Focus turns to the British seaside as the UK bakes, says Expedia

The UK heatwave has seen a surge in UK beach resort bookings according to online travel giant Expedia which found Bournemouth was the most popular

The UK heatwave has seen a surge in UK beach resort bookings according to online travel giant Expedia which found Bournemouth was the most popular.

Although Expedia believes there is still pent up demand for foreign holidays, the recent warm spell has put Brits off bookings and interest in domestic holidays has spiked.

Expedia data released to coincide with the release of its Flip Flop Report has shown a 119% increase in Bournemouth bookings.

Last week the Post Office reported that Bournemouth prices for family holidays were rising more quickly than many overseas resorts, up 12% on last summer.

Another south coast favourite, Eastbourne, has seen a 100% increase while Tourquay in Devon was up 81%, according to Expedia.

Andy Washington, managing director of Expedia UK, commented: “With the recent heat wave, what better way to take advantage of the sunshine than to head to one of our great British beaches.

“It’s quicker and easier than ever to book a last-minute break and with the Expedia app now you can book on the way there. There’s no excuse not to take some time for a short break during this great British summer. ”

Expedia expects the boom for the British seaside to peter out next week after the hot spell of weather ends this weekend.

The top 10 beach destinations booked by Brits in the last 28 days are:

1. Bournemouth
2. Cardiff
3. Brighton
4. Blackpool
5. Southampton and south coast region
6. Plymouth
7. St. Helier
8. Torquay
9. Eastbourne
10. Southport