An estimated 10.6 million Britons are planning an overnight UK holiday during the August bank holiday weekend, potentially generating £4.3 billion for the economy, according to new VisitEngland research.
VisitEngland’s August bank holiday Trip Tracker shows the number of people definitely planning a domestic overnight break is slightly lower than the 11.2 million recorded in 2025.
The equivalent figure was 11 million in 2024 and 9.7 million in 2023.
The projected spending would provide a late-summer boost for the tourism and hospitality sectors following a decline in domestic overnight trips during 2025.
Coastal destinations have experienced particular pressure, with overnight trips to the English coast down 18% year-on-year.
Tourism Minister Stephanie Peacock said: “It is brilliant that so many people are choosing to spend their August bank holiday weekend in the UK, whether enjoying the summer weather at our beautiful coastlines, or exploring our towns and cities.
“Domestic breaks truly help our local areas to thrive by boosting support for small, locally-owned businesses, strengthening social cohesion and promoting pride in where we live.
“It is also a great opportunity to make the most of the final weekend of our Great British Summer Savings scheme, allowing families to enjoy discounted access to attractions and leisure activities such as theme parks, soft play centres and cinemas, while also backing businesses who rely on footfall in the summer season.”
VisitEngland’s research found a further 5.8 million people remain undecided about taking an overnight holiday trip in England during the bank holiday weekend.
The most common reasons for delaying a decision were waiting to see what the weather would be like, looking for deals or special offers and assessing whether they could afford a trip.
VisitEngland Chief Executive Patricia Yates said: “It is very encouraging to see many of us are planning a domestic break for the August bank holiday weekend. From invigorating coastal walks, lively festivals, great pubs and boutique stays to art and culture, history and heritage, there is something for all tastes and budgets.
“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 and wanting to save on accommodation, activities, eating out and searching for good value options.
“It is nail biting if you’re a small business, so do please get out and support our amazing destinations, first class attractions and local events this long weekend and beyond.”
The figures coincide with the Government’s Great British Summer Savings scheme, which has reduced the cost of selected family attractions and leisure activities during the summer.
VisitEngland’s wider research estimates that redirecting 10% of British spending on overseas travel towards domestic holidays could generate an additional £8 billion for the UK economy annually.
The tourism body is also preparing to launch the next phase of its ‘All on England’s Coast’ campaign in the autumn.
The £2 million domestic marketing campaign will seek to encourage off-season visits to England’s coastal destinations and will be supported by a commercial partner to drive bookings.
Tourism is estimated to be worth £127 billion annually to the English economy and supports 2.1 million jobs, including across rural and coastal communities.
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