The town has been crowned the UK’s top summer destination for 2026 by Expedia, with a high street full of independent shops and pretty architecture
A historic market town boasting a high street brimming with independent retailers has been declared the must-visit destination of the summer.
When thoughts turn to picturesque locations across the UK ideal for a day trip or weekend break, the range of outstanding choices is vast. From York’s cobbled streets and Bristol’s bustling dockside to Edinburgh’s ever-dependable summer cultural offering, Britain is abundantly blessed with remarkable towns and cities from north to south.
Yet it is a modestly sized market town not far from Cambridge that has been crowned the hottest summer destination in a new league table compiled by Expedia.
The winning location is Bishop’s Stortford, nestled in the Hertfordshire countryside on the border with Essex. The town, which was sold to the Bishop of London in 1060, carries a rich heritage that is evident throughout its charming high street and town square.
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One particularly delightful area is Bridge Street, which features an eclectic mix of period buildings. Looking beyond the contemporary shop fronts, visitors are treated to stunning timber-framed Tudor structures, graceful Georgian townhouses, and robust Victorian architecture, reports the Mirror.
The River Stort towpath is another ideal destination for a leisurely summer afternoon walk. Classed as a globally rare chalk river, its crystal-clear waters flow over a pristine gravel bed. A relaxed stroll connects Castle Gardens through Sworders Field and Grange Paddocks meadows, and is particularly delightful in the early morning hours.
Waytemore Castle ranks amongst the most impressive landmarks in the town. The Norman motte-and-bailey structure, situated right in the town centre, provides a captivating insight into the region’s medieval heritage. Once you’ve taken in the history, the adjacent Castle Gardens offer a charming setting for a picnic, according to ChooseWhere.
Redricks Open Water Swimming Lake in Sawbridgeworth lies just a few miles outside the town and is an ideal destination on a sweltering summer’s day. Tucked down a country lane on the town’s outskirts, the lake features a 750-metre circuit shared with ducks, swans and fish. Open throughout the year in both summer and winter, it provides induction programmes for beginners, coaching sessions, and monthly Full Moon Swim events.
Getting to the town is straightforward. Liverpool Street station in London is approximately 40 minutes away, while it takes just 28 minutes from Cambridge by train. Stansted Airport is a mere ten minutes by train or car.
Expedia Group has named Bishop’s Stortford as the standout destination of summer 2026, as part of its Unpack ’26 Summer: The Trends in Travel report. The research revealed that 45 percent of Britons are showing greater interest in UK holidays compared to last summer, a trend likely shaped by plans to remain in the country for the World Cup and growing concerns over escalating airfare costs linked to the Iran War.
“This summer, travel isn’t slowing down – it’s being reshaped,” said Melanie Fish, spokesperson at Expedia Group. “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.”
Searches for coastal towns such as Scarborough and Tenby have surged by 40 percent this summer, while interest in rural retreats and locations offering straightforward access to national parks has also seen a notable rise.
Destinations of the summer 2026
- Bishop’s Stortford, Hertfordshire: 90 percent search increase
- Sudbury, Suffolk: 60 percent
- Reading, Berkshire: 60 percent
- Nottinghamshire: 40 percent
- Scarborough, North Yorkshire: 40 percent
- Harrogate, North Yorkshire: 40 percent
- Tenby, Pembrokeshire: 35 percent
- Glasgow: 30 percent
- Paisley, Renfrewshire: 30 percent
- Canterbury, Kent: 30 percent

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