Scenic town 45 minutes from Middlesbrough named UK's top trending destination
Boroughbridge's serene riverside walks are just one reason why it's such a popular destination(Image: Sykes Holiday Cottages)With picturesque countryside, a wealth of history and delightful towns and villages right on our doorstep, it comes as little surprise that growing numbers of Brits are choosing a staycation in 2026. And one destination not far from Teesside has surged in popularity this year.Travel specialists at Sykes Holiday Cottages have named the town of Boroughbridge in North Yorkshire as the top trending destination of 2026, based on year-on-year booking growth. Sitting two-and-a-half hours by train from Middlesbrough, or just 45 minutes by car, this historic market town sits precisely halfway between London and Edinburgh on the A1.Boasting a bustling high street lined with independent shops, vibrant cafes, pubs and restaurants, the town is also a treasure trove for history enthusiasts, from prehistoric standing stones on its outskirts to an open-air museum dedicated to agricultural heritage. Visit North Yorkshire also highlights the wealth of scenic walking routes on offer, whether along the banks of the River Ure or through the grounds of nearby stately homes.Several National Trust properties lie within easy reach, ranging from the art collections and gardens at Beninbrough to the ancient ruins and deer park at Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal Water Garden. The English Heritage Aldborough Roman Site sits just outside Boroughbridge, while further afield, the city of York is a mere 40-minute drive away, and Ripon is just 15 minutes down the road.For those tempted to enjoy a staycation in Boroughbridge this summer, accommodation in the town centre with availability between June and August on Sykes Holiday Cottages at the time of writing includes The Hideaway at No 8, sleeping two guests, The Gables, accommodating four, and The Penthouse, which sleeps six - all currently available at discounted rates as part of the agency's summer sale, reports Chronicle Live.Meanwhile, although holidaycottages.co.uk doesn't feature properties within Boroughbridge itself, numerous holiday rentals are located just a stone's throw from the town for a more peaceful rural escape - with the overwhelming majority still showing availability throughout the summer months. Highly-rated choices for couples or smaller families include The Coach House, sleeping two, or Fig Tree Cottage and The Fisherman's Nook, both accommodating four guests, while larger groups can consider Rose Villa, sleeping six, and Orchard Cottage, which sleeps seven.The travel specialists at Sykes Holiday Cottages said: "Nestled between the Yorkshire Dales and the North York Moors, Boroughbridge has steadily become one of North Yorkshire's most popular market towns. With bookings up 125% year-on-year it's shot up to the top of our list of the the best UK towns to visit."Sitting just off the A1 and only a short drive from Harrogate and York, it's a fantastic base for exploring both the countryside and the wider county, which also makes it one of the best places to go for dog-friendly UK holidays."They continued: "A great choice for couples, walkers and anyone looking to experience traditional Yorkshire charm, Boroughbridge is best known for its historic high street, independent cafés, cosy pubs and easy access to the surrounding countryside. The town also lies close to the River Ure, where visitors can enjoy scenic riverside walks and peaceful afternoons away from the crowds often found in larger tourist hotspots."The experts also suggested: "For those hoping to explore further afield, Boroughbridge is perfectly placed for day trips across North Yorkshire. The spa town of Harrogate can be found less than a 30-minute drive away, whilst the Yorkshire Dales National Park can easily be reached for picturesque villages, traditional country pubs and some of the best walks in the UK."Boroughbridge was not the only destination to receive recognition in the 2026 Sykes Staycation Index. In the North East, the coastal village of Bamburgh featured among the most sought-after places to visit, while elsewhere in Northumberland, the thriving market town of Morpeth was identified as one of the most affordable UK staycation destinations.Here is the list from Sykes Holiday Cottages of the top trending destinations in 2026, along with the year-on-year booking growth for the top three:Boroughbridge, North Yorkshire (+125% YoY)Cromer, Norfolk (+46% YoY)Teignmouth, Devon (+36% YoY)Praa Sands, CornwallAberystwyth, CeredigionBorth-y-Gest, GwyneddOban, Argyll and ButeHayle, CornwallSt Agnes, CornwallBeddgelert, Gwynedd
