Saltburn named one of UK’s most affordable holiday spots

The North Yorkshire coastal town secured second place on Sykes Holiday Cottages’ Staycation Index for 2026.

Other nearby destinations also made the list, with Staithes and Thirsk coming in at fifth and sixth place respectively.

Saltburn is praised for its Victorian pier, cliff tramway, and expansive sandy beach, while also offering easy access to the dramatic scenery of the North York Moors National Park.

Accommodation options like Nancy’s Blushes, a stylish apartment for three, provide great value for visitors looking for a comfortable and affordable coastal base.

Staithes offers an alternative seaside escape, described in the report as “one of North Yorkshire’s best-kept secrets.”

Staithes, North Yorkshire (Image: SUPPLIED)

The fishing village is known for its colourful cottages and historic harbour.

Sykes highlights Hillsover, a restored cottage set over three floors with bi-fold doors leading to a private roof terrace.

Guests can enjoy panoramic sea views and unwind after a day exploring the coast.

Inland, Thirsk rounds out the North Yorkshire trio.

The traditional market town sits between the North York Moors and Yorkshire Dales national parks.

According to Sykes, holidaymakers can experience “The traditional market town is home to independent shops, cafés and the popular World of James Herriot.”

Kemps Yard Retreat, a cottage for four, is hidden behind the gardens of a historic Friends Meeting House and accessed via a 17th-century cobbled street. It offers a peaceful stay just moments from the centre of town.

The top 10 most affordable UK staycation destinations for 2026 are Louth, Saltburn-by-the-Sea, Haworth, Hornsea, Staithes, Thirsk, Hereford, Liskeard, Okehampton, and Morpeth.

The index found that 23 per cent of Brits are choosing cheaper destinations for their holidays.

This rises to 30 per cent among Gen Z and 33 per cent among millennials.

To find out more, visit www.sykescottages.co.uk/blog/cheapest-holiday-destinations-uk/ or call 01244 617 683.

The full list of top 10 destinations is available on the Sykes Holiday Cottages website.