A potential ‘tourist tax’ proposed by the Labour Party could result in families facing higher costs for their staycations, raising concerns over its impact on small businesses such as guesthouses and B&Bs. This proposed “visitor levy” would allow regional mayors in England to impose charges on overnight stays, similar to practices in certain European countries. The exact mechanism of this levy, whether a per person fee or a percentage of the accommodation cost, is yet to be determined.
Critics argue that for a family of four on a two-week summer holiday, the additional charge could exceed £100. In a scenario where a family of six spends four nights in Blackpool for £49, the cost could almost double to £97. UKHospitality, representing 200 businesses, has expressed concerns to Chancellor Rachel Reeves about the potential adverse effects of this proposal.
In other news, Zoopla’s latest research reveals Sunderland as the most affordable city in England for single buyers, with average monthly mortgage payments amounting to 17% of the typical monthly salary. Meanwhile, Greene King has announced plans to open 30 new franchise pubs this year, expanding its operations into Scotland under the Belhaven brand and targeting future growth in Wales and the Southwest of England.
Additionally, data from UK Finance shows a decrease in mortgage arrears, with 80,490 homeowner mortgages in arrears in the last quarter of 2025. Despite the ongoing cost of living crisis, repossession rates have also declined. The FTSE 100 index has reached a new record high, demonstrating positive trends in the market. French restaurant chain Côte Brasserie has introduced a special half-term offer for kids, further enriching the dining options for families.
Moreover, Marks & Spencer has been recognized as Britain’s top in-store supermarket for customer satisfaction, outshining competitors in quality and service. The UK economy experienced modest growth in the final quarter of 2025, slightly below expert predictions, but showed overall improvement compared to the previous year. Chancellor Rachel Reeves emphasized the government’s economic strategy, highlighting achievements in interest rate cuts and economic growth within the G7.