UK tourism is booming with a record high of 7.36 million visitors coming here in the first three months of 2016, according to new figures released by the Office of National Statistics (ONS).
Inbound tourism *estimated to contribute in excess of £26b a year to the UK economy) is on track to produce its seventh consecutive year of growth.
Last year saw record-breaking growth in both the number of overseas visitors and spend, clocking up 36.1 million visits and £22.1b in spending, up 5% and 1% respectively on 2014.
VisitBritain director Patricia Yates said the 2016 first quarter figures as a “tangible demonstration of the growing importance of inbound tourism to the UK economy.”
Tourism minister David Evennett commented: “Our tourism industry is booming as our world-class attractions, heritage and culture make Britain the first choice destination for many, with visits at an all-time high. Tourism is making a massive contribution to our economy and we want to keep up this momentum.”
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