As Brits rush to make the most of the added bank holiday this Easter, Avis is encouraging holidaymakers to take inspiration from the Royal Wedding and stay on home soil this April.

Recent research from the company suggests that up to a third of British holidaymakers are planning to travel in the UK during 2011 and with patriotic fervour in the air, Easter may well see Brits opting to rediscover the nation’s beauty spots and history rather than travelling abroad.

Nick Mountfield, Head of Marketing at Avis UK, comments: “Easter is always a very popular time of year to go away, but with the Royal Wedding happening this year, more people are choosing to holiday here instead. The extra bank holidays mean that by booking three days off work, Britons can actually have a whole week’s break and we’re already seeing more demand as people rush to firm up their travel plans.

“The UK has thousands of fantastic holiday destinations that are ideal for days out, weekends away and longer holidays, so we’re encouraging holidaymakers to make the most of their time off and explore the UK.”

Offering convenience and flexibility, car hire can be the most cost-effective way to explore the British Isles, both for those who don’t own a car, and for those looking to experience something a bit different.

From hiring a sports car for the weekend, to choosing a larger people carrier for the whole family, Avis offers a wide selection of cars and services to make your time away as enjoyable as possible.
To help holidaymakers make the most of their time in the UK this Easter, Avis has put together these Royal recommendations:

Windsor Castle, Windsor
The oldest and largest occupied castle in the world, Windsor Castle in an official residence of The Queen. With Eton College just a short walk from the castle, Windsor provides many opportunities to learn about British history and tradition.

Kew Palace, Surrey
Located with Kew Gardens, Kew Palace is a 17th century palace in a beautiful setting. Kew Gardens is home to a whole host of attractions which will provide a full day out seeped in 250 years of history.

Sandringham House, Norfolk
Sandringham House is open to visitors, as is the museum, church and 60 acres of gardens on the Sandringham estate.

Balmoral Castle, Aberdeenshire
Balmoral Castle in Scotland is the private residence of The Queen during the summer months. During the spring, the grounds, gardens and exhibitions are open to the public on a daily basis.

Hampton Court Palace, Surrey
Best-known as the home of King Henry VIII, this 16th century palace contains a traditional Tudor kitchen and the gardens are also home to the world famous hedge maze.

With competitive car hire rates from just £16 per day, Avis also offers a range of services to help make travelling easier including Avis Preferred. By signing up as a frequent traveller to Avis Preferred, Avis will promise to give you your keys in just three minutes of you arriving at the rental station or you will receive £20, helping to get you on your way in no time.
For more recommendations on where to go in the UK, customers can visit the Avis Facebook page and share ideas with other holidaymakers at: www.facebook.com/avisuk.
Nick continues: “We’re definitely seeing a demand for booking early this Easter, so I’d urge customers to think ahead and book now in order to guarantee their vehicle of choice this April.”