Over a third of Britons will go on holiday only in the UK this summer, according to a survey published yesterday.

Some 35 per cent of people, up 10 per cent on last year, plan to take a so-called staycation, with Cornwall, the Lake District and Devon being the most popular destinations.

Hotel chain Travelodge, who conducted the survey, said one third will be taking a seaside holiday in the UK, one in four heading to a city and 22 per cent choosing a rural setting for their break. The reasons given for taking a staycation by the 5,000 adults polled were unsurprising, with 38 per cent saying it was cheaper than going abroad and one in three wanting to avoid flying.

Respondents said they spent an average of £422.69 on a seven-day UK holiday, which Travelodge said would result in an estimated £7.2 billion boost to the British tourism industry.

A company spokesman said: “It has been a tough year for many British adults with rising household costs and government cutbacks, but our research shows that cash strapped Britons are clinging onto their annual holiday in order to add some cheer into their lives.