Accommodation business confidence at a ‘record high', says VisitEngland
Business confidence among accommodation providers is at a "record high" for the summer holidays after a record number of domestic holiday trips were taken during the first the first four months of the year, according to a VisitEngland survey published today (2 August).
Domestic trips in England were up 8% year-on-year to 11 million between January and April, while spending increased by 22% to £2.8b, taking both measures to record levels for the period.
More than half of the 500 operators of hotels, guest houses and camping/caravan sites in England who were questioned for the survey said that they are expecting an increase in visitors following the EU referendum, particularly from the domestic market.
Around 40% of operators reported an increase in visitor numbers so far this year, while a further 30% said that performance was being maintained.
Tourism minister Tracey Crouch said the number of people holidaying in England is at a "record high" and that is should come as "no surprise" that more people are planning staycations this summer.
VisitEngland director Patricia Yates added: "It's a fantastic opportunity for the tourism industry to showcase the range of quality tourism products on offer across the country."
She added that, with the weakened pound, a holiday at home also gave people the reassurance and certainty of budgeting for a domestic trip.
UKinbound asks Theresa May to 'support our industry' >>
British tourism industry predicted to benefit from Brexit >>
Daughter of hotel and pub owner appointed as culture secretary >>
Latest video from The Caterer
