York crowned top mini break destination for 2015

York has been named the top ‘mini break’ destination for 2015, according to a new survey conducted by YouGov and commissioned by hotel chain QHotels.

The survey, which polled 2,225 adults, asked which parts of the country Britons are planning on travelling to in 2015 and what they look for in a mini break destination.

York came top of the list of mini break destinations, with 37% of respondents saying they would consider a trip to the city this year.

The city was followed by Shakespeare’s birthplace Stratford-upon-Avon (24%), while the historic university cities of Oxford (23%) and Cambridge (19%) claimed third and fourth place on the list of 10.

The opportunity to visit historical attractions was revealed as the most important factor of those listed, when choosing a mini break destination (55%). Having a variety of bars and restaurants came in at second place (45%), followed by the availability of museums and galleries (39%), good shopping (35%) and the opportunity to see nature and wildlife (33%).

The poll also revealed 72% of Britons said they would go on more or the same number of mini breaks in 2015 compared to 2014.

Claire Rowland, director of marketing at QHotels, said: “We’re lucky to have so much history on our doorstep in Britain and it’s pleasing to see so many of us are planning on getting out and exploring this year.

“York claimed a well-deserved place at the top of list but it was interesting to see how many other historic cities are in the top five and shows why historical attractions are the most important thing when choosing a destination for a mini break.”

Below is the full list:

  1. York 37%
  2. Stratford-upon-Avon 24%
  3. Oxford 23%
  4. Cambridge 19%
  5. Manchester 17%
  6. Glasgow 16%
  7. Liverpool 16%
  8. Newcastle 13%
  9. Leeds 9%
  10. Nottingham 8%