Survey shows majority of Brits holidaying closer to home this summer
New research has revealed that the majority of Brits will be shunning sunnier climes this summer in favour of holidays closer to home – with the most popular destination something of a surprise.
Asked if they would be holidaying nearer to the UK this year due to international conflict, 55% of respondents said they would, with 45% still happy to venture further afield.
Most travellers have decided to play it safe this summer, largely in reaction to the uncertainty and disruption caused by recent world events, as well as delays at many European airports due to the introduction of the EU’s Entry/Exit System.
England set to benefit from international travel disruption
The survey found that many tourists have decided not just to holiday closer to home this summer, but actually at home – with two-fifths (40%) choosing England as their destination.
The home nation is the clear favourite, coming comfortably ahead of second-placed Spain (22%) and France (21%) in third.
And the rest of Great Britain is also proving popular, with more Brits planning to spend their holiday in Wales (17%) and Scotland (14%) than Portugal (11%) or Italy (10%).
With three-quarters (75%) of respondents planning to holiday in the UK this year, the launch of the government’s Great British Summer Savings scheme couldn’t have come at a better time.
To help ensure their staycation is as enjoyable as possible, holidaymakers should carefully check the details of their travel insurance policy before going away. Although the NHS will take care of most medical emergencies, travel insurance also covers you for holiday cancellations and the loss or theft of your baggage, personal effects and money.
The top 10 holiday destinations in Europe this summer revealed by the research are:
- England (40%)
- Spain (22%)
- France (21%)
- Wales 17%
- Scotland 14%
- Portugal 11%
- Italy 10%
- Republic of Ireland 6%
- Northern Ireland 4%
- 10. Poland (1%)
Methodology
Data sourced from a survey of 250 UK respondents carried out via Toluna in May 2026.