Five reasons to holiday in Britain in 2013

[Stephen Smith]

It's getting towards the time of year where many Brits decide to take a last-minute summer break.

There may be all sorts of great deals on flights abroad which tourists can grab at the last minute, but there are plenty of reasons to opt for a 'stay-cation' in the UK instead.

It's been predicted that as many as eight million Brits will choose to holiday in their home country this summer. Here are five reasons why this might be a great idea for you this year as well.  

Holiday home profits

UK holiday homes are a great way to bring in a passive income. It's been estimated that more than 250,000 British residents own holiday homes. Of course, the added benefit to this is that they have somewhere to enjoy a short break for no added expense.

A home away from home provides a relaxing location which you are comfortable and familiar with, but is still free from all the stresses of everyday life.  

Beautiful countrysides

Britain has some of the world's most beautiful countrysides, especially in the summer months. For those who enjoy walking or hiking holidays, there's absolutely no need to travel abroad for a great trip.

The Cotswolds, a 25 mile range of hills in the South West, is a very popular location for walking holidays. The Lake District, The Shropshire Marshes and The South West Coast Path are also must-sees.    

Top beaches

Although beach weather is often few and far between in the UK, it is still home to some of Europe's most beautiful beaches. Bournemouth Beach was voted the fourth best beach in the continent in a 2012 poll by TripAdvisor, placing higher than the beaches in Benidorm, Albufeira and the Gran Canaria. Woolacombe, St Ives, Newquay, Weymouth and Padstow beaches were all voted amongst Britain's top 10 in the same poll.

Regional charm

Although large parts of Britain are similar, there are certain communities which still hold a strong regional identity. For example, residents in the South West have a well-earned reputation for being relaxed, friendly and makers of incredible pasties. Those in the North East are believed to wild and more brash. Either way, it's possible to feel like you're away from the day-to-day life of your own region, whilst staying in the UK.

Value for money

There's no escaping the fact that we are still very much in the midst of an economic crisis. Flying abroad remains relatively expensive, especially when you consider all the costly add-ons like travel insurance, currency exchange, airport transfers, car hire etc.  

It's possible to have huge amounts of fun with friends and family on a budget in the UK. There are plenty of budget holiday parks which have decades of expertise at providing a rip-roaring family holiday. There are hundreds of attractions to be enjoyed and sights to be seen. Brits tend to underestimate how great our fair country is.  

Why not have a browse of some of the brilliant budget family holidays that are on offer today? You could be booking a superb short break for you and your family within a matter of minutes!

About the author: Stephen Smith is a professional holiday planner and trip organiser. A wandering thirst often compels him to bid goodbye to his family in Dorset and head to new destinations. Stephen contributes to a wide range of journals and online publications. It is his attitude towards life and love of travel that keeps him energetic and ready for his next adventure. If you want to know Stephen more as a friend, meet him on Google+.