Staycations Across the UK This August Bank Holiday Drive Over Four Billion Economic Boost

This surge is seen as a much-needed uplift for the domestic tourism sector, which had faced challenges earlier in the year.

The 2025 data shows a slight increase in the number of people planning an overnight trip in the UK over the August bank holiday compared to last year. The number has grown from 11 million in 2024 to 11.2 million in 2025. Notably, this is an increase from 9.7 million holidaymakers in 2023, highlighting a positive trend in UK domestic tourism. This rise in holidaymakers is expected to help boost the tourism industry, providing much-needed financial support across various regions and local businesses.

However, despite the increase in bookings, domestic overnight trips overall saw a 5% decrease from 32.6 million trips in 2024 to 31.1 million by the end of May 2025, according to VisitEngland's year-to-date statistics. This underscores the importance of the August bank holiday for a sector that is still recovering from fluctuating tourism trends.

With the growing demand for staycations, British destinations are seeing increasing numbers of visitors, giving local businesses a significant financial uplift during the holiday weekend. As families, couples, and solo travelers head to these top destinations, the domestic tourism industry is expected to see substantial benefits in terms of both jobs and economic growth.

The survey also revealed that 7.3 million people are still undecided about their bank holiday plans, largely due to financial concerns and uncertainty over the weather. Many Brits are waiting to see if they can afford the trip, or if any special offers or deals arise closer to the date. This indecision reflects ongoing economic concerns stemming from the cost of living, with many travelers looking for affordable travel options and seeking to save on accommodation, activities, and dining out.

However, despite these concerns, the desire for a holiday getaway remains strong, with many still eager to explore the beauty of the UK. Businesses across the country are hopeful that these last-minute bookings will provide a vital economic boost before the summer ends.