenty of dreamy staycation destinations right on our doorstep.
What are the current rules around holidays and staycations?
Currently, staycations and holidays abroad are not allowed.
When it comes to domestic holidays in the UK Mr Johnson outlined that these can go ahead no earlier than April 12.
Foreign trips will not be allowed until May 17 at the earliest.
A ban on leaving the United Kingdom without a reasonable excuse is included in new coronavirus laws coming into force next week.
According to the Government’s legal document: “The Regulations also impose restrictions on leaving the United Kingdom without a reasonable excuse (regulation 8).”
The law says no-one may “leave England to travel to a destination outside the United Kingdom, or travel to, or be present at, an embarkation point for the purpose of travelling from there to a destination outside the United Kingdom” without a reasonable excuse.
It suggests anyone who breaks such rules could face a £5,000 fine.
Top rated staycations on Booking.com
With the help of Booking.com, we can reveal where the most popular staycation destinations in Yorkshire are.
When compare to last year’s booking figure, these destinations have seen a significant increase in travel searches since the latest announcement on lockdown easing.
In fact, booking.com data suggests there are 10 Yorkshire towns and cities within the top 100 most sought-after domestic destinations for 2021 including York, Whitby, Scarborough, and Sheffield.
Further to this, their data can reveal that West Yorkshire is one of the top searched regions for a staycation this year in the UK, with the likes of Bradford and Leeds seeing an increased interest.
Here are five popular West Yorkshire towns and cities to consider staying after lockdown, according to booking.com.
Halifax
(Shibden Hall, Halifax
cc-by-sa/2.0 - © Alexander P Kapp - geograph.org.uk/p/1804047)
This historic market and minster town is in the borough of Calerdale.
If you are looking for culture, then this is a fantastic little place to visit.
Shibden Hall and Bankfield Museum are just some of the top-rated attractions and places to visit in the area.
After a day of exploring, make sure to grab a bite to eat at the Pride and Provenance or Denman’s Restaurant.
Where to stay in Halifax:
8.9 guest rating
This listed Jacobean manor Holdsworth House has been transformed into a beautiful hotel. Featuring mature gardens and hidden terraces, this charming hotel has hosted a number of celebrities from the Beatles to Jayne Mansfield.
Leeds
(Grand Theatre, New Briggate, Leeds
cc-by-sa/2.0 - © Stephen Richards - geograph.org.uk/p/2741934)
This bustling city is ideal for people who want an adventure.
There are endless things to do, including visiting Pixel Bar, watching a show at the Leeds Grand Theatre.
However, it’s also quite a beautiful city filled with hidden gem beauty spots and scenic gardens.
While you are here, make sure to stop by Roundhay Park or Kirkstall Abbey.
Where to stay in Leeds:
9.7 guest rating
According to booking.com, this is one of the most popular places to stay in West Yorkshire.
These luxury stylish apartments are ideally located in the heart of Leeds. Featuring 58 boutique apartments, a library, bar, gym and courtyard, Chambers Park Place provides all the modern comforts you need for stay in Leeds.
Wetherby
(Wetherby Racecourse
cc-by-sa/2.0 - © David Hebb - geograph.org.uk/p/473213)
When lockdown is over, head out for a day at the races at Wetherby Racecourse- you could even make a weekend of it.
Braham Park is also a popular attraction here along with The Georgian Bath House.
Where to stay in Wetherby:
Wood Hall Hotel & Spa
8.5 guest rating
At the end of a long drive surrounded by 100 acres of woodland and manicured lawns, this 18th century Georgian country house has been turned into a smart hotel with contemporary interiors. This four-star hotel features a 2 AA Rosette restaurant as well as a health club and spa, and is a particular favourite for couples.
Huddersfield
(Quarry face and pond, Beaumont Park, Huddersfield
cc-by-sa/2.0 - © Humphrey Bolton - geograph.org.uk/p/6639879)
Huddersfield is the perfect family-friendly destination.
According to the Visit Huddersfield website, it is a “true Yorkshire town with bags of charm”.
It is the birthplace of Rugby League, home to over 1,600 listed buildings and was voted the third happiest place to live in the UK.
This colourful market town showcases an impressive legacy that today has evolved into an exciting hotbed of contemporary activity.
After lockdown, make sure to visit Beaumont Park or even take a trip to the Tolson Museum.
Where to stay in Huddersfield:
Manor House Lindley
9.4 guest rating
This 5-star boutique hotel provides an excellent retreat to escape to the West Yorkshire countryside. Featuring an outdoor dining roof terrace, yoga studio and exceptional restaurant, the Manor House will give you a taste of heritage and luxury.
Bradford
(Photo: Cottongrass on Ilkley Moor
cc-by-sa/2.0 - © Andrew Whale - geograph.org.uk/p/2418035)
Also on the booking.com list is Bradford.
The district is full of surprises, combining the hustle and bustle of city life with the more relaxed countryside locations.
Settle down for a show at The Alhambra Theatre or take an invigorating walk on Ilkley Moor.
Where to stay in Bradford:
The Midland Hotel, Sure Hotel Collection by Best Western, Bradford
8.7 guest rating
Ideally located in the city centre, this hotel contrasts Victorian opulence with modern day comforts. The Midland Hotel features ballrooms, regular entertainment, and spacious bedrooms.
You might not want to book a hotel if you live in Bradford, but it’s a great recommendation for any friends who come up to explore the city for the weekend after lockdown.
Have you booked a staycation this year?
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