Domestic travellers, known as ‘staycationers’, are helping travel operators generate profits despite the economic situation.

Cumbria Tourism reported bookings up by 20 percent compared with the same time last year, which meant an extra £346,000 was generated for the region’s economy.

The increased interest in Cumbria for domestic travellers was due to the low value of the pound against the euro as well as many travellers choosing shorter and more cost effective holidays due to the recession.

The lakes area also had some celebrity endorsement last week when Gordon Brown went there.

Chief executive of Cumbria Tourism, Ian Stephens, said it was vital for holiday companies to continue to promote their businesses to remain competitive.

The Office Of National Statistics revealed last month a 17 percent slump in trips abroad with many holidaymakers opting to holiday domestically.

Thanks to England’s North East for quotes.  For more information visit their website.