English county named UK’s budget-friendly staycation for families

The school summer holidays are just around the corner and if you’re struggling for ideas with what to do with the kids then you’re not alone.

Last week Google searches for ‘things to do in six weeks holiday’ increased by 5000% in just 24 hours.

Meanwhile, research has found that parents can spend almost £1,000 more per child during the six weeks off in the UK.

So, how can you help keep costs low without budgeting on fun?

Well, the experts at Outdoor Toys have reviewed factors including the number of amusement parks, water parks, zoos and aquariums in each area.

They also looked at the average hotel cost to reveal which locations offer the best activity-filled summer staycations at an affordable price.

Researchers found Devon as the best UK staycation for summer activities, boasting an activity score of 8.96/10.

The South West county offers a great variety of attractions with 14 zoos and aquariums, including the popular Paignton Zoo and the National Marine Aquarium.

Additionally, Devon is home to 21 water and amusement parks. Costing £101 for an average weekend stay, Devon is an affordable option for visitors.

Essex ranked as second among counties for summer activities, with a score of 8.83/10.

Essex has 10 zoos and aquariums, such as Colchester Zoo and Sea Life Adventure. The county also boasts 11 water and amusement parks, including the popular destination Adventure Island.

Visitors will find Essex to be a budget-friendly choice, with an average hotel price of £91 per weekend night.

Elsewhere, West Yorkshire is the third-best county for an action-filled summer, with an activity score of 8.96/10.

The county offers 13 zoos and aquariums, the second most in the UK. In addition, West Yorkshire features seven water and amusement parks, providing plenty of options for family fun and adventure.

With an average hotel price of £90 per weekend night, it is an affordable destination to go and stay in the UK.

Here are the UK’s top 10 most affordable activity-filled staycations, according to Outdoor Toys:

1. Devon – 8.96

2. Essex – 8.83

3. West Yorkshire – 8.47

4. Kent – 8.33

5. West Midlands – 7.96

6. Staffordshire – 7.68

7. Lincolnshire – 7.44

8. Hampshire – 7.22

9. Cornwall – 6.91

10. North Yorkshire – 6.63

Despite not ranking in the top 10 overall rankings, Bristol was revealed as the county that offers the highest number of family-friendly activities, with 193 attractions per 100km₂.

The full research also reviewed the most affordable locations for a family staycation. Leicestershire came out on top with an average hotel price of just £80 per night.

Do you have any summer holiday plans with the kids? Let us know in the comments.