The Lake District town of Ambleside has claimed the top spot as Britain's most sought-after holiday destination for 2026, according to fresh booking figures.
Travellers can't resist the stunning waterfront setting and easy access to Windermere, with one TikTok user telling her nearly 14,000 followers she was "obsessed with this quaint town".
Coming in second is Bakewell in the Peak District, beloved for its famous tart and charming market town atmosphere. This is according to new booking data from holidaycottages.co.uk.
The Cornish harbour village of Porthleven rounds out the top three. But it's not just about where people are heading – it is who they're bringing along for the ride.
Ambleside was at the top of the list
|HOLIDAY COTTAGES
Nearly half of all bookings made so far this year include a four-legged friend, with 45 per cent of holidaymakers refusing to leave their dogs behind.
Larger properties are proving a hit too, with accommodation sleeping between eight and 11 guests, showing a popularity in travellers planning group getaways.
Britons are already keen to get away in spring, as the holiday lettings agency data showed bookings for the warmer months - including the May half-term period - are already filling up.
Winter remains a peak time for people planning their escapes, with 2026 shaping up to be a year of exploring the beauty of the UK.
UK BREAKS
10 most booked destinations for 2026
- Ambleside
- Bakewell
- Porthleven
- Alnwick
- Beadnell
- Keswick
- Aldeburgh
- Holt
- Harrogate
- Padstow
The list showcases a mix of what Britain does best - from the peaceful lakes of Cumbria to the rugged Northumberland coastline. Alnwick, sitting in fourth place, draws visitors with its famous castle, which served as a filming location for Harry Potter and Downton Abbey.
Bakewell has been recommended as Britons start to plan their 2026 getaways
|HOLIDAY COTTAGES
The Cornish harbour village of Porthleven rounds out the top three
|HOLIDAY COTTAGES
Meanwhile, the pretty village of Beadnell in fifth spot offers a gorgeous crescent-shaped beach and fantastic water sports opportunities. Coastal Suffolk, charming Norfolk, elegant Yorkshire and foodie-favourite Cornwall all feature in the top 10.
More From GB News