Great British ‘foodie staycation’ summer: 25.2m get a taste for holidays at home in 2026

UK Holidaymakers Embrace Culinary Staycations as Domestic Tourism Surges

Usagevpn.com – The traditional British summer holiday pattern has shifted dramatically, with a record number of residents opting to explore their own country rather than venture abroad. New analysis indicates that 22.5 million adults across the United Kingdom will spend their summer break on home soil, marking a substantial 40% jump compared to the previous year. This growing preference for domestic travel reflects broader changes in how British consumers approach leisure time, influenced by economic pressures and a renewed appreciation for local experiences.

Search engine data corroborates this trend, revealing that interest in domestic travel options has climbed significantly. Queries containing the phrase “UK holiday ideas” have risen by 50% compared to the same period last year, while searches for “UK holiday rental” properties have increased by 56%. These figures suggest that travellers are not only choosing to stay closer to home but are also actively planning and booking accommodations well in advance.

The Culinary Factor Driving Domestic Tourism

While concerns about airport congestion, flight disruptions, and escalating airfare prices have certainly influenced travel decisions, food tourism has emerged as a particularly powerful motivator. Nearly three-quarters of British respondents (71%) consider dining to be an essential component of their “foodie staycation” experience. Many are deliberately incorporating visits to restaurants, cafes, and food markets into their holiday itineraries, transforming what might have been a simple break into a gastronomic adventure.

The data reveals that food experiences now occupy a more prominent position in holiday planning than ever before. A substantial majority of Britons—58%—describe themselves as “foodies,” while 42% have explicitly stated that quality dining experiences carry greater weight in their travel decisions. This shift represents a cultural evolution, with food no longer viewed as merely sustenance but as a central pillar of leisure and discovery.

“Staycationing is no longer a consolation prize or ‘second best,'” explained Binay Agarwala, Managing Director for Rewards and Lending at Chase. “Rather, the UK is actively seeking out at-home holidays in order to try out the world-class dining scene this country has on offer.”

Willingness to Invest in Dining Experiences

The importance placed on food is clearly reflected in spending patterns. More than three-quarters of respondents (76%) indicate they are prepared to spend more on evening meals while enjoying a domestic holiday. This willingness increases notably among self-identified foodies, with 89% of this group ready to allocate additional funds for quality dining. The average British traveller considers a special “splurge” dinner to cost approximately £54.35 (€63.44) per person, though younger demographics show greater financial flexibility. Those aged between 25 and 34 are prepared to pay £66.67 (€77.82) per head for an exceptional meal out.

This investment extends beyond mere expenditure, encompassing time as well. Research shows that the typical staycationer dedicates 36 minutes to identifying the best culinary destinations—surpassing the 33 minutes spent researching transport options and the 26 minutes devoted to checking weather forecasts. Among dedicated food enthusiasts, this research time climbs to 45 minutes, representing a 25% increase over the average.

Economic and Cultural Implications

The surge in domestic tourism carries significant implications for regional economies and the hospitality sector. Areas that might have previously relied on international visitors are now benefiting from increased domestic demand, particularly in regions known for their culinary heritage. The North of England, Scotland, and Wales have all seen heightened interest as travellers seek authentic local experiences away from traditional tourist hotspots.

Economic pressures have played a crucial role in this transformation. Persistent inflation, coupled with rising fuel costs and increased insurance premiums for international travel, has made overseas holidays considerably more expensive. Many families have found that a staycation now offers comparable value to a foreign trip, particularly when accounting for additional costs such as car hire, parking, and airport transfers that often accompany international travel.

The cultural shift toward food-focused domestic holidays also reflects a broader trend of “rediscovering” Britain. With improved transport links and greater awareness of regional specialties, many travellers are experiencing their own country with fresh eyes. From Cornish cream teas to Scottish whisky trails, from London’s Michelin-starred restaurants to rural farm-to-table establishments, the variety of culinary experiences available domestically has never been greater.

Industry experts suggest this trend may prove sustainable beyond 2026. The combination of economic factors, environmental consciousness, and a genuine appreciation for local culture has created conditions favourable to continued growth in domestic tourism. As British travellers increasingly view their own country as a destination worthy of exploration, the hospitality sector is adapting to meet evolving expectations around quality, authenticity, and value.

The data ultimately paints a picture of a nation that has not merely retreated from international travel but has actively chosen to celebrate what lies within its own borders. With food at the heart of this movement, the Great British staycation has evolved from a practical alternative into a celebrated lifestyle choice, one that promises to reshape the country’s tourism landscape for years to come.