When looking for your next staycation, it makes sense to hunt for the best-rated and most popular spots – but the UK is also full of unsung heroes that are well worth a trip. A study by insurance comparison site Go.Compare has crowned Newport in South Wales as the least appealing city for a UK staycation, but locals say that couldn’t be further from the truth.
The research evaluated 55 UK destinations based on three key factors: family-friendly accommodation, attractions, and affordability during school holidays. Newport came in last place, boasting only 72 family-friendly hotels and 20 child-oriented attractions.
This is largely due to the average price of accommodation soaring by 47 per cent during school holidays compared to term time – the highest increase across the UK. Despite these rankings, Newport still has plenty to offer families, from the bustling Newport Market filled with delicious food vendors, to the Riverside Theatre suitable for all ages, and the Newport County football ground for sports enthusiasts, reports Wales Online.
Newport has a rich history
(Image: Copyright Unknown)
MP for Newport East, Jessica Morden, has hit back at critics with a glowing endorsement of her constituency: “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.”
She continued, “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!”
Places to eat and drink
If you’re looking for a drink or bite to eat, Le Pub comes highly recommended, with a full calendar of events from gigs to quizzes. One visitor reviewing the pub online said: “I absolutely loved this place first time stayed in Newport and thus little gem was amazing. The staff were brilliant. The vegan food is gorgeous and the large selection of drinks on offer especially my favourite rum. Music was great and soo many friendly customers.”
For a more traditional pub vibe, try the Pen and Wig on Stow Hill, where visitors rave about their extensive beer and ale selection. Or, for coffee, try the family-run Rogue Fox cafe. One visitor said: “A true little gem in the heart of Newport. This place has a beautiful atmosphere with great coffee, food and service. Usually frequent this place before and after a train journey, as it so close to the train station and is by far the best place in the area. Strongly recommend the avocado on sourdough with bacon and the cappuccino… portion sizes are fantastic value with no skimping on quality.”
Getting there
It’s easy to reach Newport via public transport from London. The direct train service from Paddington will get you to the Welsh town in just 90 minutes. Alternatively, it’s a three-hour drive along the M4 towards Bristol, followed by a trip over the Severn Bridge.
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