Number of people eating out on Christmas Day set to treble

The number of Brits planning to eat out on Christmas Day looks set to more than treble this year, according to a survey of AA members.

The poll of 20,000 people found that 10% plan to enjoy their Christmas dinner in a pub or restaurant, compared to 3% last year.

The increase is particularly prevalent among older age groups with 60% of those planning to eat out aged over 55.

Dining out is most popular in London and the south east where 25% said they would be eating out, followed by 20% in the Midlands and 15% in the south west.

Simon Numphud, managing director of AA Hotel and Hospitality Services, said: “The trend towards dining out on Christmas Day shows no sign of slowing, and it’s wonderful to hear that our members are experiencing such a busy festive season. Customers looking for a quality dining experience on Christmas Day can check which awards they have won â€" such as our annual AA Hospitality Awards â€" and if they are accredited by an organisation such as the AA.”

Andrew Jenkins, general manager of the Moorland Garden Hotel, Yelverton, commented: “We have always been fully booked for lunch on Christmas Day, and this pattern will continue this year. We are constantly looking to provide the best for our diners over the busy Christmas period, and we hope to keep developing our festive offerings in future.”

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