The unsuspecting South East town of Bishop's Stortford has been named the top destination for a UK summer holiday, according to new research by Expedia. While iconic spots like Buckingham Palace, Stonehenge, Lake Windermere, and the Roman Baths often come to mind, this sleepy suburb in Hertfordshire has taken the crown.
Rising Popularity of Staycations
Domestic holidays are becoming increasingly popular, with an overall search increase of 77% over the last year. Expedia's study analyzed social media mentions by UK residents heading to domestic locations between February 1 and April 29, 2025, and the same dates in 2026. Bishop's Stortford saw interest surge by 90%, while accommodation searches also skyrocketed.
Melanie Fish, travel expert and spokesperson at Expedia Group, said: 'As major global events and rising costs influence decisions, travellers are either staying closer to home or seeking out destinations where they can get more for their money.'
Local Reactions
Some locals are raising eyebrows at the ranking. Metro's Paul Dietrich, who grew up nearby, said: 'I'm pleased the place is getting some recognition. Not sure I'd recommend it, mind you, but then market towns that border the far edges of East Anglia aren't really my thing.'
Hannah Pearman-Eddon, a local hypnobirthing business owner, told Metro: 'The town is lovely, it's really historic, but there are also enough modern shops, lots of places to eat and bars. It's a great place to live. But I wouldn't necessarily see it as a tourist location.'
Amy Lovelock Fleming, who holidayed in an Airbnb in Bishop's Stortford before moving there, said: 'I can't deny, it's still been one of my most favourite family holidays. The kids loved the freedom of the farm and vineyards, wood burning hot tub, homemade playground in the woods, fishing and Rosey Lea Tea Room – just a little hidden gem!'
Things to Do in Bishop's Stortford
One of the biggest draws is its proximity to lush countryside. Hatfield Forest is nearby, and a two-hour walk along the Flitch Way Circular leads to Bedlars Green. The River Stort offers a trail connecting to Harlow in Essex, taking four to five hours. Castle Park features a Norman castle and the river, and is part of the Green Flag scheme. Southern Country Park spans 23 hectares with a duck pond, picnic area, and kite-flying spot.
For food, South Street Pantry offers a vintage tea room vibe with a full English breakfast for £14 and pancakes for £10.75. Eat17, affiliated with its Walthamstow and Hackney sisters, is a self-described 'food utopia' with brunch, sourdough, and craft beer. An indoor street food market serves sushi, pizza, tacos, and Thai.
Getting There
Bishop's Stortford is well-connected: the train to Liverpool Street takes 41 minutes (five stops), driving to the city takes about one hour 20 minutes, and Stansted Airport is a 13-minute drive away or one stop on the Stansted Express.
Expedia's Top Destinations for a 'Stay-Here Summer'
- Bishop's Stortford, Hertfordshire (search increase: 90%)
- Sudbury, Suffolk (60%)
- Reading, Berkshire (60%)
- Nottinghamshire (40%)
- Scarborough, North Yorkshire (40%)
- Harrogate, North Yorkshire (40%)
- Tenby, Pembrokeshire (35%)
- Glasgow (30%)
- Paisley, Renfrewshire (30%)
- Canterbury, Kent (30%)
Whether you're a local or a visitor, Bishop's Stortford offers a mix of history, nature, and modern amenities that make it a surprising yet worthy holiday spot.
