12.5 million Brits plan UK holiday trip for Easter weekend, bringing £4.8 billion boost

Thinking about a getaway this Easter? It seems a lot of people are, and they’re looking no further than their own doorstep. According to the latest news from tourism experts, a huge number of Brits are planning a domestic holiday over the upcoming Easter weekend. A new survey from VisitEngland shows that a whopping 12.5 million people are gearing up for an overnight trip right here in the UK. This isn't just good news for those after a well-earned break; it's set to provide a massive £4.8 billion boost to the economy. That’s a fantastic shot in the arm for local businesses, from the seaside chip shop to the countryside B&B, all getting ready for a busy spring.

The numbers behind the easter rush

It’s clear that the love for a Great British holiday is stronger than ever. The recent survey, which was carried out between 19th-23rd March 2026, gives a fascinating snapshot of our travel plans. The 12.5 million Brits planning a domestic trip this Easter far outnumber the 7.4 million who are packing their passports for a holiday abroad. It seems the staycation is officially king this springtime.

This isn't just a one-off, either. The trend for exploring home turf during the Easter weekend has been growing steadily. Just look at the figures from previous years:

• 2026: 12.5 million

• 2025: 10.6 million

• 2024: 11 million

• 2023: 6.5 million

The numbers show a clear pattern: more and more people are choosing to discover the amazing destinations right here in England and the wider UK. For those planning an overnight trip, the most popular choice is a short and sweet break, with most people opting for a one-to-three-night stay. It’s the perfect length for a springtime refresh without the hassle of long-haul travel. This dedication to domestic tourism is providing a reliable boost for the whole country.

What's holding some people back?

While millions have their bags packed, another 5.1 million people are still playing it by ear. Sound familiar? The top two reasons for being undecided about an Easter trip are all about budgeting and, you guessed it, the classic British weather. Many are waiting to see if they can afford a break, while others have one eye on the forecast, hoping for a bit of spring sunshine before committing to a plan.

The cost of living continues to have an impact on how people approach their holiday planning. For many, careful budgeting is the only way to make a trip happen. The survey also revealed that wider world events are on people's minds. More than a quarter of those asked expressed some concern about the impact of the Middle East conflict on their travel plans for April and May. For some, this meant having less money to spend, while for others, it solidified their decision to choose a domestic holiday over one abroad, seeking a bit more certainty closer to home.

A big boost for Britain's businesses

That £4.8 billion figure is more than just a number; it’s a lifeline for countless businesses across the country. The Easter weekend is a critical time for the tourism sector, providing much-needed income after the quieter winter months. This impressive spending gives a huge boost to local economies, supporting jobs and helping communities to thrive. The overall tourism industry is a cornerstone of the UK economy, worth £147 billion and supporting 2.4 million jobs.

Tourism Minister Stephanie Peacock commented on the positive news:

“It is wonderful that so many people are planning on having a staycation this Easter weekend, whether that’s spending time visiting our stunning landscapes and coastlines or exploring our vibrant towns, cities and cultural landmarks. Supporting domestic tourism helps local areas thrive - fuelling small businesses, boosting pride, and strengthening community economies. Spring is a fantastic time for more people to get out and discover the variety of incredible places on our doorsteps.”

VisitEngland Chief Executive Patricia Yates also highlighted the importance of the holiday weekend for businesses and the appeal of a domestic trip:

“Tourism businesses and destinations will be looking to the critical Easter weekend for much needed cash flow so it’s encouraging to see so many of us are planning a holiday at home, with its ease, convenience and certainty of budgeting. We also know that the cost of living remains a concern for holidaymakers, leaving it difficult too for businesses to plan in advance.”

Why staycations are winning this spring

So, why are so many Brits choosing to holiday at home? Convenience is a big part of it. A domestic trip removes the stress of airports, currency exchange, and language barriers. It makes budgeting simpler and the entire holiday experience feel more relaxed. But it’s also about what England has to offer, especially during springtime. The country comes alive with possibilities for all kinds of activities.

As Patricia Yates from VisitEngland put it, there’s something for everyone:

“We have incredible activities, experiences and places to stay for all tastes and budgets, and there really is nowhere quite like Britain in springtime. From walks in our beautiful countryside with the promise of a pub lunch or discovering contemporary culture in our buzzing cities to enjoying fish and chips on the beach, there is something for everyone. So, a rallying cry to please go out and explore the amazing destinations and events here on our doorstep this spring. Tourism businesses will be very pleased to welcome you, you will have an amazing time and create memories to make you smile all year.”

Whether it’s a city break, a countryside escape, or a trip to the seaside, the options are endless. This variety, combined with the ease of planning, is making a domestic holiday an increasingly popular choice for the Easter break.

Shining a light on coastal destinations

While the overall picture for domestic tourism is bright, some areas have faced bigger challenges. In particular, our beloved coastal destinations have seen a drop in visitor numbers recently. These towns are the heart of the classic British holiday, and they rely heavily on tourism to support their local economy. A decline in visits has a real impact on the businesses and people who live there.

Recognising this, VisitBritain and VisitEngland have been working to encourage more people to rediscover the seaside. One example is a pilot campaign aimed at giving a boost to holidays along England’s North West coast. The potential is huge. If just a fraction of the money Brits spend on holidays abroad was spent on a domestic trip instead, it would have a massive positive impact. In fact, converting just 10% of that spending would deliver an £8 billion boost to the British economy every year. It’s a powerful reminder of how choosing to holiday at home supports our own amazing destinations. With so many Brits planning an Easter trip this year, it’s brilliant news for every corner of the country, especially those beautiful coastal spots waiting to be explored.