Discover the Somerset gem near Bristol, perfect for a last minute getaway

With staycations becoming increasingly popular among Brits, the team at cottages.com have put together an index highlighting the most underrated staycation hotspots across the country.

The study looked at 30 locations and ranked then based on nine different factors:

- Search Vol - The total number of searches for each location between May 24 - Apr 25.

- Insta Posts - The number of instagram posts including #LocationName.

- Number of Available Properties - The number of available properties listed on cottages.com in each location, for 2 guests, 7 days in advance (13 Jun).

- Biking Trails - The number of biking trails in each location, according to alltrails.

- Hiking Trails - The number of hiking trails in each location, according to komoot.

- Pubs per 100 sq mi - The number of results on google maps using the prompt "Pubs in X", where X is the location, per 100 square miles. Results were further filtered for those with a business category containing "pub" or "bar" and not containing "hotel".

- Climbing Areas - The number of outdoor climbing areas (crags) in each location, according to ukclimbing. The radius of the search area was based off each locations area.

- Yoga Studios - The number of results on google maps using the prompt "Yoga Studios in X", where X is the location. Results were further filtered for those with a business category containing "yoga_studio" and not containing "hotel".

- Spas - The number of results on google maps using the prompt "Spas in X", where X is the location. Results were further filtered for those with a business category containing "spa" and not containing "hotel".

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Mendip Hills topped the list as the most underrated staycation gem.

The index reads: “Filled with dramatic gorges and easy-going trails, the Mendip Hills are Somerset’s best-kept secret. With sites like Cheddar Gorge and Wookey Hole, this Area of Outstanding Beauty makes for a thrilling last-minute trip full of exploration and family-friendly fun, minus the tourist crowds.

The Mendips aren’t just beautiful, they’re geologically extraordinary. Whether you're delving into caves lit like cathedrals or following secret limestone paths carved by water and time, it’s a landscape layered with wonder.

There's 619 hiking trails and routes made for both cycling and walking, making the Mendips are a playground for explorers. Climb to Crook Peak for sweeping views to the Bristol Channel, or follow woodland paths lined with wild garlic and bluebells in spring.

Just 40 minutes from Bristol, and yet worlds away, the Mendips are perfectly placed for a quick reset. With low search volumes and 22 available properties, it’s often skipped by crowds, making it a dream destination for last-minute planners who want exploration without the queues.”

Nidderdale was the second most underrated staycation spot, followed by Exmoor, Howardian Hills and North Pennies.