Oh, we do want to be beside the seaside!
Plymouth is one of the most popular staycation destinations to visit on National Express services.
Coastal Getaways Are Top Choice As Brits Embrace Staycations.
New data from the UK’s largest coach operator has revealed a fascinating insight into post-covid travel behaviour.
National Express has seen such a strong demand for travel to UK coastal destinations over the summer period, they have made additions to their timetable only two weeks into restarting their services.
Chris Hardy, managing director of National Express UK Coach, explains:
“After a three month suspension our iconic white fleet was back on the road on 1 July, running at a reduced frequency with a focus on major towns and cities.
“Overall demand and bookings have been really positive but the requests for some destinations, either as a route or a new stop, was much higher than we would normally see at this time of year. Devon, Cornwall and Dorset in the South West dominated the list but other traditional seaside resorts including Brighton, Margate, Scarborough and Blackpool have also proved popular.
The most popular requested destinations to get away to by coach since lockdown:
- Bournemouth
- Blackpool
- Plymouth
- Brighton
- Newquay
- Poole
- Weston Supermare
- Scarborough
- Penzance
- Margate
- Truro
- St Austell
“We’re working hard to quickly add to our timetable so more people can enjoy the summer safely. From Monday 13 July, we’re introducing 12 new services and increasing the frequency of another 9 including:
- 501 London to Totnes via Taunton, Exeter & Torquay
- 504 London to Penzance via Plymouth, Newquay, Truro & Falmouth (plus the 406 overnight service)
- 035 London to Bournemouth
- 030 London to Portsmouth
“We’re closely monitoring what journeys customers are requesting and have added a short survey on our website to capture the information. We will use this to help make decisions as we continue to add new services and increase frequency on existing routes.”
National Express data also revealed:
- A switch from spontaneous travel to more planning ahead and purchasing in advance with less customers buying tickets on the day of travel
- An increased expectation of flexible booking
Chris Hardy added: “As restrictions are relaxed and the country starts to adjust to the ‘new normal’, these changes in behaviour aren’t surprising.
“Our significant covid-secure measures including reduced capacity, temperature screening and additional air conditioning filters, allow customers to travel in confidence. And we’ve also introduced the option to amend the date, time and journey origin and destination free of charge if circumstances change.
“It’s great to be back on the road and playing our part in getting the country safely moving again by providing a safe option for those who have no alternative to public transport.”