NEW research released by the National Trust has shown that more people are now opting for ‘daycations’ rather than a two-week holiday.

A national study shows a new trend for Brits taking multiple single day holidays throughout the year, as opposed to the traditional two-week break parents worked towards in days gone by.

Half of the people surveyed are not planning on taking a fortnights’ holiday at all this year and that the people in the East of England are most likely to take a daycation.

National Trust visitor experience director Tony Berry said: “The trust is perfectly placed to help the nation enjoy their days off.

“With places like Wimpole Estate, Hatfield Forest and Anglesey Abbey in the east, we have a huge choice of mental refreshment pit-stops to offer – you are never more than 40 minutes away from one of our beautiful places so there is no excuse.”

The daycation is strongly believed to be a cheaper alternative to the traditional holiday, with 46 per cent of people in the East of England citing the cost of a fortnight’s holiday as the main reason for not taking two weeks off work.

Daycations are also thought to be a lot more hassle free and as a result could actually be good for your health as it allows time to switch off from work.

Clinical psychologist Dr Cecilia d’Felice said: “We all know that holidays are good for us but did you know that even a day long mini-break reduces stress, improves wellbeing and enhances quality of life? Research shows that taking a daycation improves performance and safety at work, bonds family relationships and strengthens our vital social network.

“The benefits are numerous from fresh air detoxifying us to the aesthetics of nature, and the beautiful places the National Trust can offer undoubtedly help to refresh, both mentally and physically.”

Top daycation destinations in the East of England (2010 visitor numbers indicated):

Wimpole Estate & Home Farm, Cambridgeshire (257,010)

Anglesey Abbey, Cambridgeshire (244,188)

Ickworth House, Suffolk (167,857)

Blickling Hall, Norfolk (136,216)

Felbrigg Hall, Norfolk (94,675)