Families living in Chelmsford are spending an average of £3,123.74 to keep their children entertained during the summer holidays, a survey conducted by Travelodge has confirmed.

Families living in Cardiff are the nation’s big summer holiday spenders allocating an average spend of £3,528.36 across the six-weeks.

A more detailed breakdown of the research shows that Chelmsford parents spend £2367 on holidays and short breaks, £148 on childcare, £336 on days out (average of six) and £271 on toys, games and sweets.

This year, 63% of parents have booked a summer UK holiday for ten days to help keep their children entertained during the holidays.

Over half of British families (53%) are flocking to the seaside for their annual break, destinations include, Cornwall, Devon, Blackpool and Skegness.

In addition, households are having an average of six family days out during the school break this summer, a typical day out will cost families in Chelmsford £56.09.

The most popular outings include the seaside, visiting a museum and going to a theme park.

Travelodge Spokeswoman, Shakila Ahmed said: “Keeping your children entertained during the six-week summer school holidays is no easy task and can be expensive."

"Parents nowadays are looking for added value in how to keep their children occupied in the holidays.

"A growing trend that we are experiencing is that more parents are booking a multi-location short break and combining a coastal and city or rural break as one trip. This type of holiday is cost effective and within one trip you get to see more of Great Britain and the children get two holidays for the price of one.”