Demand for UK breaks is increasing, according to Epsom Coaches. The RATP Dev-owned operator said bookings for domestic trips are up by over 13% compared to the same time last year. The firm said the top five destinations are Sidmouth, Chatsworth, Newcastle, ‘island hopping’ in the Hebrides and Cornwall.
A recent poll by travel deals firm Travelzoo has revealed that the UK is the top destination for British holidaymakers this year, with 27% of those polled choosing a ‘staycation’ over Spain (21%) and France (10%), citing safety as a prime concern.
And, according to market research firm Mintel, it is short and sweet breaks that are top of the holiday charts, with a quarter of holidaymakers (26%) saying they expect to take more short breaks, i.e. within one to three nights over the next 12 months, compared to one in five (21%) who say they expect to take longer trips.
Huw Barrington, Commercial Director at Epsom Coaches said: “It is perhaps no surprise that recent events in Europe have had an impact on people’s travel decisions. However, Britain boasts some truly lovely destinations for a ‘staycation.’
“Travelling by coach can be seen as a safer option than other forms of transport nowadays and, of course, passengers have the added incentive of being able to just sit back and relax – rather than worrying about driving and parking.”
