Record numbers of Britons plan trip in UK during festive season, bringing £2.9 billion boost to economy

VisitEngland’s Christmas Trip Tracker survey shows that 14.5 million Brits are definitely planning an overnight trip in the UK during Christmas and New Year, bringing an estimated £2.9 billion boost to the economy.

The figures are the highest since this survey began in its current form in 2012.

The survey shows an increase on last year’s results when 13.4 million Britons planned to take an overnight trip in the UK during the festive season. In 2017 the figure was 11.1 million and in 2016 it was 11.7 million.

Tourism Minister Helen Whately said: "It is great that so many people are planning a UK trip this Christmas. It's good news for jobs and businesses within the tourism sector and a boost to the economy."

VisitEngland Director Patricia Yates said: “Tourism businesses across the length and breadth of the UK will be looking forward to a good Christmas season delivering economic growth as we start the new decade. It is no wonder Brits are being tempted to explore their own backyard with the ease and convenience and the quality on offer.

“Right across the country visitors will find festive activities to enjoy no matter what the weather. From seasonal experiences visiting Christmas markets to wintry beach walks with four legged friends and family or cultural attractions in our vibrant cities, holidaying at home continues to be a great choice.”

Popular seasonal activities Brits plan to do include going out for a meal (45%), shopping at post-Christmas sales (38%) and visiting a Christmas market (34%). Almost one in four people (24%) will participate in outdoor activities such as walking or cycling.

Of those surveyed, younger people are more likely to spend money at seasonal shopping events, with 45% of 25-to-34 year olds planning to shop at post-Christmas sales and 52% planning to visit a Christmas market.

Among those definitely planning an overnight trip in England, 43% are planning on taking two or more trips during the festive period. The survey also shows that 12% of Brits have yet to decide if they will take an overnight trip in the England during the holidays.

Tourism is worth £127 billion annually to the UK economy, creating jobs and boosting economic growth across its nations and region.