The Top UK Summer Bucket List Experiences: Yorkshire's Sculpture Park and Beyond

The enchanting Yorkshire Sculpture Park in West Bretton near Wakefield, has captured the interest of holidaymakers this summer, ranking tenth in a newly compiled list of top UK summer experiences.

This ranking is part of a study conducted by UK travel expert Richard Madden in collaboration with Sykes Holiday Cottages, which surveyed 2,000 adults to uncover the ultimate UK summer bucket list.

The Appeal of Staycations

The research by Sykes Holiday Cottages highlights that summer remains the favourite season for Brits to holiday within the UK, with nearly half (48%) of respondents planning a staycation during the warmer months. Moreover, the findings reveal that a growing number of Brits (29%) now seek adventure more than they did five years ago, with a significant majority (78%) determined to explore more of their homeland.

Graham Donoghue, CEO of Sykes Holiday Cottages, commented on the findings:

“Our research shows that Brits’ desire for adventure is stronger than ever. With the school summer holidays just around the corner, now is the perfect time to explore more of our country. A summer bucket list is a fantastic way to see more of our nation and reconnect with family and friends. From Scotland and Hampshire to Norfolk and Wiltshire, there are numerous stunning locations to visit, offering experiences for all weather conditions – which is particularly useful given the unpredictable British summer.”

Curated by Travel Experts

Award-winning travel writer Richard Madden added:

“Choosing which summer activities are essential can be challenging with so much on offer in the UK. Our seasonal bucket list provides a wonderful opportunity for holidaymakers to experience some of the country’s highlights, from breathtaking beaches and diverse wildlife to prehistoric monuments, famous landscapes, and grand country estates.”

For more details on Sykes' UK summer bucket list, including the top 15 experiences and an interactive map, visit Sykes Holiday Cottages Blog.

Top 10 UK Summer Experiences

1. Driving along the Isle of Arran’s coast, Scotland - Experience the scenic coastal drive with panoramic views and quaint villages.
2. Visiting the New Forest, Hampshire - Explore ancient woodlands, wild ponies, and picturesque towns.
3. Seal spotting at Blakeney Point, Norfolk - Observe seals in their natural habitat along the stunning coastline.
4. Hiring a canal boat along the Kennet and Avon canal (Reading to Bristol) - Enjoy a leisurely cruise through beautiful countryside.
5. Visiting Stonehenge, Wiltshire - Marvel at the iconic prehistoric monument and its mysteries.
6. Visiting Godrevy Beach near St Ives, Cornwall - Relax on sandy shores with dramatic coastal scenery.
7. Gower Peninsula, Glamorgan, Wales - Discover rugged coastlines, sandy beaches, and charming villages.
8. Watching a play at the Minack Theatre, Cornwall - Enjoy a performance in an open-air theatre with stunning sea views.
9. Visiting Chatsworth House, Derbyshire - Tour the historic estate and its magnificent gardens.
10. Visiting Yorkshire’s Sculpture Park - Wander through contemporary sculptures set in a sprawling parkland.

Methodology and Contact Information

This list was supported by consumer research conducted by OnePoll in May 2024, surveying 2,000 UK adults.

About Sykes Holiday Cottages

Sykes Holiday Cottages is a B Corp certified agency with over 30 years of experience in the holiday cottage rental industry. Owned by Forge Holiday Group, Sykes offers more than 22,500 properties across the UK and Ireland, facilitating holidays for over three million people annually. Despite its growth, Sykes remains committed to providing high-quality accommodation and exceptional service to both travellers and property owners. The company has been honoured as the 'Best Large UK Holiday Cottage Booking Company' at the British Travel Awards for a decade.

Headquartered in Chester, Sykes employs over 1,150 staff across regional offices, dedicated to delivering the best British holiday experiences.

Embark on your summer adventure and explore the beauty and diversity of the UK with these top bucket list experiences. Whether it's coastal drives, historic monuments, or serene countryside escapes, there's something for every traveller to enjoy.