The index was calculated using the average sunshine hours and maximum temperature figures for 1,000 holiday destinations. The locations were then indexed by the total number of local attractions, average costs for a hotel, a pint, a litre of petrol, two hours of car parking and the total number of local EV charge points.

The index also named Bognor Regis and Folkestone as the sunniest locations overall, achieving an average of 194 sunshine hours each month and an average maximum temperature of 16 degrees. Whereas, Port Glasgow was named the location Brits are most likely to be rained on during a break with an average of 121 days of rainfall each year.

So, how much will a UK staycation cost? 

A key consideration when visiting any holiday destination is how much it’s going to cost you once you’re there. In order to build this into their calculations, the automotive retailer has also factored in the average costs of the following amenities which a visitor is likely to need during their stay.

• Number of attractions
• Average hotel price
• Average cost of a pint
• Average cost of parking (2 hours)
• Cost of petrol (1 litre)
• Total number of EV charge points

Ipswich came top of the list for the location with the most affordable accommodation, with an average family hotel stay for one week costing £702. The most expensive on the list is St Ives, setting you back £2,544 for a comparable break.

When choosing where to go on holiday many families will also need a variety of attractions to keep them occupied when exploring the local area. The research highlights that Bristol and Plymouth each rank among the best locations for things to do, offering 612 and 543 attractions respectively.

Alternatively, if holidaymakers are looking for a quieter and more relaxed break, Caister-on-Sea has just nine local attractions making it a favourite among families and couples looking for quieter time away.

Driving whilst on a holiday in the UK 

Another factor which has been included in the research is the cost of parking whilst on a staycation. Bristol comes in as the most expensive location, costing an average of £8.70 to park your car for two hours, whereas smaller towns such as Herne Bay and Ilfracombe will set you back just £1.90 and £0.80 respectively.

With the popularity of electric vehicles continuing to grow, Evans Halshaw has also considered the number of charging points available in these locations. Bristol (20 charge points), Southampton (16 charge points) and Bournemouth (10 charge points) hold the top three positions for the best locations with plenty of vehicle charging points. This is likely due to their larger populations and gives drivers the added confidence knowing they’re never far from a charging location.

Kim Costello, chief marketing officer for Pendragon, which owns Evans Halshaw, comments: “With continued restrictions on international travel many people will be considering a staycation this year rather than travelling abroad. Our data helps to highlight some of the UK’s favourite holiday locations, as well as unveiling a number of hidden gems which offer a great alternative to the traditional British break.”

“Before heading on a road trip this summer we’d encourage drivers to complete a few simple checks on their vehicle including tyre pressures, fluid levels, battery charge and brakes. For added peace of mind, drivers can book into their nearest Evans Halshaw retailer for a complimentary vehicle health check to ensure their vehicle is in good working order before travelling.”

To explore the top 30 locations, you can view Evans Halshaw’s full report here.