25M Brits Choose Staycations This Summer for Food Tourism

More than 25 million British adults are trading overseas trips for holidays at home this summer, and the reason might surprise you: the food is just too good to miss.

New research from Chase bank reveals that 25.2 million Brits will enjoy a staycation this summer, marking a 40% jump from last year. Search interest tells the same story, with "UK holiday ideas" up 50% and "UK holiday rental" up 56% year over year.

While airport stress and rising airfares play a role, the real star of this shift is Britain's culinary scene. Nearly three quarters of staycationers say dining is a key part of their holiday planning, with 58% proudly calling themselves "foodies."

The numbers show just how serious Brits are about eating well on holiday. Three quarters say they're willing to splurge on dinners during staycations, rising to nine in 10 among self-described foodies.

The average person considers £54 per head a "splurge" dinner, though younger travelers aged 25 to 34 are happy to pay up to £67. That's a sign of confidence in what UK restaurants have to offer.

Time investment matches the financial commitment. The typical staycationer spends 36 minutes researching the best food spots, more than they spend planning transport or checking weather forecasts. For dedicated foodies, that rises to 45 minutes.

The Ripple Effect

This shift means real wins for local economies across Britain. Restaurants, food markets, and regional culinary hotspots are seeing increased business from domestic travelers eager to explore their own backyard. Small towns with thriving food scenes are becoming destinations in their own right, creating jobs and supporting local producers.

"Staycationing is no longer a consolation prize or second best," said 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."

The trend reflects a broader appreciation for what's close to home, proving that adventure and amazing food don't always require a passport.