Last year looks set to have been a record one for inbound tourism to the UK following the release of figures covering the first 11 months of 2014.
Government statistics showed that overseas residents made just under 32.4 million visits to the UK in the period January-November 2014 – a seven per cent rise on the same period in 2013. Their spending during trips in the UK in that period increased three per cent to just over £20 billion.
The figures from the Office for National Statistics also revealed UK residents made 57.72 million trips abroad in the first 11 months of 2014 – a four per cent rise on January-November 2013.UK residents spent £34.35 billion while on visits overseas in the first 11 months of 2014 – a four per cent increase on the same period in 2013.
VisitBritain strategy and communications director Patricia Yates said: “Inbound tourism continues to be the fastest growing sector of the tourism industry - one of Britain’s most successful export industries that delivers jobs and growth across Britain.
“We are delighted to have played our part in delivering this success.”
VisitBritain is forecasting that overseas residents will make 35.1 million visits to the UK in 2015.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here