For while the Iran conflict has sent the price of fuel skywards even before they hit the road for the long weekend, those opting to stay at popular resorts and coastal villages are finding cheap holidays seem to have well and truly had their chips.

For the nation's staple fish treat by the harbour at Wells now costs from £12 - £18 for a large portion, as rocketing cod and potato costs get passed on to consumers.

Accommodation prices have risen at everything from swish hotels to humble B&Bs, while holiday lets and even campsites have also followed the upward trend.

Councils have hiked parking charges, while attractions have upped admission prices leaving sunseekers caught in a perfect storm.

Dutch visitor Anna Falk was on her first trip to Wells with her partner Olaf Brauckman and their two young children.

"It's expensive compared to home, we're from the Netherlands," she said. "Parking fees are quite high as well as entry fees for the larger parks.

"We've been to Pensthorpe, Brancaster Beach. It's a beautiful coast."

Jamie Edwards and Patrycja Gajda from Spalding with two-year-old son Cody (Image: Chris Bishop)

Day-trippers Jamie Edwards and Patrycja Gajda from Spalding were crabbing on the quayside with two-year-old son Cody.

"Everything's pricey now," said Mr Edwards, as their bumper catch squirmed in its bucket. "It's not just round here, it's everywhere, any hotspot you go to is going to be expensive.

"Everything's going up, petrol's £1.60 a litre, that makes a big difference."

Another day visitor from Norfolk, who gave her name as Anna, said: "It is expensive but it's worth it absolutely. It's a beautiful spot.

"People have to make a living, there's no reason why they shouldn't. We........

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