Last Updated on: 11th November 2025, 10:07 pm
Sometimes the best family breaks don’t require a passport — or even much petrol. Over the past few years, I’ve become a huge fan of the humble staycation. It saves money, avoids airport chaos, and still gives you that much-needed change of scene. You’d be surprised how many brilliant (and affordable) spots are within a two-hour drive or train ride from most parts of the UK.
Here’s how to plan your next mini-getaway without breaking the bank — plus a few ideas for easy destinations that tick the “fun, affordable, and family-friendly” boxes.
1. Keep It Close, Keep It Simple
A two-hour travel radius is the sweet spot: far enough to feel like you’ve “gone away,” but close enough to skip the overnight journey snacks and “are we nearly there yet?” chorus.
Before you even choose where to go, think about what you actually want from the weekend. Is it nature and quiet walks? A bit of seaside fun? Or a town with plenty of rainy-day options?
Once you’ve decided your vibe, open Google Maps, draw a rough two-hour circle from your home, and start exploring what’s inside it. You’ll be amazed how many hidden gems are right under your nose.
2. Affordable Accommodation Options
The trick to a cheap but lovely staycation is flexibility. Here are my go-to options:
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Self-catering cottages or apartments: Look on Airbnb or Booking.com and filter by price. I often find small annexes or converted barns for under £100 per night.
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Camping pods or glamping sites: You get the outdoorsy experience without needing all the gear. Many sites include little kitchens and proper beds.
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Budget hotels: Premier Inn and Travelodge are lifesavers for family trips — especially when you can snag one of their £35 deals.
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House swaps: If you’re feeling adventurous, arrange a swap with a friend or relative who lives somewhere different. Free accommodation and a built-in pet-sitter if they’ve got animals!
3. Cheap and Cheerful Destinations
Here are a few staycation favourites that work almost anywhere in the UK:
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Seaside Towns: Whitby, Tenby, Brighton, or Scarborough all offer that classic fish-and-chips-by-the-sea experience. Walk the promenade, paddle in the shallows, and let the kids loose with a bucket and spade.
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National Parks: The Peak District, Lake District, and Brecon Beacons are all brilliant for family walks and picnics. Pack waterproofs and snacks, and you’ve got a full day out for the price of parking.
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Historic Cities: York, Bath, and Edinburgh are perfect for short breaks. Many museums are free, and simply wandering the old streets feels special.
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Rural Escapes: Even a night in the countryside works wonders. Find a farm stay or shepherd’s hut — kids love seeing the animals up close.
4. Eat Smart and Save
Food is often the biggest hidden cost, but it’s easy to manage. Pack a cool bag with sandwiches and snacks for the journey. If you’re staying somewhere self-catered, plan a few simple meals to cook yourself (even a pasta dinner saves £50 compared to eating out).
We usually treat ourselves to one meal out — fish and chips on the beach or a cosy pub lunch — and make the rest simple and relaxed. Bonus: fewer restaurant meltdowns!
5. Make the Most of Free Fun
Research local attractions before you go. Many areas have free nature trails, museums, or community events. A quick Google search of “free things to do in [your destination]” usually brings up loads of ideas.
One of my favourite hacks is visiting the local tourist information centre — they often have discount leaflets for nearby attractions, or tell you about hidden gems you’d otherwise miss.
Final Thoughts
A staycation doesn’t have to feel like a compromise. In fact, some of our happiest family memories have come from weekends spent exploring somewhere close to home. Less travel time, more together time — and your wallet will thank you too.
So next time you’re craving a getaway, don’t scroll flight prices — check your map instead. You might just find your new favourite place right around the corner.
