What's driving Brits to the country?

A new survey has revealed what British people love about the countryside - and it might not be what you're expecting.

Country clothing retailer A Hume asked 10,000 people what they love about the great British countryside.

For 52 per cent of overall respondents – and 77 per cent of 55-64 year old females – peace and quiet was top of the agenda.

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According to the study, idyllic scenery is high on the UK’s agenda, with 45 per cent of participants - and 60 per cent of 18-24 year olds - saying they love a countryside view.

A third of those surveyed said the chance to get up close with the wildlife is what draws them to the countryside.

This was also a popular answer with 25-34 year old male respondents, as well as women aged 45-54 - taking 45 per cent and 55 per cent of their votes respectively.

For one in four, the appeal of a country pub is what they love most about spending time in the sticks.

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20 per cent of Brits – and 28 per cent of those aged 55-64 – said a lack of traffic is their favourite thing about escaping urban areas.

Locally sourced country grub was also a popular answer - with 17 per cent of Brits voting with their stomachs.

Last year British staycations hit a seven-year high with over 19.7 million UK holidays booked in the first quarter of 2015.

Archie Hume, managing director at A Hume, said “The survey results have highlighted the UK’s love of the great outdoors, reminding us how fortunate we are to live and work in a location as beautiful as the Scottish Borders.

“The countryside, peace and quiet, and unrivalled views are a huge part of Britain’s appeal – and clearly the survey’s respondents agree.”

See the full survey results HERE

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