A growing number of Brits are planning to take time out from their busy lives to recharge their spiritual batteries in 2025. According to travel experts, 39% of UK holidaymakers are planning a “spiritual” getaway this year, with many opting for modern-day pilgrimages, wellness retreats, or embracing “silent travel” by disconnecting from social media.
Lily Smith, a leading travel expert from Monasteries.com, highlighted that wellness and spiritual holidays are set to be one of the fastest-growing trends in 2025. Smith noted, “59% of Brits intend to incorporate some form of wellness into their holidays, with activities like meditation, quiet time, and walking, alongside a focus on taking a break from the constant notifications of our digital devices.”
The travel association ABTA suggests that the primary reason for choosing wellness holidays is relaxation. In fact, 60% of people plan to partake in wellness activities, with younger holidaymakers particularly prioritising mental wellbeing. The survey found that 46% of younger adults are focused on mental health, compared to 35% of the general population.
Experts predict that the global wellness retreat market, currently valued at £290 billion, will continue to grow as demand for stress-relief options and digital detoxes rises. The average Brit spends 2.3 hours a day on social media, and health professionals have raised concerns that this constant connectivity can contribute to feelings of anxiety, depression, and loneliness.
While the notion of spiritual retreats and social media detoxes is a modern trend, the concept of spiritual journeys dates back centuries. Pilgrimages, once an essential part of religious life, are experiencing a resurgence. For example, the Camino de Santiago de Compostela in Spain, a famous pilgrimage to the shrine of the Apostle James, saw a record 442,073 visitors last year.
For those who are unable to embark on lengthy pilgrimages, there are plenty of shorter, local options across the UK. Historic pilgrimage routes, such as the Pilgrims’ Way from Winchester to Canterbury, are increasingly popular. Walkers along these trails can visit ancient spiritual sites while experiencing the tranquil beauty of the British countryside.
For a more immersive spiritual experience, travellers can stay at monasteries throughout the UK. In Salisbury, for example, pilgrims walking the Pilgrims’ Way can book accommodation at Sarum College, located within the close of Salisbury Cathedral, with rooms starting at £60 per night.
For those seeking a truly unique spiritual retreat, the world-renowned St Catherine’s Monastery at Mount Sinai in Egypt offers a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Known as the oldest continuously inhabited Christian monastery, St Catherine’s is located near the legendary Biblical sites of the Burning Bush and the Well of Jethro. Visitors can stay in the Guest House of St Catherine’s Monastery, where they will have access to guided tours of the holy sites on Mount Sinai and Mount Moses, along with theological workshops and meals included.
For those interested in exploring monastery retreats, Monasteries.com provides a platform to book stays at abbeys, convents, and monasteries across the globe. The website also offers a comprehensive guide to spiritual retreats for those looking to reconnect with nature and themselves.
As more Brits prioritise their spiritual health in 2025, wellness holidays and pilgrimages are set to become an increasingly important part of the travel landscape.