3.4 million Brits (7% per cent of the adult population) plan to make the most of the Easter Bank Holiday weekend by taking at least one overnight holiday trip in the UK, with 3 million people (6% per cent) planning to take that trip in England, according to VisitEngland’s latest Trip Tracker survey. This is likely to generate some £800 million in tourism spend for the UK economy, around £700 million of which will be spent in England.
A further 4.5 million (9%) are currently undecided about whether to take an overnight trip over the Bank Holiday weekend.
The national tourist board also reveals that 6.5 million Brits (13%) have already made plans for day trips with another 13 million (26%) saying they might get out and about over the Bank Holiday weekend.
The figures reflect reports of positive forward bookings for Easter from many destinations across the country and with the trend for late bookings ever-strong, there is still a lot of opportunity for families to take spontaneous breaks or days-out.
The Easter holiday has the potential to provide a welcome boost for the industry following the impact of the severe weather earlier this year. Whilst the majority of tourism businesses were up and running, there was concern that the perception that some destinations were ‘closed’ would impact on consumer behaviour. To counter this VisitEngland launched a £1m marketing campaign funded by the Government called Spot-On England, showcasing hundreds of great value experiences throughout the country.
VisitEngland Chief Executive James Berresford said: “Easter is a fantastic time of year to spend a short break or day out with the family exploring the wonderful destinations in England. The industry has rallied following the severe weather earlier this year – it’s business as usual for tourism with a full line up of events and offers across the country, and destinations ready and waiting to welcome visitors this Easter break.”
There are plenty of events lined up across the country over the Easter holiday: Head to Occombe Farm in Paignton for The Adventures in Wonderland trail; indulge in local produce at The Brighton & Hove Food and Drink Festival; enjoy face painting, Shire Horse and Dray rides and special appearances from the Easter Bunny at Chatsworth in the Peak District; or embark on an Easter Adventure Quest at Belsay Hall in Newcastle upon Tyne.
For more ideas and inspiration on things to see and do in England over the Easter holidays, whatever the weather, go to: www.visitengland.com.
For a selection of ‘Spot-On’ offers this Spring visit www.visitengland.com/spoton.
Click here to check the weather forecast.
© VisitBritain
