16th May 2025

Bigbury-on-Sea Crowned the UK’s Most Relaxing Destination for 2025

If you’ve ever found yourself gazing out over Bigbury Beach with a sudden sense of calm, it turns out you're not alone, and now there's science to back it up.

Bigbury-on-Sea, the idyllic coastal village tucked away in the South Hams, has officially been named the most relaxing destination in the UK for 2025, according to a new study from Parkdean Resorts. The research examined factors including green space quality, noise and light pollution, cleanliness, local safety, and population density, and the South Devon shores came out on top.

What makes Bigbury-on-Sea in Devon a standout spot for relaxation?

Bigbury-on-Sea’s stunning location on the South Devon coast is where rolling countryside meets picturesque seascapes. Surrounded by three Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty and within easy reach of both Dartmoor and Exmoor National Parks, it’s a destination where visitors and locals alike are lucky enough to be wrapped up in natural beauty.

The coastal town boasts just 484 people per 10km, making it a great place to escape city crowds for peace and quiet. The area scored an impressive 73.61 for its high-quality green spaces, too. Plus, thanks to low light pollution (a night sky brightness score of just 21.58), those in Bigbury-on-Sea can enjoy evenings stargazing under clear skies, the perfect way to end a day on the coast.

Why is now the perfect time to visit Bigbury-on-Sea

This year, demand for UK getaways has skyrocketed, with Google searches up by 3,500%, and Parkdean Resorts’ research naming Devon’s Bigbury-on-Sea as the most relaxing UK location for a staycation, there’s never been a better time to plan a long weekend in South Devon.

Holidays at Parkdean Resorts Challaborough Bay Holiday Park start from just £119 and are just a 12-minute walk from Bigbury and a 10-minute drive from Bigbury Beach, making it an ideal base. Whether you're after serene downtime or seaside adventure, the park offers something for everyone: an indoor heated pool, sauna, yoga classes, soft play, adventure playgrounds, creative workshops, and more.

Andy Edge, Chief Marketing Officer at Parkdean Resorts, shares the importance of a relaxing staycation: “For many Brits, staycations are the perfect opportunity to unwind and escape the pressures of everyday life. That’s why we set out to uncover the best destinations to truly relax and recharge.

At Parkdean Resorts, we believe everyone has their own way of switching off – whether it’s taking your day to new heights on our high ropes course, enjoying the magic of a dazzling Trouper production, or simply slowing down with a peaceful stroll by the sea.

Our stunning coastal parks cater to everything from lively family adventures to laid-back escapes for couples or friends, offering the best of both worlds.

With a huge variety of activities to choose from, there’s something to spark that holiday feeling for everyone, whether it’s zooming down a waterslide or enjoying a peaceful afternoon of pottery painting. However you choose to spend your stay, stress isn’t on the schedule.”