New data from Sykes Holiday Cottages has revealed that the Dales has officially cracked the top 10 staycation destinations for 2026.
With UK holiday demand growing by 4% year-on-year, our local limestone landscapes are now proving more popular than traditional coastal hotspots like Cornwall and Dorset.
While the Highlands and Islands took the #1 spot nationally, the Yorkshire Dales secured a prestigious 7th-place finish.
The study suggests that travellers are increasingly seeking out "traditional stone villages" and "limestone scenery," moving away from overcrowded beaches in favour of the rolling hills and quiet escapes found in the North.
Rankings were determined by Sykes Holiday Cottages through an analysis of forward-booking data for 2026, measured by average bookings per property.
Whether you are looking for a peaceful escape or a rugged adventure along the Pennine Way, the Dales offers a perfect retreat right on our doorstep - and here are 15 stunning reasons why the region is topping the charts this year.
7. Buttertubs Pass
Often called "the most beautiful drive in England," this high-altitude road connects Wensleydale and Swaledale. It’s famous for its deep limestone potholes (the "Buttertubs") and hair-raising views that were featured in the Tour de France. | Shutterstock
8. Hawes
The highest market town in England and the official home of Wensleydale Cheese. It’s a bustling hub of artisan shops, traditional pubs, and the fascinating Dales Countryside Museum, making it a perfect base camp for any staycation. | YDNPA
9. Gordale Scar
If you want raw drama, head to this hidden gorge. Created by thousands of years of glacial meltwater, the towering cliffs and hidden waterfalls make you feel like you’ve stepped into a fantasy novel. | Bruce Rollinson
10. The Forbidden Corner
Originally built as a private folly, this extraordinary garden is a labyrinth of tunnels, chambers, and bizarre statues. It is consistently voted the best family attraction in the region for those who like their beauty with a side of mystery. | National World
11. Muker & Swaledale Meadows
Swaledale is known for its wilder, more remote beauty. The village of Muker is particularly stunning in early summer when the traditional upland hay meadows are in full bloom with thousands of wildflowers. | Tony Johnson
12. Ingleton Waterfalls Trail
This world-famous 4.5-mile circular walk takes you past some of the most impressive geological features in the country, including Thornton Force, where the water drops over a 300-million-year-old limestone cliff. | DS