Tuesday May 5th 2026
More UK families are turning to active stays, such as Lost Shore Surf Resort in Midlothian, over traditional holiday's
Written by Midlothian View Reporter, Liam Eunson
New travel trends have found that active short breaks are on the rise as UK families seek more from their holidays.
The rise in demand for beginner-friendly, experience-led breaks closer to home, draws more families towards active trips such as Lost Shore Surf Resort in Midlothian.
Families are increasingly swapping traditional holidays for active, experience-led breaks closer to home, with Midlothian’s Lost Shore Surf Resort seeing strong demand for beginner-friendly stays that combine activity, relaxation and time together.
These new travel trends how a clear shift in how people are planning time away in 2026, with a focus on short breaks that offer more than just a change of location.
And, at a time where rising jet fuel costs may drastically effect families travel plans this summer, Scottish holiday options such as Lost Shore are seeing a rise in business.
VisitBritain data shows 77% of UK adults are planning a domestic trip in the next 12 months, driven by cost, convenience and a desire to make trips feel more meaningful. ABTA’s latest Travel Trends Report also highlights growing demand for experiences, wellbeing and shared activities while travelling.
At Lost Shore, that shift is already visible, with around half of those using the wave pool taking part in beginner surf lessons. This is due to the resort’s controlled environment that removes many of the traditional barriers associated with the sport, with no need for prior experience and consistent, year-round conditions making it accessible for all ages and abilities.
Lost Shore Surf Resort’s managing director, Lee Wood, explained that the shift towards active stays is ‘less about ticking off destinations and more about doing something memorable while your there’, highlighting that the unique experience is more sought-after than checking a location off the travel list.
Lee Wood added that ‘around half of those in the water at Lost Shore are taking beginner lessons, which just highlights just how many visitors are trying surfing for the first time’.
Lost Shore offers visitors to build short breaks around a mix of both downtime and activity, from surf lessons and open sessions in the wave pool to staying on-site in waterfront pods or Hilltop Lodges.
Beyond the surf, the resort offers a range of activities designed to appeal to all ages and interests. Surfskate sessions, sauna and spa facilities, and relaxed outdoor spaces allow visitors to unwind, while informal games and open areas for children create space for families to spend time together. The result is a flexible short break where different generations can do their own thing, while still sharing the experience.
Due to its location in Midlothian, being near Edinburgh Airport and Edinburgh City Centre, Lost Shore has risen in popularity in recent years, becoming Scotland’s pioneering inland surf destination and winning awards.
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