The doorstep day trip: the UK is opting for shorter leisure drives and days out

Written By Lawrence Allan

Our survey found that UK drivers are enjoying more day trips closer to home
The South West of England crowned Britain’s favourite area
One in five said they were prepared to venture up to 30 miles for day out

It seems like everyone is on a staycation in Cornwall or the Lake District at the moment, and for good reason. UK drivers are enjoying more day trips closer to home as a result of the COVID-19 outbreak, according to our new research.

The survey of 2000 UK motorists saw The South West of England crowned Britain’s favourite area to visit on a day trip. So, if you want to see Stonehenge or the Eden Project, you might want to plan ahead!

Scotland and the South East took joint second place, while the North East received the least amount of vote. Of those surveyed, more than half (53 per cent) said they’re driving shorter distances on a day out - with one in four (23 per cent) limiting their journey to between 10 and 20 miles from home.

One in five (19 per cent) said they were prepared to venture between 21-30 miles, while a further 23 per cent would tackle distances of between 31-50 miles. Only 16 per cent said they would travel up to 100 miles - which would be from Leicester to Manchester, for example.

The research also investigated who our ideal day trip driving companions are - with our partners emerging as the overwhelming choice of a third of the population (38 per cent). Our pets took second place with five per cent, while renowned petrolhead Jeremy Clarkson was third with three per cent.

The study comes as we launched our feel-good day trip finder tool to help the nation uncover the best destinations the country has to offer. The interactive map allows users to search for attractions and places of interest that are perfect to drive to for a day out. We’ve got something for everyone; from family destinations to thrill-seekers!

heycar CEO Mat Moakes says: “The day trip is a great British tradition. Given the current circumstances, it’s understandable that people are a little more cautious about how far they’re prepared to venture.”

“But it’s clear the nation still remains committed to using their cars to explore the delights on their doorstep and further afield.”

“And with our interactive feel-good day trip finder we’re thrilled to be able to help day-trippers discover ever-more fun and interesting destinations all around the UK.”