More ways to support Back British Holidays
After you've signed the petition, help to support British tourism businesses and organisations with the actions listed below – you could create some fantastic memories along the way!
Our guide to UK tourism businesses and organisations
The UK’s domestic tourism industry is more than a significant contributor to the economy – it is a cornerstone of national culture, community, and heritage. This sector, spanning local businesses to national agencies, creates cherished experiences, sustains livelihoods, and promotes pride in the UK’s natural and cultural treasures. Yet, recent data from Back British Holidays highlights worrying trends: significant declines in visitor numbers, revenue, and job security, which, if unaddressed, could harm the nation’s tourism fabric irreparably.
Sign our petition to Back British Holidays
The best possible action you can take to support British holidays is to sign our petition to the Government. We're calling for greater financial support for small businesses and greater incentives for holidaymakers to choose a British destination, helping to safeguard this cornerstone of our cultural identity!
Why back British holidays?
The domestic tourism sector contributes over £31 billion annually through overnight stays and £72 billion when indirect effects are included. Beyond economics, it directly supports 300,000 jobs and indirectly supports 2.88 million jobs across the UK.
However, between 2019 and 2023, domestic holidays decreased by over 38.5 million, with projections indicating a further loss of 13.5 million trips in the next four years. The countryside, seaside and even city desinations have faced significant declines, threatening both local economies and national pride.
To reverse this trend, Back British Holidays urges individuals, businesses and policymakers to collectively act, ensuring the sector thrives for generations to come.
Here, we've outlined some of the essential businesses and organisations in this industry, along with some actions that you can take to help safeguard their future.
Regional and national tourism boards
Tourism boards serve as pivotal players in promoting local and regional destinations. These organisations offer marketing support, stakeholder collaboration and resources to businesses. Individuals can contribute by engaging with local Destination Management Organisations (DMOs) and sharing news and insights with platforms like VisitBritain. You can also share your reviews online, using platforms such as Trustpilot and Tripadvisor.
Accommodation and hospitality
Hotels, B&Bs and holiday parks are the lifeblood of UK tourism. Every local stay supports these businesses, which directly contributes to regional economic vibrancy. Choosing to explore diverse options – from city hotels to rural cottages – encourages growth and job creation. For inspiration, check out our monthly list of accommodation for hire!
Heritage, culture and attractions
From historic landmarks to festivals, the UK’s attractions are unrivalled. Visiting local attractions sustains their maintenance and promotes the preservation of the UK’s rich history. With each region offering its own unique culture and must-see destinations, navigating this wealth of options can be challenging. For a helpful guide, check out our various travel guides.
Sustainability and conservation
Eco-friendly tourism aligns with both environmental goals and economic benefits. Supporting businesses that adopt sustainable practices – such as using renewable energy or preserving local wildlife – ensures the sector’s longevity. To achieve our future environmental goals, it is essential to support small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) on this journey. Our petition advocates for a clear path that allows tourism and hospitality SMEs to embark on their sustainability efforts, without being left behind.
Food and drink tourism
Local pubs, breweries, and food festivals not only highlight regional flavours, but also contribute significantly to local economies. Dining locally and embracing food and drink tourism helps strengthen the connection between agriculture and tourism. You can enhance this experience by shopping at local markets to prepare your own meals. Our top tips for campsite cooking is a fantastic starting point for what you can do.
Accessible and inclusive tourism
Making tourism inclusive benefits everyone. Supporting businesses that prioritise accessibility ensures that all visitors, regardless of ability, can enjoy the UK’s offerings. Providers like Tourism for All offer customisable travel plans, allowing you to create the perfect UK trip tailored to your needs.
Education and skills development
Investing in training programmes for tourism and hospitality ensures a skilled workforce, which, in turn, directly supports British tourism. Advocating for education initiatives in tourism-related fields creates pathways for career growth and industry resilience. You can support these programmes by signing our petition, which calls for increased funding and resources. This will ensure that future preparations and research are prioritised by the Government.
Collaborative action for a thriving tourism sector
Back British Holidays emphasises the collective responsibility of businesses, individuals, and policymakers. Immediate actions can include:
- Promoting domestic tourism campaigns to spotlight the UK’s attractions
- Collaborating with local governments to develop tourism zones and expand infrastructure
- Advocating for financial support and subsidies to sustain businesses
- Sharing our campaign, via social media, or writing to your local MP/councillor
A vision for the future
Supporting UK tourism means more than bolstering the economy. It’s about creating lifelong memories, preserving cultural heritage, and building long-lasting communities.
By backing Back British Holidays and signing our petition, individuals and organisations can play a vital role in ensuring the UK remains a top-tier destination for generations to come.