Many beautiful parts of the UK offer relaxing stays against scenic backdrops

Whether it is a family holiday, a solo escape or a weekend away with friends, many Britons are looking for a staycation where they can truly switch off.

New research has revealed the UK's most relaxing destinations for 2026, with the Devon seaside town of Salcombe taking the top spot.

Researchers at JoJo Maman Bébé analysed more than 30 popular UK destinations, ranking them using factors including hotel quality, restaurant ratings, spa and wellness facilities, local attractions and elevation to identify the country's most peaceful places to visit.

Salcombe scored 7.94 out of 10, with more than half (51.2 per cent) of its 43 hotels rated four stars or above.

The coastal town also boasts spa and wellness facilities, highly-rated restaurants and plenty of attractions, making it an ideal destination for travellers hoping to relax without running out of things to do.

Top 10 most relaxing staycation destinations 2026

Lyme Regis in Dorset claimed second place, with 65.5 per cent of its 142 hotels awarded four stars or higher.

TRAVEL INSPIRATION

It also had the largest proportion of highly rated restaurants among the top five destinations, with more than 93 per cent receiving four-star ratings.

Southwold in Suffolk completed the top three, offering visitors a quieter seaside escape. Researchers said its relatively flat landscape, alongside its highly rated restaurants and accommodation, makes it particularly well suited to those seeking a slower pace of life.

In the north, the Lake District also performed strongly, with both Grasmere and Windermere making the top five.

Grasmere stood out for having the highest proportion of four-star hotels with spa and wellness facilities among the leading destinations, while Windermere offers visitors the greatest choice of accommodation and attractions.

The findings suggest coastal destinations continue to dominate when it comes to peaceful UK breaks, with four of the top six locations found by the sea.

Meanwhile, the Lake District remains a favourite for those seeking scenic landscapes, walking routes and spa hotels.

For more UK break inspiration, experts rounded up the "breathtaking but often forgotten" staycation dupes.