A recent survey of 2,000 UK adults who have taken domestic holidays highlights the importance of pubs as a key feature of staycations. According to the poll, 61 percent of respondents consider having a pub nearby essential when choosing a holiday destination within the country.

Preferences for the ideal pub experience included traditional pub food (67 percent), a cosy interior (60 percent), and a beer garden with scenic views (60 percent). Other popular features were availability of local ales (37 percent), a roaring fire (36 percent), live music or entertainment (30 percent), and being dog friendly (26 percent). Additionally, 42 percent of participants expressed a preference for what they described as a “proper local” pub, rather than a venue catering primarily to tourists.

The survey, commissioned by cottages.com, also examined broader trends in UK holidaymaking habits. Nearly half (46 percent) of respondents said their sense of adventure when travelling domestically has increased over the past decade. Over half (51 percent) indicated a preference for discovering lesser-known destinations instead of visiting well-known tourist hotspots.

Age appeared to influence this inclination: 32 percent of those aged 18 to 34 preferred hidden gems to famous landmarks, compared with 69 percent of those over 55. When asked about avoiding crowded areas, 24 percent said they actively seek out places that are not heavily visited by tourists, while an additional 46 percent look for “little-known treasures” during their planning process.

Regarding priorities for choosing a staycation, 49 percent ranked value for money as their most important factor. This was followed by good weather (34 percent), accessibility (31 percent), opportunities for local walks (28 percent), and peaceful surroundings (28 percent).

The findings suggest that pubs remain a central element of the UK holiday experience for many, complementing a growing trend toward exploring quieter, less commercialized parts of the country.