Southend has been ranked in the top ten most popular Airbnb UK destinations as holiday makers flock the seafront to enjoy staycations.

Hosts on Airbnb in Southend have made more than £60,000 hosting this July, and have seen a 26 per cent increase in first time bookers on Airbnb.

The holiday rental firm ranked the borough eighth for holiday makers heading to UK coasts.

Garry Lowen, owner of Gleneagles guest house in Clifftown Parade, Southend, said: “We use an apartment in the guesthouse as Airbnb accommodation and we are fully booked throughout August back to back.

“It’s because people want to look after themselves more than be in crowded places. It’s mainly people from London who say they are fed up with looking at the same streets and want a bit of fresh air.”

Amanda Stevens is also a Southend Airbnb host who has had success.

She added: “I moved from East London to Southend a few years ago and was surprised by its hidden beauty. I wanted people to know that there is much more to Southend than the fun fair and amusement arcades.

“There are trendy bars and restaurants, beautiful open spaces, stunning Victorian property, all within a stone’s throw of the seafront. A staycation is the perfect way to discover how much more Southend has to offer. Come, stay and venture out.”

Adventure Island owner Philip Miller, said: “This is just the kind of boost the town needs right now with the town far from out of the woods from the after effects of the “bug”. Confidence is low amongst business folk we need all the encouragement we can get.”

Kevin Robinson, councillor responsible for tourism, said, “This is excellent news. Southend has always been popular with daytrippers, but this clearly shows we are becoming a popular staycation location too. With seven miles of beaches and family friendly seaside attractions nestled alongside our parks, museums, galleries, bars and restaurants, there is something for everyone.”