Welsh cities have not fared well in recent research which has named one as the worst staycation spot in the UK and two others as runners-up. Research by insurance comparison site Go.Compare has named Newport as the worst city in the UK for a staycation.
The index ranked 55 destinations across the UK, with a focus on three key factors, family-friendly accommodation, attractions, and affordability during school breaks. Newport was identified as the lowest-ranking location with just 72 family-friendly hotels and 20 attractions tailored for children. Find out about the latest events in Wales by signing up to our What’s On newsletter here.
Cardiff and Swansea were then ranked the second and third worst cities in the UK for a staycation. This is partly due to families facing an average price hike in accommodation of 47% if they stay in Wales during school holidays compared to term time, which is the highest price hike in the UK.
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While Go.Compare may not rank Newport highly, there is still a lot the city can offer for families. From the amazing Newport Market, which is full of fantastic food vendors to try, to the Riverside Theatre which is perfect for all ages and the Newport County football ground, where you can enjoy some sport.
MP for Newport East, which includes the city of Newport, Jessica Morden said: “Newport is a fantastic place for a staycation! In my constituency of Newport East, you’ll find the wonderful Wetlands, an excellent spot for families and one of the best locations for nature-spotting in Wales, the 5-star Celtic Manor and the International Convention Centre, our 15th-century ship, the finest example of its kind in the world, and our unique and amazing Transporter Bridge, with a new visitor centre set to open in the next few weeks.
“You’ll also enjoy the vibrant grassroots music scene, our beautiful parks, city centre dining experiences like Newport Market, theatres, the National Velodrome of Wales, the historic Newport Cathedral, charming arcades, and a new leisure centre with a fun pool currently under construction. I could go on—there’s just so much to see and do.”
So…. take that GoCompare!