Research by Norwich Union suggests that, as a result of the current economic climate, an estimated one in three Britons is holidaying in the UK, rather than going abroad. With the entire British Isles to choose from many holiday-makers, both from the UK and overseas, are looking for the destination that offers a little bit of everything: dining, shopping, outdoor pursuits, a good climate, history and, of course, beaches.

Newquay in Cornwall fits the criteria for most holiday-makers. The beaches around the Atlantic Coast of Cornwall and Newquay are considered to be among the best in Western Europe. Fed by the Gulf Stream, the waters are warm, clear and offer fantastic opportunities to surf. Newquay is the surfing capital of the UK; the waves attract professional surfers from across the world, but there is a wide selection of surfing schools and courses available for novices wishing to take part in this dynamic sport. Newquay offers beaches and conditions to suit every level of surfer, from the absolute beginner to the seasoned boarder.

To get deeper into the water, but without getting wet, you might like to take a trip to the Blue Reef Aquarium. This is a perfect day out for all the family - especially if the weather takes a turn for the worse. The Aquarium consists of series of stunning marine displays that recreate the underwater habitats of fish and sea life from Cornwall to the Caribbean. The primary attraction is a 250, 000 litre display that is home to moray eels, stingrays, giant groupers, vibrantly-coloured reef fish and black and white-tipped reef sharks. You can even walk through the exhibit via the walkthrough tunnel; a chance to get up and close, without getting too personal!

For wildlife above the waves, you might consider a trip to Newquay Zoo; ten acres of tropical, lakeside gardens packed with exciting wildlife, as well as beautiful picnic areas and summer barbeques. The zoo is also home to many of the world's most endangered species, including red pandas, black apes and pumas. Since 1996, the zoo has earned itself ten awards and has over 300 animals that are the subject of informative and educational displays designed to raise awareness of the zoo's innovative conservation programme.

A holiday anywhere wouldn't be much without the chance to eat out and sample the local cuisine. Newquay offers a huge selection of restaurants from fast food to fine dining. Many of the local restaurants specialise in the local seafood; places such as the New Harbour Restaurant offer the chance to try seafood and fish fresh from the sea. In this restaurant, the captain calls the chef to inform him of the day's catch and the menu is created from there! Newquay is very definitely on the map when it comes to eating out and, as well as an abundance of Cornish restaurants, there are also restaurants available that offer a taste of cuisines from around the world.

Cornwall is the stuff of myth and legend and an important archaeological hotspot. For archaeology enthusiasts and history buffs, a trip to Cliff Castle is well worth a visit. This Iron Age Promontory Fort shows evidence of Iron Age smelting and remained occupied until well into the Middle Ages. It is set against a dramatic coastline and, although the strip of land that joined the promontory to the mainland has been eroded, it is accessible via a bridge.

Whatever your reasons for holidaying in the UK, Newquay holidays offer a climate and a setting that is perfect for holiday-makers of all types.