13 Nov 2025
The Cost of a Washed-Out Holiday: Brits Spend Billions on Rainy Holiday Activities
Tags: winter sun escapes
New research has revealed that bad weather could be costing on average £218 per person, as holidaymakers turn to alternative activities when the rain, wind and cold set in.
The study, commissioned by City of Dreams Mediterranean, a luxurious five-star resort in Cyprus, polled 2000 UK adults and found that the average additional spend during poor weather could be as much as £6.59 billion.
One in ten admitted to spending from £251 up to £500, while 7% say they've racked up between £501 and £1,000 in extra costs on entertainment, dining out, shopping and indoor leisure activities on holiday.
When the weather turns gloomy, cultural attractions such as museums, galleries and aquariums top the list of rainy-day destinations, with 44% of Brits who've had bad weather on holiday seeking shelter there. Eating out comes a close second (39%), followed by a spot of shopping (37%).
And true to British fashion, many choose to make the best of it with a drink in hand, with around a third (31%) heading to the pub when the heavens open.
Regionally Londoners spend the most - an average of £310.40 in additional spend, while those in Yorkshire and the Humber spend the least with the average adult spending around £155 more when the rain pours.
The research also revealed that nearly half (48%) of adults said that bad weather had ruined a holiday, while 20% admitted it caused arguments and 31% had to cut short their trip due to the elements.
Weather forecasts provide little consolation, with 51% of holidaymakers saying they've packed for a holiday according to the forecast only for it to be wrong, and 17% reporting that the most frustrating part of a rainy holiday was seeing that the weather was better at home.
Speaking about the findings, Grant Johnson, Property General Manager of City of Dreams Mediterranean, said:
""It is so disappointing when a holiday is spoiled by bad weather, and even worse, our research shows it can cause friction, arguments and leave people seriously out of pocket. At this time of year, bad weather can strike anywhere, not just in the UK, so why gamble on the rain? Our Sunshine Guarantee offer is a commitment to ensuring our guests have the best holiday, in the best possible weather, or they'll get a free stay on their return visit."
""It is so disappointing when a holiday is spoiled by bad weather, and even worse, our research shows it can cause friction, arguments and leave people seriously out of pocket. At this time of year, bad weather can strike anywhere, not just in the UK, so why gamble on the rain? Our Sunshine Guarantee offer is a commitment to ensuring our guests have the best holiday, in the best possible weather, or they'll get a free stay on their return visit."
Emily Rose, a UK holidaymaker added: "It's so much easier to find things to do when it's sunny and I find we spend a lot less because we're just at the beach or by the pool.
"Yes, we've definitely had arguments because of the rain on holiday," she added, "mainly due to being cooped up inside. It's happened to me overseas too. We visited Cuba and were hit by a hurricane on the first night. I've never seen rain like it. The irony was that the weather was better back in England!”
Sunshine Guaranteed at City of Dreams, Mediterranean
With almost 340 days of sunshine a year, Cyprus is a leading winter sun destination. City of Dreams Mediterranean is putting its weather where its mouth is, offering one complimentary night for each day the sun doesn't shine.
Guests who book directly with the Sunshine Guarantee offer can also enjoy 10% off for a minimum of three nights and receive a €100 complimentary voucher to use at any of the resort's restaurants, bars, spa, or casino. This offer applies to bookings made until 30 November 2025, for stays from 16 October to 18 December 2025.
Sunshine Guarantee Definition:
- “Sunshine” is defined as a day with at least 70% direct sunlight between 09:00 and 17:00.
- Measurement is based on proprietary data from AccuWeather.com, with a weather calendar updated weekly.
T&Cs Apply
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About City of Dreams Mediterranean
City of Dreams Mediterranean is an award-winning resort in Limassol, Cyprus that marks a new era of premium comfort, elegance and unrivalled leisure facilities for UK holidaymakers. Just over four hours away from the UK, City of Dreams combines five-star hospitality and premium facilities in a relaxed, luxurious setting, with year-round Mediterranean sunshine an added bonus.
Europe's first integrated resort (IR), City of Dreams Mediterranean is a premium property that includes a hotel with a casino, entertainment shows, luxury retail, fine dining and convention facilities.
From designer shopping and gorgeous relaxation spaces at the Renu spa and fitness centre, to fine dining at the resort's indulgent Amber Dragon, Anaïs and Prime Steakhouse restaurants; it's a weekend or weeklong winter escape that feels a world away from cold, grey winter skies.
Survey by OnePoll
The results were obtained by an survey of 2000 UK Adults who holiday was conducted by market research company OnePoll, in accordance with the Market Research Society's code of conduct. Data was collected between 22/09/2025 and 25/09/2025. An online survey of 2000 UK Adults (nationally representative of age, gender and region) was also conducted by market research company OnePoll, in accordance with the Market Research Society's code of conduct. Data was collected between 16/10/2025 and 20/10/2025. All participants are double-opted in to take part in research and are paid an amount depending on the length and complexity of the survey. This survey was overseen and edited by the OnePoll research team. OnePoll are MRS Company Partners, corporate membership of ESOMAR and Members of the British Polling Council.
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