What’s driving Brits to the countryside?

August 26, 2016

There’s nothing like exploring Britain with the National Trust. (Clumber Park, Nottinghamshire, National Trust images)

New survey reveals Brits are most in favour of the peace and quiet rural living offers

45% of respondents head to the country in search of unrivaled views

A third of participants say a love of wildlife attracts them to the countryside

A new survey has revealed what Brits love about the countryside – and it might not be what you’re expecting.

Country clothing retailer A Hume asked 10,000 people what they love about the great British countryside.

For 52% of overall respondents – and 77% of 55-64 year old females – peace and quiet was top of the agenda.

According to the study, idyllic scenery is high on the UK’s agenda, with 45% of participants – and 60% of 18-24 year olds – saying they love a countryside view.

A third of those surveyed said the chance to get up close with the wildlife is what draws them to the countryside.

This was also a popular answer with 25-34 year old male respondents, as well as women aged 45-54 – taking 45% and 55% of their votes respectively.

For 1 in 4, the appeal of a country pub is what they love most about spending time in the sticks.

20% of Brits – and 28% of those aged 55-64 – said a lack of traffic is their favourite thing about escaping urban areas.

Locally sourced country grub was also a popular answer – with 17% of Brits voting with their stomachs.

Last year British staycations hit a seven-year high with over 19.7 million UK holidays booked in the first quarter of 2015.

A report by the Daily Mail cited countryside festivals and abo

ve average weather as the main reason for the surge.

Archie Hume, Managing Director at A Hume, said “The survey results have highlighted the UK’s love of the great outdoors, reminding us how fortunate we are to live and work in a location as beautiful as the Scottish Borders. The countryside, peace and quiet, and unrivaled views are a huge part of Britain’s appeal – and clearly the survey’s respondents agree.”