How To Plan The Perfect 'Staycation'

A combination of financial worries, a weak pound, and a longer-term trend towards taking domestic breaks will see many of us shunning foreign destinations, and relaxing closer to home this summer.

While the weather might not be quite as predictable as it may be overseas, there is plenty on offer right here on your doorstep.

There's no need to let the recession ruin your holiday - simply follow our guide to planning the perfect "staycation".

If jetting off for some summer sun isn't on your agenda this year, then you're going to be in very good company, as more and more holidaymakers are thinking twice about spending their hard-earned wages on a trip abroad.
In fact, 20 per cent of Britons who went on holiday abroad last year are planning to save money in 2009 by holidaying here in the UK instead*.

And the good news is there are some significant savings to be made. So what are you waiting for?
Read on for our guide to holidaying at home.

Cornwall

Cornwall is the top destination for Brits this summer**, and with its charming towns and superb scenery, it's not hard to see why.

If you're looking for a beach break, Watergate Bay is a big favourite with surfers, and the long stretch of golden sand runs along the coast until it reaches Newquay two miles away.

Stay at Watergate Bay Hotel, dine at Jamie Oliver's fantastic Fifteen restaurant on the beach, learn to surf at the Extreme Academy - or simply snooze on your sun-bed.

Devon

Of those taking a domestic break this summer, 40 per cent will be taking a seaside holiday**, and where better to soak up the sunshine than at one of Devon's many beach destinations.

For tradition and tearooms - and a hearty helping of fish and chips - head south to the bustling harbour town of Torquay. Or for spectacular scenery, head north to the two-mile beach at Woolacombe Sands.

Bournemouth

Boasting some of the warmest temperatures in Britain, you'll want to take the plunge at Bournemouth beach.
The seven miles of beach fly EU blue flags, and miniature trains run along the shore - linking family favourites such as Alum Chine Beach to Bournemouth Pier. Head down and hire out your beach hut along the sands between Alum Chine and Southbourne. Visit www.bournemouth.co.uk for more info.

The Lake District

Home to the romantic poets and hill-walkers, the Lake District offers the perfect rural escape for those looking for a gentle stroll around Kendall, or a yomp up Scafell Pike.

Ramblers Countrywide Holidays is currently offering a five-night holiday in Bowness on Windemere, taking in the fell country around England's largest lake, the woodlands of Claife Heights, and the villages of Coniston and Hawkshead.

Yorkshire Dales

Why not keep costs down by cooking for yourselves on a self-catering holiday in the Yorkshire Dales?
That way, you'll have more money to spend on horse riding, mountain biking and canoeing; or day trips to Lightwater Valley theme park, or the labyrinth of tunnels, chambers and follies that is the Forbidden Corner.

Isle of Wight

The Isle of Wight is a walker's heaven and is reputed to have more footpaths per square mile than any other English county.

Ramblers can hike from Bembridge to Alum Bay, taking in the high chalk downs, quiet estuaries and dramatic cliffs; while nature-lovers will also enjoy the abundance of flora and fauna that can be found across the island.

Pembrokeshire, Wales

Pembrokeshire is renowned for its spectacular cliffs, gorgeous sand dunes, clear streams and rivers - and for having more blue flag and Seaside Award beaches than any other county in Britain. Activities include exploring medieval walled towns, fortresses and castles, walking and hiking, as well as surfing, and whale and dolphin-watching boat trips.

Scottish Islands

Remote, wild and beautiful, Scotland's islands offer a wonderful way to escape the hassle of mainland life.
Sample the unique character, stunning wildlife and superb landscapes of Iona, Shetland and Colonsay and learn more about island life and the communities who live there. For more information go to www.visitscotland.com.

Themed breaks

For a holiday with a difference, why not opt for a "themed break" this year, such as a food-themed escape in Edinburgh, or a or spa-themed break in Bath. Alternatively, why not go on a wildlife or bird-watching trip, or try your hand at trimming the sails on a boating holiday?

Family and friends

For a truly low-cost trip, take the chance to enjoy some free accommodation by staying with those friends and family members you've been meaning to visit for years.

A fifth of holidaymakers plan to stay with friends and relatives this summer in a bid to save money***; and not only does this make financial sense, but it also gives you the chance to spend time together in a new part of the UK.

* VisitEngland study - 27 March 2009.
**Travelodge holiday report - Travelodge surveyed 3,300 Britons to investigate their holiday plans for summer 2009.
*** Legal & General - Changing Face of British Homes.

If planning a trip within the UK, make sure you still take out travel insurance. Read more about 'Staycations' at http://www.confused.com