Every year, Brits get to enjoy not one, but two bank holidays in May. This year with the Kings Coronation, the UK will have a whopping three bank holidays in one month, so if there has ever been a time to maximise a long weekend, it’s now. However, according to data from Hotels.com^®, the first bank holiday in May is the most wasted one of the year, with 20% less bookings than the second May bank holiday¹.

Whilst the first May bank holiday may be the most forgotten about, it’s actually the best time for Brits to take a break, for this very reason. Not only are there less people travelling this weekend, but the average rate for stays in top destinations is much lower compared to the other bank holiday weekends.

On average the likes of London is almost £30 cheaper per night for the first May bank holiday compared to the second, as is the likes of Amsterdam (-£25), Paris (-£42), Cardiff (-£19) and Glasgow (-£23)², all of which come in cheaper for stays.

Hotels.com found that the top 10 most popular destinations over the first May bank holiday are³:

1. London
2. Manchester
3. Birmingham
4. Liverpool
5. Blackpool
6. Edinburgh
7. Amsterdam
8. Paris
9. Cardiff
10. Glasgow

Whilst the top destinations may be dominated by domestic cities, compared to the likes of the August bank holiday, Amsterdam has jumped 13^th to 7^th and New York is up from 20^th to 15^th4. However, for the second May bank holiday, Devon has made it into the top 10, alongside Mallorca and Barcelona which is up 15 places.⁵

Hotels.com has the perfect somewhere for every bank holiday, whether travellers are looking for a long weekend on the beach, a hike in the country or spa break just up the road from their home. 

New Road Hotel, London: If it’s a trip to the capital you fancy this bank holiday, then the New Road Hotel is the one for you. Whether you are off to see a show, see the sites or just to see the city, this hotel is perfect for your stay. With a gorgeous restaurant and a games room, there is something for everyone. *Rooms from £162 per night

Parkgate Hotel, Cardiff: If you are looking to add a sprinkling of luxury to your break, then the Parkgate Hotel is the perfect somewhere. Located in the centre of Cardiff, this historic and elegant hotel is close to everything the city has to offer. Alternatively, you can enjoy the hotel spa if it’s a weekend of R&R you are after. *Rooms from £136 per night

Moxy, Amsterdam: If it’s an abroad long weekend you want, then Amsterdam could be the winner. Not only is it brimming with activities, but it is home to a huge variety of top-notch hotels. In particular, the Moxy hotel is located right on Amsterdam’s oldest working harbour and is complete with epic views from their cosy communal rooms. Time to get booking! *Rooms from £157 per night

Dakota, Glasgow: For the May Day bank holiday, why not try visiting Scotland’s biggest city, Glasgow. Travellers can enjoy the luxury of staying at the Dakota hotel and sample the epic food on offer at the Grill restaurant and follow it up with a cocktail at the bar, Jacks. What better way to spend the long weekend? *Rooms from £140 per night

OKKO Hotels Paris Gare de l’Est, Paris: Enjoy exploring the city of Paris for your first May bank holiday this year. Not only can you wake up and sample the best croissants in the world every morning, but you can stay at the stunning OKKO Hotel. Located in the heart of the Gare de l’Est district this hotel has everything from a great location to snacks on tap.*Rooms from £177 per night

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¹International and domestic room nights booked from a UK POSa for check ins from 29.04.22 – 02.05.22 vs 02.06.22 – 05.06.22 vs 26.08.22 – 29.08.22

²Average daily room rate for international and domestic destinations, for check ins 29.04.22 – 02.05.22 vs 02.06.22 – 05.06.22

³International and domestic room nights booked from a UK POSa for check ins 29.04.22 – 02.05.22, broken out via volume per city

⁴International and domestic volume of room nights booked from a UK POSa for check ins from 29.04.22 – 02.05.22 vs 26.08.22 – 29.08.22

⁵ International and domestic volume of room nights booked from a UK POSa for check ins from 29.04.22 – 02.05.22 vs 02.06.22 – 05.06.22