Lincolnshire tourism bosses say foreign holiday uncertainty offers chance to 'rediscover' this area

Tourism bosses say that 2021 could be a ‘bumper year’ for south Lincolnshire – with people looking to book breaks closer to home.

International holidays won’t be able to resume until May 17 at the earliest under the Government’s roadmap – and Prime Minister Boris Johnson is looking at a ‘traffic light system’ of rules for overseas destinations.

With testing and quarantines likely to be needed – and some people reluctant to risk a trip abroad just yet – there’s
expected to be a larger-than-normal demand for holidays closer to home.

Visit Lincoln chief executive Charlotte Goy feels there’s plenty for people to enjoy from a break in the county. She said: “There seems to be a real interest in people reconnecting with and exploring what’s on their doorstep as lockdown restrictions begin to ease.We’re seeing lots of people sharing ideas and things to do locally across social media, and the latest travel data shows a real sense of nostalgia from people wanting to revisiting places they feel familiar and comfortable with.”

While much of Lincolnshire’s tourism is centred on the coast and Lincoln, Charlotte believes 2021 could be big for attractions here.

She added: “Across south Lincolnshire I think we could see a bumper year for tourism, hospitality, leisure and retail businesses as people look forward to getting out and about whilst reconnecting with family and friends. Consumer sentiment for wellness breaks, activities that reconnect us with nature and outdoor activities will be in most demand I think; and the great thing about south Lincolnshire is the fantastic range of businesses who are ready and waiting to welcome guests back. I think 2021 really will be the ‘staycation’ year and a wonderful opportunity to rediscover Lincolnshire.”

One business offering wellness breaks is Laurel Park Campsite in Gedney Broadgate. As well as camping holidays, it is putting on yoga retreat weekends to help people get away from the stresses and strains of the last year.

It opens on April 29 and is fully booked for all bar one Bank Holiday – with other dates filling up.

Emma Bacon, who runs the site with husband Andy, said a closer-to-home holiday can bring many benefits. She said: “When you go somewhere more local you don’t have to use up your energy with travel – it makes everything that little bit more simple and means someone can relax quicker.”