For many, celebrating a big birthday is an important life event, with celebrations often stretching out for more than a week or two. In fact, over four in five (83%) people said they would prefer to extend their birthday celebrations with a holiday over a party or dinner.
Interest in birthday holidays is on the rise, with 38k UK Google searches for ‘birthday holiday’ in the past month, an 18% increase compared to this time last year. People are searching for location inspiration too, with ‘Birthday trip destinations’ increasing by a whopping 1,286% in the past year.
New research by Parkdean Resorts has confirmed that the growing trend of celebrating a milestone birthday with a holiday is definitely on the rise, with 60% of Brits revealing they have taken one.
The study found that Millennials are the generation embracing the trend the most, with almost two-thirds (63%) of them having taken one, whilst Boomers are the generation who have adopted the trend the least, with only half (51%) having celebrated a milestone birthday with a holiday, despite them having hit the most milestones.
When it comes to who we want to go on a milestone birthday trip with, men are most inclined to go with their partner (48%), whilst women favour going on a trip with family (44%) the most.
Gen Z (48%) and Boomers (44%) would also most like to take a trip with their significant other for their birthday, whilst Millennials (44%) would prefer a trip with the whole family. Gen X is the generation that is most likely to go on a milestone birthday trip with friends (15%).
To help those planning an upcoming milestone celebration, Parkdean have analysed Reddit forums to identify the most popular destinations in the UK for celebrating different ages.
30th birthday trips
In recent years, celebrating a 30th birthday has become more of a momentous occasion than previously, with more people embracing the milestone and choosing to make an event out of it. Reaching 30 also often comes with a new mindset, with many people choosing to prioritise experiences and making new memories, which is why celebrating with a trip has become so popular.
1. York
2. Bath
3. Lake District
Parkdean’s research reveals that York is the most popular destination for a 30th birthday staycation in the UK. Whether you’re planning a laid-back getaway or something more indulgent, York is a great place for those who want to enjoy quality food and drinks in a relaxed setting. The city has a lot to offer in the way of attractions and days out, especially if heritage and culture are your thing.
Bath was ranked as the second most popular destination for celebrating a 30th birthday. Much like York, it offers a slower pace, suggesting that 30th celebrations are becoming more about unwinding and less about partying.
Lake District holidays are another firm favourite, particularly for those looking for a peaceful escape. A cosy holiday lodge in a scenic setting makes a perfect choice for a relaxing 30th celebration.
50th birthday trips
Those travelling for a 50th birthday are more likely to lean towards a quiet, natural, or scenic destination, according to Parkdean’s research.
1. Peak District
2. Shropshire
3. Dorset
Those turning 50 in the next few years are part of the Gen X generation, who were most likely to spend a birthday trip with friends. Organising a relaxing trip to a lodge with a hot tub would be an ideal way of celebrating with friends, especially somewhere in the Peak District, where stunning sunsets and sunrises are common, or Dorset, where dramatic views and sandy beaches aren’t hard to come by.
60th birthday trips
Celebrating a 60th birthday is a big milestone and one that people choose to celebrate in lots of different ways. Whether the priority is celebrating in style, spending time with family, or a more active holiday, the top-most popular destinations offer it all:
1. London
2. Scottish Highlands
3. Isle of Wight
According to Parkdean’s research, visiting London is at the top of most people’s destination list when looking at where to go for a birthday trip to celebrate turning 60. The capital offers plenty to do, everything from theatre trips and sightseeing to concerts and culinary experiences; ticking off your bucket list isn’t hard to do on a short break in London.
The remote but picturesque Scottish Highlands were highlighted as the second most popular destination for spending a 60th birthday, offering untouched landscapes, serene tranquillity and endless walking opportunities.
The Isle of Wight, which came in third, is also a great location for those who appreciate scenic views and are interested in slowing down and switching off on their milestone holidays.
Joint birthday trips
For friends and families that have several milestones on the horizon, combining celebrations and booking a multi-generational holiday is also becoming more popular.
The prospect of having to cater for different age groups and interests can appear daunting, but holiday lodges are a great choice for a short weekend break and can help you bring the whole family together in a home away from home, allowing flexibility and independence for all.
