Uk city named 'worst staycation spot' in uk but locals disagree

NEWPORT HAS BEEN NAMED AS THE WORST PLACE TO VISIT FOR A STAYCATION ACCORDING TO NEW RESEARCH, WITH TWO OTHER WELSH DESTINATIONS ALSO SCORING POORLY 15:53, 15 Jan 2025 Welsh cities have been

dealt a blow in recent research, with one named as the worst staycation spot in the UK and two others following closely behind. The study by insurance comparison site Go Compare ranked

Newport as the least appealing city for a staycation in the UK. The survey evaluated 55 locations across the country, focusing on three main factors: family-friendly accommodation,

attractions, and affordability during school holidays. Newport was found to be the lowest-ranking location, boasting only 72 family-friendly hotels and 20 child-oriented attractions. Cardiff

and Swansea were then identified as the second and third least attractive cities in the UK for a staycation. This is partly attributed to families facing an average price increase of 47%

for accommodation if they stay in Wales during school holidays compared to term time, the highest price surge in the UK. READ MORE: BLACKPOOL PLEASURE BEACH TO OPEN EARLY FOR THE FIRST TIME

IN 10 YEARS Despite Go Compare's low ranking, Newport does have plenty to offer families. From the impressive Newport Market, brimming with fantastic food vendors, to the Riverside

Theatre suitable for all ages, and the Newport County football ground for sports enthusiasts, reports Wales Online. Article continues below Jessica Morden, MP for Newport East, which

includes the city of Newport, has championed her constituency as a prime staycation spot. She said: "Newport is a fantastic place for a staycation! In my constituency of Newport East,

you'll find the wonderful Wetlands, an excellent spot for families and one of the best locations for nature-spotting in Wales, the 5-star Celtic Manor and the International Convention

Centre, our 15th-century ship, the finest example of its kind in the world, and our unique and amazing Transporter Bridge, with a new visitor centre set to open in the next few weeks."

She continued: "You'll also enjoy the vibrant grassroots music scene, our beautiful parks, city centre dining experiences like Newport Market, theatres, the National Velodrome of

Wales, the historic Newport Cathedral, charming arcades, and a new leisure centre with a fun pool currently under construction. I could go on-there's just so much to see and do."

However, Go Compare's assessment of Newport was less glowing. The price-comparison site said: "Newport's low score stems from a limited selection of family-friendly

accommodations and activities, as well as soaring price hikes during the holidays. With only 72 family-suited hotels, families might struggle to find the right accommodation, especially

during peak travel seasons when prices see a steep increase of 47%. "The Welsh city also offers just 20 family-friendly attractions, meaning limited options for keeping the kids

entertained. For families looking for a more activity-packed staycation, Newport might lack the variety needed to suit all ages." This is what Go Compare had to say about Cardiff and

Swansea: " Cardiff is known for its lively cultural scene but ranks low on our index due to a shortage of family-oriented hotels and activities. The Welsh capital has 70 family-friendly

hotels and 85 attractions suitable for children, which could limit options for families staying in the area. The high price hikes in Wales (47%) during peak travel times also make it one of

the more expensive options, despite its limited amenities for young families. Article continues below "Swansea's beautiful beaches are ideal for nature-loving families, but the

city has fewer attractions with children in mind. With 97 family-suitable hotels and 59 attractions geared towards all ages, Swansea offers less variety than higher-ranked

destinations."