August bank holiday trips expected to boost UK economy by £4.1bn

More than 11 million people are planning overnight holiday trips in the UK this August bank holiday weekend, generating an estimated £4.1bn in domestic tourism spending, according to new figures from VisitEngland.

The national tourism agency’s trip tracker survey revealed that 11.2 million Britons are “definitely” planning a domestic break. 

The figure is slightly up from the 11 million trips recorded for the same weekend in 2024 and higher than the 9.7 million trips reported in 2023.

The data offers a boost to the tourism sector, which has seen a 5% year-on-year decline in domestic overnight trips so far in 2025, falling from 32.6 million to 31.1 million at the end of May.

A further 7.3 million people remain undecided about taking a trip, with the main reasons cited as affordability, weather and waiting for deals or special offers.

Lisa Nandy, culture secretary, said: “From Cornwall and Cumbria to The Gower and Glasgow, Britain is blessed with so many fantastic destinations.

“The tourism industry is a vital part of the economy and it is great to see that this year, even more people are planning to make the most of the August bank holiday weekend by heading off on an overnight trip. This will not only provide millions with fantastic days out, but will also help create jobs and drive economic growth across the country.”

Patricia Yates, chief executive of VisitEngland, added: “It is very encouraging to see many of us are planning a domestic break for the August bank holiday weekend.

“Businesses will be looking to the long weekend for a critical late summer lift after what has been a very mixed year for many destinations. We can also see from our latest consumer research that the cost of living remains a concern. Brits are still keen to take their breaks – however, many are booking last minute, making it difficult for businesses to plan in advance, and wanting to save on accommodation, activities and eating out.”