11.6 million Brits plan a domestic holiday in the UK during festive season, bringing £3.3 billion boost to economy

 

Survey shows that visiting friends and family and going out for a Christmas meal are most popular festive activities

 

VisitEngland’s Christmas Trip Tracker Survey released today, 18 December, shows that 11.6 million Brits are planning an overnight holiday trip in the UK during the Christmas and New Year period, bringing an estimated £3.3 billion boost to the economy.

 

The figures are up by nearly a third (32%) on last year’s results, when 8.8 million had  planned a domestic break.

 

Among those definitely planning an overnight holiday trip in England, nearly half (49%) are planning on taking two or more trips during the festive season. The survey also shows that 7% of Brits have yet to decide if they will take an overnight trip in England during this time. The top reasons are ‘waiting to see if there are any deals / special offers’ followed by ‘waiting to see what the weather is like.’

 

VisitEngland CEO Patricia Yates said: 

 

“It is encouraging to see many of us are planning a short break with friends and family during the festive season, boosting the economy through tourism. From buzzing Christmas markets to festive light trails, from winter walks with a cosy pub lunch to seasonal favourites such as the free Blackpool Illuminations, there is an experience and attraction for everyone.

 

“We know from destinations across England that 2025 has been a very mixed picture as consumers wrestle with cost-of-living uncertainties and businesses with the higher cost of trading. Our latest consumer sentiment research shows that many people are booking last minute, wanting to save on accommodation, activities and seeking good value options. So please do go out and explore the amazing destinations and attractions here on our doorstep this festive season. Tourism businesses will be very pleased to see you and I am sure you will have a fantastic time.”

 

Popular seasonal activities Brits plan to do during the festive break, after visiting friends and family, include going out for a meal (41%), visiting a Christmas market (40%) and shopping at the post-Christmas sales (33%). More than one-in-five (21%) 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 42% of 16-to-24-year-olds planning to shop at post-Christmas sales, while half (50%) are set to visit a Christmas market.

 

The full VisitEngland Christmas Trip Tracker survey can be accessed here: https://www.visitbritain.org/bank-holiday-trip-tracker

 

For ideas on what to do this festive season across England, from light trails and ice-skating to Christmas concerts and markets, please visit: VisitEngland’s New 2025 Christmas Experiences, Enchanting Lights Trails & Festive Set-Jetting | VisitBritain.org

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