Bishop's Stortford, a historic market town in Hertfordshire, has been named the hottest destination to visit this summer by Expedia Group. The town, known for its independent shops and rich history, saw a 90% increase in searches compared to last year.
Why Bishop's Stortford?
The town, sold to the Bishop of London in 1060, boasts a pretty high street and town square with period buildings. Bridge Street features timber-framed Tudor buildings, Georgian townhouses, and Victorian architecture. The River Stort towpath, a globally rare chalk river, offers a scenic stroll through Castle Gardens, Sworders Field, and Grange Paddocks meadows.
Key Attractions
- Waytemore Castle: A Norman motte-and-bailey castle in the town centre, surrounded by Castle Gardens, ideal for picnics.
- Redricks Open Water Swimming Lake: Located in nearby Sawbridgeworth, offering a 750-metre circuit with ducks, swans, and fish. Open year-round with coaching and Full Moon Swim events.
Getting There
Bishop's Stortford is easily accessible: 40 minutes by train from London Liverpool Street or Cambridge, and 10 minutes from Stansted Airport by train or car.
Travel Trends
Expedia's Unpack ’26 Summer report found that 45% of Brits are more interested in UK breaks this summer, influenced by the World Cup and rising airfare costs due to the Iran War. Searches for coastal towns like Scarborough and Tenby are up 40%, while rural destinations and national park hotspots have also spiked.
Top Destinations Summer 2026
- Bishop’s Stortford, Hertfordshire: 90% search increase
- Sudbury, Suffolk: 60%
- Reading, Berkshire: 60%
- Nottinghamshire: 40%
- Scarborough, North Yorkshire: 40%
- Harrogate, North Yorkshire: 40%
- Tenby, Pembrokeshire: 35%
- Glasgow: 30%
- Paisley, Renfrewshire: 30%
- Canterbury, Kent: 30%
Melanie Fish, spokesperson at Expedia Group, said: “This summer, travel isn’t slowing down - it’s being reshaped. As major global events and rising costs influence decisions, travellers are either staying closer to home or seeking out destinations where they can get more for their money.”
