UK Holiday Boom as Eastbourne Emerges as a Budget Travel Powerhouse for Summer Coastal Escapes

Written By: Ankita Sarmah

Ankita Sarmah

A passionate storyteller and aspiring journalist, Ankita Sarmah is currently pursuing a Master’s in English at DU while exploring the evolving landscape of journalism. With two years of practical experience, she has developed a strong ability to transform ideas, observations, and experiences into engaging narratives that connect with readers. Her journey combines academic knowledge with real-world reporting, allowing her to explore diverse fields such as culture, travel, and lifestyle through a creative and insightful perspective. Driven by curiosity and a passion for meaningful storytelling, Ankita strives to create fresh, authentic, and impactful content that informs, inspires, and leaves a lasting impression. For her, every story is more than words — it is an experience crafted to engage, connect, and resonate with audiences.

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August 10, 2026 11:00 GMT+5:30

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UK’s holidaymakers are embracing Eastbourne as a budget-friendly coastal town offering inexpensive vacations and seaside attractions. The UK’s domestic holiday market is seeing a shift towards more economical getaways, with Eastbourne being one of the destinations that are perfect for a budget-friendly seaside getaway this summer. According to new research that analysed accommodation prices in the UK, Eastbourne is among the cheapest destinations in the UK for those looking to head out on a holiday during the busiest time of the year for the country’s hospitality industry, the peak season of August and September.

As international holidays become increasingly expensive due to rising accommodation, transport and daily travel costs, more British travellers are choosing destinations closer to home. The latest findings reveal that UK staycations are gaining momentum, with a large majority of holidaymakers planning domestic trips this summer.

Eastbourne Ranks Among UK’s Most Affordable Coastal Destinations

Eastbourne has become a major attraction for budget-conscious travellers after being ranked the second most affordable summer getaway destination in the UK. The study examined average hotel prices across different destinations and found that visitors can expect to pay around £115 per night for accommodation in Eastbourne during August and September.

The result places Eastbourne ahead of many popular UK holiday locations, offering travellers the opportunity to enjoy a seaside escape without facing some of the higher costs associated with traditional summer destinations.

The only destination to record lower average hotel prices was the Brecon Beacons, where overnight stays averaged approximately £112 per night. While the Welsh destination attracts visitors with mountains, outdoor adventures and scenic landscapes, Eastbourne provides a classic coastal holiday experience with beaches, seaside attractions and historic landmarks.

Eastbourne’s combination of affordability and attractions has helped strengthen its position as a competitive summer travel destination. The town offers visitors access to its famous pier, coastal walks and a Blue Flag beach, making it appealing for families, couples and travellers looking for a relaxing seaside break.

UK Staycation Trend Gains Momentum Among Travellers

The growing popularity of Eastbourne reflects a wider transformation in UK holiday habits. The research found that around 80 per cent of British travellers are choosing to holiday within the country this summer.

The increase in domestic travel comes as many travellers continue to look for better value holidays. Instead of spending more on international flights and overseas accommodation, visitors are exploring destinations that provide memorable experiences while keeping costs under control.

Coastal towns across the UK are benefiting from this changing travel behaviour. Locations offering beaches, cultural attractions and affordable accommodation are becoming increasingly attractive to holidaymakers who want convenience and value.

Eastbourne has gained an advantage by combining the traditional appeal of a British seaside resort with competitive hotel prices. The destination provides travellers with an affordable alternative while still offering many experiences associated with a summer holiday.

Budget Destinations Across Britain Offer Affordable Escapes

The study also highlighted several other UK destinations that are attracting travellers searching for lower-cost summer breaks.

Torquay in Devon ranked as the third most affordable destination, with average hotel prices of around £129 per night. Known for its beaches, harbour and coastal scenery, the destination continues to attract visitors looking for a traditional seaside holiday.

Other affordable destinations included Snowdonia, where average hotel stays were around £130 per night, followed by Cardiff at £131 and Blackpool at £140.

These locations demonstrate the variety of budget-friendly experiences available across Britain. Travellers can choose between coastal holidays, city breaks and nature-based escapes without leaving the country.

From seaside resorts to mountain landscapes, the growing demand for affordable travel is encouraging visitors to discover destinations beyond the UK’s most expensive tourism hotspots.

London Remains the UK’s Top Staycation Destination Despite Higher Costs

While affordability has become a major factor influencing travel decisions, London continues to hold its position as the UK’s leading staycation destination.

The capital was named the best overall destination in the study despite having significantly higher hotel prices, averaging around £181 per night.

London’s popularity is driven by its global reputation, wide range of attractions and strong online visibility. The city records nearly 1.5 million annual Google searches and has generated around 173 million Instagram posts, reflecting its continued appeal among domestic and international visitors.

The city also provides travellers with many free attractions, helping visitors manage costs despite higher accommodation prices. Popular free experiences include visits to the National Gallery, Tate Modern and Sky Garden.

This shows that value does not always depend only on accommodation prices. Destinations offering free attractions, cultural experiences and diverse activities can remain attractive even when hotel costs are higher.

Hidden UK Travel Gems Gain Attention Among Holidaymakers

Alongside major destinations, the research identified several quieter locations that are gaining interest among travellers seeking peaceful experiences.

Whitstable, Weston-super-Mare and Poole were highlighted as hidden gems due to lower search volumes and a more relaxed atmosphere compared with heavily visited tourist centres.

These destinations represent another growing trend in UK travel, where visitors are increasingly searching for less crowded locations that provide authentic experiences.

The demand for quieter escapes has created new opportunities for smaller coastal communities. Travellers are looking beyond famous holiday destinations and discovering places that offer natural beauty, local culture and a slower pace.

Affordable Travel Planning Becomes Essential for UK Holidaymakers

As more people choose domestic holidays, careful financial planning is becoming an important part of travel preparation. Saving gradually before a trip and maintaining emergency funds can help travellers manage unexpected costs during their holidays.

The rise of budget travel does not mean travellers are reducing their expectations. Instead, many are looking for destinations that provide strong experiences at reasonable prices.

Eastbourne’s rise highlights how UK coastal towns can benefit from changing consumer priorities. With affordable hotels, seaside attractions and easy accessibility, the destination is positioned to attract more visitors during the summer travel season.

UK travellers are embracing budget-friendly breaks with Eastbourne being one of the best places to take a cheap holiday in the UK as it is home to affordable hotels, spectacular beaches and offers more than a summer’s day out.

The travel trends show that there are signs that this year’s British holiday market may see value, convenience and experiences as big factors in destination choice. It is no surprise that Eastbourne is one of the UK’s top destinations for budget conscious British holiday makers.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Why is Eastbourne becoming popular for UK summer holidays?
Eastbourne is gaining popularity because it offers affordable hotel stays, a Blue Flag beach, a historic pier and a relaxing coastal experience for budget-conscious travellers.

2. Is Eastbourne one of the cheapest UK holiday destinations?
Yes. A recent study found Eastbourne among the most affordable UK summer getaway destinations, with average hotel prices of around £115 per night during August and September.

3. Which UK destination is cheaper than Eastbourne for a summer break?
The Brecon Beacons was ranked slightly cheaper than Eastbourne, with average hotel stays costing around £112 per night.

4. Why are more British travellers choosing UK staycations?
Many travellers are choosing UK holidays because they offer easier planning, lower travel costs and affordable alternatives to expensive overseas trips.

5. What attractions can visitors enjoy in Eastbourne?
Visitors can explore Eastbourne Pier, enjoy its Blue Flag beach, experience coastal walks and discover the town’s seaside heritage.

6. Which other UK destinations offer affordable summer holidays?
Other budget-friendly destinations include Torquay, Snowdonia, Cardiff and Blackpool, which offer coastal, cultural and outdoor experiences at competitive prices.

7. Is London still a popular UK staycation destination?
Yes. London remains one of the UK’s top staycation destinations due to its attractions, cultural experiences, online popularity and many free activities despite higher hotel costs.

8. Which UK destinations are considered hidden gems for quieter holidays?
Whitstable, Weston-super-Mare and Poole were identified as quieter destinations offering a more peaceful holiday atmosphere with fewer crowds.

9. How can travellers save money when planning a UK holiday?
Travellers can save by planning early, setting aside regular funds before their trip, comparing accommodation prices and keeping an emergency budget for unexpected expenses.