The best staycation spot has 'outstanding natural beauty' and must-see coastlines - top 10 list

The most sustainable staycation destination has been described as having lots of beautiful nature to explore.

Research has found the top 10 UK spots to visit this year, with locations in Scotland, England and Wales making the list.

Devon took the top spot in research carried out by staycation provider Verdant Leisure.

This considered data such as public EV chargers, renewable electricity installations, renewable energy usage, waste recycling rate, number of green spaces and bus stops in each county.

Travel expert for the brand, Francesca Houldsworth added: "In the south of England, Devon’s popularity as a holiday destination derives from its outstanding natural beauty, from moorlands to coastlines.

"Yet its high number of renewable energy installations (17,757), nearly 400 EV chargers and well-connected bus routes are what make this county the most eco-friendly place for holidaymakers to visit in the UK.”

Number two on the list was Pembrokeshire in Wales, and this has plenty for holidaymakers to do and see as well as being sustainable.

The expert said: "Dubbed the world’s second-best coastline, Pembrokeshire is set in South-West Wales and boasts ample beaches, countryside and quaint fishing villages.

"Attracting nature lovers from across the globe, it is little wonder that Pembrokeshire is the second most sustainable place for a staycation in the UK. The county has made impressive strides towards waste recycling which helped tip this breathtaking national park a spot in the ranking.”

Most sustainable staycations

1. Devon

2. Pembrokeshire

3. Cornwall

4. Scottish Highlands

5. Dumfries & Galloway

6. East Lothian

7. Powys

8. Northumberland

9. Dorset

10. Gwynedd

The Scottish Highlands were the highest-ranking place in Scotland, taking the number four spot.

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Francesca said: "Around 700 miles further north [from Cornwall] you’ll find the first Scottish location on the list, with vastly contrasting landscapes.

"Pine forests, waterfalls and unique wildlife such as dolphins and red deer occupy the Highlands, alongside legendary creatures such as the infamous Loch Ness Monster.

"Also home to the Cairngorms (the UK's largest national park) and Britain's largest mountain Ben Nevis, it comes as no surprise that the Scottish Highlands has the second highest green space provision in the ranking (69 sqm per person).”