‘Bed and Brexit’ effect helps late summer domestic bookings surge

Eviivo finds forward bookings at south coast destinations strong until November Continue reading →

A surge in late UK bookings is being seen in the period between summer and autumn, according to data gathered from several thousand B&Bs by online booking firm eviivo.

Forward bookings at south coast destinations are strong between September and November, with Penzance up 32%, Torquay 29% and Bournemouth 23%.

Seaside forward bookings for the period are up 7.5%, while overall
B&B forward bookings for the September to November period are up 18% year-on-year.

Properties that classify themselves as ‘family friendly’ with eviivo, report forward bookings for the period up 61%.

Tom Messett, director at eviivo, said: “We may be seeing a fundamental shift in holiday patterns, with a ‘sortumn break’ in the UK becoming an established event in UK family life.

“Part of the surge is the ‘Bed and Brexit’ effect that we reported on last quarter, with holidaymakers choosing to avoid punishing exchange rates and make the most of the British Isles.

“But there’s also a rediscovery of the joys of the short British break, something that many parents will remember nostalgically from their own childhoods and are now in turn introducing their children to.”

He added: “The reliable bump up in temperature in late September and early October is attracting more and more families to Britain’s bed and breakfasts.

“The low, golden light, balmy not-too-hot temperatures, relatively warm sea and comparative peace and quiet are an attractive combination for holidaymakers.”