National park with 'cosmic skies' named among UK's most underrated staycation spots

A national park has been named among the UK’s most underrated staycation spots. Cottages.com created the UK Staycation Index: a guide to the best-kept-secret corners of the country, perfect for last-minute getaways.

The staycation index factored in points, including search volumes, Instagram-worthy scenery, availability of rentals for last-minute bookings, hiking and biking trails, yoga studios and spas, and pubs per 100 square miles. In second place was Exmoor, a national park in south-west England between Devon and Somerset. The site called Exmoor "one of the UK’s true wildernesses", dubbing it "a land of mythic coastlines, ancient moors, and cosmic skies". Exmoor was the first place in Europe to be designated a Dark Sky Reserve. There is minimal light pollution, and on a cloudless night, you can see thousands of stars and astronomical sights such as the Milky Way with the naked eye.

Over 1,000km of footpaths and bridleways cross the national park, offering short strolls to multi-day hikes. Visitors can see the rugged coast, ancient woodland, desolate moors, and more.

The area also has historic sites and gardens, family attractions and steam railway rides, wildlife parks, and acres of unspoilt countryside

Those looking for an adventure could even search for the Beast of Exmoor, a cryptozoological cat roaming the lands. Reported to be a large, panther-like cat, the beast has been sought for decades.

Also included on Cottages.com’s list were the Mendip Hills in Somerset, Nidderdale in North Yorkshire, the Howardian Hills in North Yorkshire, and the North Pennines in County Durham, Northumberland, and Cumbria.

Richard Banks, marketing director at Cottages.com, said: "Exploring the countryside offers a powerful way to reconnect with the natural beauty and cultural heritage that surrounds us.

"It supports local communities, encourages more sustainable travel, and nurtures a stronger sense of place and personal wellbeing.

"From gentle hills to secluded valleys, the UK’s rural landscapes provide enriching experiences that rival even the most exotic getaways. Often, the most meaningful journeys are those that lead us back to the wonders of home."