Cornwall has been knocked into second place in the list of most desirable UK tourist destinations for 2023.

It was beaten by Yorkshire, which also pushed the Scottish Highlands in to the third spot.

A poll of 2,000 adults revealed the favourite destinations on people’s holiday lists after 50 per cent said they plan a staycation this year rather than jetting abroad due to the cost of living.

Yorkshire was named the most popular place this year thanks to its picturesque coastal towns and rolling dales.

Cornwall, the Scottish Highlands, Cumbria and Northumberland followed close behind as sought-after destinations to visit in the UK.

It also seems the lesser-known locations are priorities for 47 per cent who plan to visit places outside of tourist hotspots - including Norfolk, Ayrshire, and Kent.

Reasons for this include lower price points (53 per cent), wanting to be more flexible when booking meals (29 per cent) and avoiding over-crowded areas (65 per cent).

When it comes to the style of staycation, a countryside B&B appeals to 30 per cent while 28 per cent are looking to visit lakes and mountains.

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The research, commissioned by Sykes Holiday Cottages following the launch of its annual Staycation Index Report, also found nearby beaches, decent Wi-Fi and plenty of outdoor space are among the top things people look for when renting a holiday home.

The study also found 52 per cent can’t see themselves booking a trip abroad this year due to pressures on their budget.

As a result, half are more likely to book a staycation instead – with those who plan to go away looking to take an average of three trips in total.

And 42 per cent predict they will book a last-minute UK break in hope of getting a good offer thanks to the increased cost of living – although 52 per cent plan on choosing their holiday in advance because of this very same reason.

According to the OnePoll study, 43 per cent of those who plan to take a holiday will be having their main one on home soil, with the predicted average spend totalling £1,200.

Graham Donoghue, for Sykes Holiday Cottages, said: “While the cost of living will be having a huge impact on the majority of people’s holiday plans this year, our research shows holidaymakers are opting for multiple shorter well-deserved breaks nearer to home without compromising on their holiday experience.”

TOP 20 STAYCATION DESTINATIONS OF 2023:

1. Yorkshire

2. Cornwall

3. Scottish Highlands and Islands

4. Cumbria

5. Northumberland

6. Devon

7. Norfolk

8. Berkshire

9. North Wales

10. Isle of Wight

11. Dorset

12. Derbyshire

13. London

14. Scottish Borders

15. Buckinghamshire

16. Suffolk

17. South Wales

18. Cambridgeshire

19. Central Scotland

20. Somerset