Welcome to Yorkshire
Despite a summer filled with staycations, many Brits are missing out on some of the UK's most iconic destinations. Recent research from Parkdean Resorts revealed that a surprising 24% of Brits have never visited Yorkshire, making it one of the most overlooked regions in the country.
Exploring the UK
The study highlights a trend of people returning to familiar holiday spots rather than venturing out to discover new places. In fact, over half of those surveyed, about 57%, admitted that they frequently revisit the same locations. This trend is particularly evident among Millennials, who, despite being the most likely age group to take staycations, are also the least well-travelled generation. Only 4% of Brits believe they have seen the best of what the UK has to offer, indicating a significant opportunity for exploration.
PD12 Road Trip Route
In response to these findings, Parkdean Resorts has launched the PD12, a new road trip route inspired by the famous Route 66 in America. This initiative aims to encourage Brits to explore lesser-known but stunning parts of the UK, including Yorkshire, Scotland, and Northern England. The PD12 includes twelve scenic stops that showcase some of the country’s most beautiful landscapes and attractions.
Highlights of the PD12 route include:
The picturesque shores of Loch Lomond in Scotland
The historic sites of Edinburgh
Bamburgh Castle in Northumberland
The charming cobbled streets of York’s Shambles
The dramatic Ribblehead Viaduct in Yorkshire
Each of these attractions is conveniently located near a Parkdean Resort, allowing families to enjoy comfortable accommodation while exploring the area.
Statistics on Travel Trends
The survey also revealed that 26% of Brits have never visited Scotland or the North East, making these regions the joint most overlooked destinations in the UK. The North West is also on the list, with 24% of people admitting they have never been there. The findings illustrate a pattern where many Brits are missing out on the breathtaking coastlines, national parks, and historic cities that the North of Britain has to offer.
Interestingly, Londoners appear to be the least likely to explore the North East, with nearly 30% stating they have never visited. This is surprising, considering the North East boasts beautiful beaches, stunning landscapes, and attractions in cities like Newcastle and Durham.
The Age Factor in Staycations
Age seems to play a significant role in holiday habits. The survey found that as people get older, they are less likely to take UK holidays. Almost 31% of Baby Boomers, those aged 62 to 80, have not been on a UK break in the last five years. In contrast, every member of Generation Z surveyed reported having taken at least one trip in the UK in the past three years.
Most Visited Regions
When it comes to the most visited regions in the UK, Greater London tops the list, with a staggering 91% of adults saying they’ve been there. Following London, Wales is the second most popular destination, attracting 83% of Brits, thanks to its dramatic landscapes and historical sites. The South West, known for its coastal counties of Devon and Cornwall, rounds out the top three with millions of visitors each year.
Encouraging Domestic Travel
Anthony Reilly, Chief Marketing Officer at Parkdean Resorts, expressed the importance of exploring local destinations. "While social media often inspires us to chase new destinations around the world, there are still huge parts of the UK that millions of people have never experienced," he remarked. The PD12 route is designed to inspire people to step outside their usual holiday habits and discover parts of Britain they may have overlooked.
With so much to see and do, Yorkshire and its neighbouring regions offer a wealth of experiences for those willing to venture off the beaten path. The PD12 road trip is not just a chance to visit beautiful places but also an opportunity to create lasting memories with family and friends.
As many people seek adventure closer to home, the encouragement to explore Yorkshire and its hidden gems has never been more relevant. With stunning landscapes, rich history, and unique attractions waiting to be discovered, it’s clear that Yorkshire deserves a spot on everyone’s travel list.
