Online tool helps pinpoint quieter holiday destinations

Research has revealed that next week, the third week in August is set to see the greatest number of holidaymakers (motorhomers, caravanners and campers, as well as those staying in holiday caravans) heading to campsites. So, Decathlon, teaming up with the Ordnance Survey, has created an online tool to help you choose the less popular areas.

The Beat the Crowds website takes into account who you are travelling with and what kind of holiday you want from a coastal trip to one near attractions.

The research included a survey of over 1,000 adults on where they were planning to go on holiday in the UK this year. Over 45% of people revealed they had booked or would be booking a camping trip this summer. If you want to steer clear of the crowds, you need to avoid the southwest, with indications that over a quarter of British campers etc, plan to head to the beaches of Devon and Cornwall. Wales was also high on the list with 23% of people questioned saying that's their destination. Scotland is up there too at 20%.

The research shows that campsites near beaches (52%), the countryside (49%) and lakes (40%) are proving to be the most popular this year. 
While those located near hiking and swimming spots nearby towns and cities (24%), mountains (28%) and tourist attractions (29%) are the best bet for those looking for a more socially-distanced camping experience.

Quieter areas include Northern Ireland, the West Midlands, the East Midlands, the northeast and the southeast.

Chris Allen, Mountain Sports Market Leader at Decathlon UK, comments, “One of the best things about camping is getting out into the peace and quiet of nature, but understandably, the UK’s campsites are proving extremely popular amongst staycationers this year, so we wanted to produce a tool which will allow those wanting to go camping to identify areas where they will be able to camp in quieter surroundings and know they can do so while not having to worry about crowds which might inhibit their abilities to maintain social distancing."

Nick Giles, Managing Director Ordnance Survey Consumer, comments, “We live in a country packed with incredible places to explore, from hiking trails, cycling paths and mountain biking routes which we can use to get away from it all. Our advice would be to look at the areas surrounding where you’re staying, plan ahead, and you can find some amazing places and routes which you can follow to get away from it all.”