Self-catering specialist holidaycottages.co.uk has seen a significant increase in demand for UK holidays, with bookings since the New Year up 60% compared with two years ago (bookings were unaffected by COVID at that time). Total bookings made to date for 2022 are up more than 80%. With the increased popularity of staycations over the past two years, many holidaymakers are booking earlier than ever to secure the properties and locations of their choice for 2022.

Marketing director at holidaycottages.co.uk, Matt Brayley, commented: “Last year, the typical post-Christmas holiday demand was significantly lower than normal; it was delayed until February 2021 due to the national lockdown. This year, post-holiday-period demand has bounced back really well.

“Demand across all periods has increased in 2022 versus both 2021 and 2020. Easter, the May half term and the summer holidays are proving as popular as ever, but the biggest increases compared to previous years are for winter breaks between now and Easter.

“We’re seeing strong growth across all our guest audiences, too - whether the occasion is a family holiday, a romantic break or a group getaway, spending time away with friends and family, and having something to look forward to, has never been so important to us all. This key trend looks set to continue throughout 2022.”