How your next UK holiday could be affected by new ‘holiday tax’

WorldBusiness & Finance
12 Feb 2026 • 10:19 AM MYT
The Independent
The Independent

The world’s most free-thinking newspaper

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  • Leading UK accommodation firms are opposing government plans to introduce a new “holiday tax” on overnight stays in England.
  • Around 200 bosses, including those from Butlin’s, Hilton and Travelodge, have written to the Chancellor, warning the levy could increase holiday costs by over £100.
  • The industry argues that the proposed tax would severely impact families, jeopardise jobs and divert money from local businesses and communities.
  • The plans, confirmed by Rachel Reeves, would grant English regional mayors the power to implement visitor levies, similar to those in Scotland and Wales, to fund local infrastructure.
  • The government maintains that these powers will help mayors drive growth and investment, expecting any new charges to be modest and in line with other countries.

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