New figures released for the first eleven months of last year, suggest that 2014 will be another record year for inbound tourism – beating VisitBritain’s original growth forecast.
During January to November 2014 there were 32.4 million visits to the UK, 7% more visits recorded than at the same juncture in 2013. These overseas visitors spent just over £20 billion, 3% more than in the eleven months to November in 2013.
VisitBritain set its 2015 forecast to suggest that there will be 35.1 million visits in 2015 generating visitor spending of spending of £22.2bn – an increase of 2.5% in volume and 4.5% in value. These spend figures would be a new record and break the £22 billion barrier for the very first time.
More international visitors are holidaying in Britain than ever before. Figures suggest that there have been 13 million holiday visits to the UK over the eleven months to November 2014, passing the previous annual holiday visit record of 12.7 million in 2013.
Patricia Yates, Director of Strategy and Communications at VisitBritain said:“Inbound tourism continues to be the fastest growing sector of the tourism industry and one of Britain’s most successful export industries, generating jobs and growth across Britain. We are delighted to have played our part in delivering this success.
“VisitBritain is focused on continuing to grow the value of inbound tourism in 2015. The launch of our Countryside is GREAT campaign in New York next week will showcase our beautiful landscapes and encourage visitors to explore different parts of Britain.”