A poll of 2,000 adults who have holidayed in the UK found 61% consider a pub to be essential for the perfect break. Ideally it should offer traditional pub grub, a cosy interior and a beer garden with scenic views. Local ales, a roaring fire and live music or entertainment are also desirable, as is being dog friendly. And 42% prefer a 'proper local' over a more touristy option.
Survey Highlights and New Collection
The study was commissioned by cottages.com, which has teamed up with broadcaster and countryside advocate Clare Balding to unveil its Pub Walk Collection. The collection features a carefully curated range of pub walks, incorporating more lesser-known trails.
Clare said: "A proper pub walk is a much-loved British tradition. For me, the perfect route is four to six miles with dramatic scenery, ending at a great local pub. It's fantastic to see that our appetite for adventure has grown and we want to help people discover the lesser-known corners of the UK that make a staycation truly special."
Some of the most memorable parts of a break can come from taking a different turn, chatting to locals and discovering places which aren't on every itinerary.
Growing Sense of Adventure
The research also revealed that 46% believe people's sense of adventure has significantly grown over the past decade, and 51% would rather explore lesser-known locations than frequent renowned tourist attractions. In addition to this, 32% of 18 to 34-year-olds favour what could be deemed a 'hidden gem' over famous destinations, with nearly a quarter actively seeking out spots which haven't become swamped with tourists.
When questioned about top holiday priorities, value for money came out on top with 49%, followed by good weather (34%), ease of access (31%), excellent local walks (28%) and tranquil, crowd-free environments (28%).
Social Media vs. Relaxation
As many as 70% said peace and relaxation matter more than how a destination looks on social media when choosing where to go. However, 34% had visited a restaurant, beach or landmark specifically because they saw it on social media, according to OnePoll.com figures.
A spokesperson for cottages.com added: "Britain's best holidays aren't always about travelling further, they're about discovering more. Whether it's finding a beautiful new walking route, stumbling across a fantastic village pub or exploring somewhere you've never visited before, those moments are often what people remember most. Our research shows people are looking for experiences that feel authentic and help them connect with the places they're visiting."
Top Pub Walk Collection Routes
- Peak District – e.g. Bamford Edge, Goyt Valley Heritage Walk, Youlgreave: Land of the Druids.
- Yorkshire (Dales or Moors) – e.g. Settle: to the top and round, Richmond and Easby Abbey, The Coast Path & Larpool Viaduct.
- Lake District – e.g. Walla Crag and Derwentwater, Cockermouth to Papcastle and the River Derwent, Kendal to Sizergh Castle.
- Northumberland – e.g. Corbridge, Tyne River and hills, Morpeth and the River Wansbeck, Castles and Kippers, Embleton Bay.
- Wales and Welsh Borders – e.g. Conwy Valley views, Wintour's Leap, Mumbles and Langland Bay.
- Cornwall – e.g. Boscastle Discovery, Looe to Polperro and back, Kynance Cove and Lizard Point.
- Scottish Borders – e.g. Kelso Abbey and the Teviot, Melrose and the Eildon Hill.
- Scottish Highlands – e.g. Pitlochry, Killiecrankie and the River Garry, Fort William and Inverlochy Castle.
- Norfolk – Aldborough The Three Churches, Salthouse and Cley Marshes, Norfolk Broads Waterways and Woodlands.
