Over five million Brits to take Bank Holiday trip, says VisitEngland
More than five million Britons are planning an overnight holiday trip in the UK this August Bank Holiday weekend, according to tourist board VisitEngland.
Of this figure, four million people, or almost 10% of the adult population, are planning to take an overnight trip in England specifically. Overall, the visits are expected to generate a £1.2b tourism spend for the economy, of which £940m will be spent in England.
Day trips also popular, with six million people planning a visit to the seaside (44%), a trip to the countryside or a village (34%), or a visit to a large town or city (21%). A further 18% are planning to see an attraction such as a stately home or a theme park.
In addition, 7.6 million Britons (15%) are currently undecided about whether to take an overnight trip, with 34% waiting to see what the weather will be like. Some (29%) have delayed their decision due to financial concerns, while 24% are not sure where they would like to go. One in five (20%) is waiting to see if there will be any special deals, while a similar percentage (21%) would prefer to book last minute.
James Berresford, VisitEngland chief executive, called the figures "testament to the fantastic product on offer in England".
"With an enormous amount going on this weekend at our world class indoor and outdoor attractions and a host of events and festivals happening across the country, there is still time to plan a last-minute short break or day trip in England," he said.
Minister for tourism Helen Grant said the weekend was set to be a "bumper" holiday for domestic tourism.
The BHA urges businesses to support new VisitEngland campaign >>
VisitEngland report highlights need for tourism to embrace technology >>
Easter tourism strong as 3.4 million Brits plan Bank Holiday trip >>