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The majority of British holidaymakers would prefer to holiday in the UK rather than abroad, with 83% opting for a staycation this year, according to research from The Cumberland.
Of surveyed holidaymakers, 68% cited fears of being stranded abroad, while 62% cited uncertainty surrounding the ongoing Covid-19 crisis.
A further 55% of those surveyed admitted having concerns about quarantine measures with 44% noting self-isolation at their destination as a “major concern”.
However, 71% of respondents were intending to plan a UK holiday in 2021, suggesting that “the great British staycation is not just a short term solution to the coronavirus pandemic but a long-term option for holidaymakers and a significant confidence boost for the hospitality sector”.
The Cumberland’s latest Research Without Barriers survey also highlighted that hotels and cottages were the most popular types of accommodation for those holidaying in Britain, at 39% and 31%, respectively.
Bob Bishopp, head of commercial lending at The Cumberland, said: “This is an incredibly valuable piece of research for the British hospitality industry, as it reinforces the shift in mood amongst Britons when it comes to holidaying and travel.
“With mortgage customers across the hospitality industry, from hotels and guesthouses, to holiday let owners, we have traversed the Covid journey with them, and know how vital this staycation bounce back will be to their long-term success.”
He added: “We’re thrilled to see Brits overwhelmingly opting for a UK holiday, not only this year but into next year as well, which I’m confident will prove to be a lifeline to the entire sector.
“Those in the hospitality industry have worked incredibly hard since lockdown, in probably the most challenging circumstances the sector has seen. The goal has been to ensure the safest possible return for tourists and holidaymakers, while maintaining the safety of local residents, and that effort is now bearing fruit as we see Brits truly embracing the staycation.”
Nigel Wilkinson, managing director of Windermere Lake Cruises, added: “This research highlights the really positive momentum being built in a sector that has been severely impacted by COVID-19. Visitors are vital to our local economy, as well as our business, so we’re delighted to see that sightseeing is a top priority for staycationers.”
