Food really is the spice of life as British holidaymakers are choosing their next break using their stomach. Food markets and restaurants were voted the top two factors when considering a UK town or city break, closely followed by historical attractions, festivals and museums.
cottages4you, carried out the research in response to the growing trend for holidaying at home last year. Despite the resurgence of British coastal breaks in 2009, bookings to towns and cities are also on the increase, with seven night breaks making up 56 per cent of city holidays this year.
The top five reasons for taking a town or city break are:
Markets and shopping (82 per cent)
Restaurants (80 per cent )
Historical attractions (76 per cent)
Festivals and event (73 per cent )
Museums and exhibitions (67 per cent )
The findings highlight the variety of activities demanded by holidaymakers when planning a UK break. Following a love of fine food, appreciating the nation’s historical links and visiting cultural attractions are seen as key drivers in choosing a location.
Focusing on towns and cities outside of the capital, the survey found that the top five places for city and town breaks are:
1. York (47 per cent)
2. Edinburgh (37 per cent)
3. Brighton (31 per cent)
4. Bath (29 per cent )
5. Stratford-upon-Avon (27 per cent )
Unsurprisingly, York and Edinburgh - cities which combine history, culture and great restaurants - come in the top two positions. Edinburgh was also cited as the home of the best restaurants.
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