Britain's battered tourism industry faces a make-or-break summer with the weather key to a £8.3 billion boost. One in two are set to holiday at home this year with the next month do-or-die for a sector still reeling from record losses and a cost of living crisis.
And the good news is all signs point to a blisteringly hot fortnight with highs of 34C [93F] set to hit the UK with the arrival of a heatwave. Hot air from Central Europe and Northern Africa is set to head this way, bringing 14-days of scorching heat which will help boost the bottom line of staycation businesses. Britain boasts an alluring and diverse offering, from bustling cities, unspoilt coastal retreats, 15 national parks, 46 areas of outstanding natural beauty and 3 million hectares of woodland.
But, as is often the case here, much depends on what the weather does with most of those set to holiday at home planning to do at the last minute. Issuing an SOS, Visit Britain boss Patricia Yates said: “It is encouraging to see our latest survey indicating 29 million of us are keen to take a holiday in the UK to September. If realised, this would bring an estimated £8.
3 billion economic boost, supporting businesses and jobs across our nations and regions. “We can see that cost of living remains a concern. People are still keen to take their breaks, however, many are booking last minute, wanting to save on accommodation, activities, eating out and searching for good value options.
Many destinations have also told .