For decades, places like Ibiza and Magaluf have been synonymous with youth travel—a rite of passage where nights are spent dancing until dawn and days, well, recovering. But Gen Z is showing they’d rather fill their itineraries with history and scenic views than shots and clubs. A shift is underway, and it’s transforming the way young people travel, especially in the UK, where castles, ancient architecture, and lush countryside are drawing a new crowd of culturally curious travelers.
Escaping the Crowds for the Calm of the Countryside
On a quiet day, you might find people perched atop Alexandra Park’s hillside in Bath, overlooking the ancient city with its Georgian architecture and rolling green hills. For many, it’s the perfect spot to pause and take in the historic surroundings. This change of pace isn’t just a personal preference for one or two; it’s a growing trend among Gen Z travelers who are choosing peaceful weekends close to home over wild nights in foreign locales.
“I used to head for the nightlife scene, but lately, I’ve been drawn to places with history, with a story to tell,” says Louisa Hone, a Gen Z traveler and solo adventurer who documents her trips to some of the UK’s hidden gems on TikTok. Her posts, filled with scenic countryside views and less-trodden trails, are attracting an audience that’s increasingly interested in seeing their own backyard. “It’s so much more fulfilling, honestly, and my followers seem to agree.”
SkyParkSecure’s Young People’s Travel Report highlights this shift, with just 5% of Gen Z respondents saying party holidays “appeal” to them. And a surprising 23% of young people surveyed said they would actively avoid destinations known for partying. Instead, their getaways now lean toward culture, nature, and even a touch of nostalgia, as they explore their own roots.
Sobriety and Safety: New Priorities in Youth Travel
One of the big factors behind this shift is a changing relationship with alcohol. In recent years, Gen Z has been labeled as the “sober generation,” and the data backs it up. StudentUniverse’s 2024 State of Student Youth Travel Report found that many young travelers avoid drinking while away to prevent risky situations in unfamiliar settings. This sober lifestyle has made loud, alcohol-fueled travel less appealing, leading young people to destinations that offer other forms of engagement.
And it’s not just about avoiding the nightlife. For many, safety plays a significant role too. Navigating a quiet village or a historic site feels more secure than the chaos of a packed club or bar strip. The shift toward sober travel has opened up a new world of destinations that offer relaxation, a bit of quiet, and often, a stronger connection to local culture.
An Abundance of Culture Right at Home
With its 500 National Trust sites, 400 English Heritage locations, and 35 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, the UK offers endless options for those interested in a cultural staycation. Bath, for instance, is not only home to its famed Roman baths but also plays host to a Jane Austen center, medieval castles, and the surrounding Cotswolds’ idyllic villages.
Staying local has its perks. Not only do travelers avoid the hassle and cost of international flights, but they also get to experience parts of the UK they might not otherwise see. And there’s no shortage of options: whether it’s the Lake District, the castles of Northumberland, or the beaches of Cornwall, these destinations offer plenty to explore without crossing any borders.
Louisa Hone puts it well, saying, “The UK has so many hidden gems, and the memories you make in these places feel more meaningful.” Her enthusiasm for local travel has struck a chord on social media, where younger travelers are actively sharing their tips, routes, and recommendations for culturally rich destinations across the country.
Eco-Conscious Travel: Gen Z Embraces Sustainable Choices
Beyond the cultural draw, Gen Z’s interest in sustainable travel has made domestic trips increasingly popular. According to StudentUniverse, 13% of Gen Z respondents avoid air travel entirely because of environmental concerns, while 46% opt for trains to reduce their carbon footprint. This preference aligns with a broader consciousness about climate, and it’s one that’s prompting younger people to swap flights for trains and road trips for local bus routes.
“I think it’s a balancing act between cost and sustainability,” says Iain Griffin, CEO of Seatfrog, a train ticket app. “If they find affordable rail options, they’ll take them. Otherwise, they’ll consider alternatives even if they aren’t as eco-friendly.” With more apps and services promoting low-cost, eco-conscious travel, many Gen Z travelers now plan their itineraries with the planet in mind.
And the preference for trains is not just a matter of eco-consciousness. Traveling by train offers a unique, scenic way to experience the UK, one that’s less about the destination and more about the journey—a mindset that many Gen Zers are embracing wholeheartedly.
Battling Burnout: Why Local Getaways Are the Perfect Reset
Young adults today are dealing with unprecedented levels of burnout, and many are turning to local travel as a respite. Iain Griffin notes, “We know from our research that 27% of Gen Zs were only planning to travel within the UK this year.” This is a generation that has endured recent years of lockdowns, economic uncertainty, and social pressure. For them, a peaceful retreat, even if just a few hours away, offers a much-needed break without the added stress of airport delays, language barriers, or unfamiliar surroundings.
Taking a quiet hike, visiting a historic town, or simply relaxing in nature provides a simpler, more meaningful experience—one that many Gen Z travelers now prefer. For instance, the UK’s network of hiking trails, from the Peak District to the Scottish Highlands, allows travelers to immerse themselves in breathtaking landscapes that don’t require a plane ticket or passport.
The End of Party Tourism?
The era of the “party holiday” may be fading, as Gen Z redefines what it means to travel. They’re increasingly choosing quiet moments, cultural immersion, and sustainable practices over loud, tourist-heavy nightlife scenes. With a collective focus on experiences over escapism, this generation isn’t looking to run away from their day-to-day but rather to enrich it with experiences that resonate.
In a world that often feels noisy and overwhelming, these young travelers are carving out their own paths—ones that lead not to clubs and crowded resorts but to ancient paths, heritage sites, and serene landscapes. They’re redefining what it means to travel, and the UK’s historic hillsides, ancient cities, and vibrant culture are ready to welcome them.
