We’ve been extremely busy all summer here at The Guesthouse East – I’ve been putting it down to my porridge – but it seems we’re part of a much bigger trend according to a new study highlighted on BBC 1 (The One Show) and the Eastbourne Herald amongst others.

EASTBOURNE is the second fastest growing seaside resort – and the sixth most popular in the UK.

The number of staycations – Brits holidaying at home – is going through the roof, and the Sunshine Coast is one of the main beneficiaries.

Eastbourne is second in terms of growth in tourism-related businesses, the number of people employed in the holiday economy and the number of visitors to local attractions compared to the year before, rising by 11% year-on-year, much higher than other Sussex resorts like Brighton, Hastings and Worthing.

Almost five million people flock to Eastbourne every year, swelling the town’s coffers by an estimated £250 million every 12 months.

Many of those visitors are foreign families and students, but, according to new figures, an increasing number are English natives shunning the Spanish sun in favour of a short spell in the sunniest part of UK.

This upturn is indicative of a national trend toward seaside chic breaks – with many bed and breakfasts transformed into trendy boutique hotels and attracting more affluent tourists to the coast. Figures show those holidaying in the UK spending 23 per cent more during their stay than last year and that in total resorts has seen 21 per cent more UK visitors staying overnight rather than just enjoying a day trip.

However, there are some traditions that show no signs of abating. Six in ten holidaymakers quizzed as part of the survey said they planned to eat fish and chips during their break and four in 10 said they were looking forward to a stroll on the pier.

In fact, one in three holidaymakers say the traditional attractions at seaside towns was one of the a reason for deciding against travelling overseas.

Just in case you need another reason to visit (or just perhaps to run off those chips) we’ve teamed up with The Running Inn to offer another Running Weekend Course.

As well as boutique accommodation here at The Guesthouse East (check out our suites!) you’ll receive a fitness test, nutrition discussion, pilates for runners as well as personal trainer-supported runs on the South Downs.

There always a lovely, supportive atmosphere and it’s amazing what you can achieve after a bowlful of my legendary porridge!   Call 01323 722774 for more details.

Carl

Apparently UK tourism is set to be one of the few sectors to benefit from the recession, with 70% of people ready to book a holiday in the UK this year.

We’ve all been there – fractious children and frustrated parents stranded in airport lounges, disillusioned with the ‘glamour’ of air travel and, when coupled with a weak pound, it perhaps shouldn’t be surprising to hear that 39% are now considering to spend their main 2010 holiday here in the UK, up 10% on last year.  

The Guesthouse East, the boutique but family friendly hotel in Eastbourne, should be well placed since it is families who are likely to be at the heart of the ‘staycation’ boom. It is those with children who are more likely to target self catering accommodation and coastal resorts. Just as well, then, that The Guesthouse East is just 50m from the sea front in Eastbourne and that each suite has a separate kitchen with self-catering facilities and large bedroom, often with an extra futon or sofa bed for children. And when mum doesn’t fancy spending any more time in the kitchen bed and breakfast is always available.

Check availability and book or give us a ring 01323 722774 to find out more.

Flicking through the Sunday Times this morning has confirmed why Eastbourne’s remained busy despite the recession – an article highlights that millions of Britons have shunned foreign holidays this year for a ‘staycation summer’. A YouGov poll also suggests that it’ll remain busy for a while yet, with 54% planning to take their main holiday in the UK next year as well. Only 11% said they will head overseas next year instead.
The good news is that half the respondents found Britain offered friendly service. ‘The more people experience holidays in the UK, the more people seem to like them’ said Peter Kellner, president of YouGov.

There’s also the ‘microclimate-effect ‘- Michael fish, the former BBC weatherman and resident of Eastbourne, points out that Eastbourne’s ‘year-round sunshine’ and temperate climate is due to the fact it is sheltered by the 600ft cliffs of Beachy Head.