Overview
- A coordinated UKHospitality letter signed by more than 200 businesses, including Butlin’s, Hilton, Travelodge, Whitbread, IHG, Haven, Parkdean and Merlin, argues a levy would hit households, jobs and local spending.
- The autumn budget confirmed powers for regional mayors to introduce charges on hotels, B&Bs, holiday lets and Airbnbs, with a government consultation open until 18 February.
- Industry estimates suggest a £2 per person nightly fee or a 5% charge would add roughly £100–£112 to a two‑week family break.
- Ministers say any charge should be modest and set locally, and some mayors, including in London and Liverpool, have indicated they intend to adopt levies once empowered.
- Comparable measures are advancing elsewhere in the UK, with Edinburgh due to introduce a 5% levy from July 2026 and Wales permitting up to £1.30 per person per night.