We are the national tourism agency, a non-departmental public body funded by the Department for Digital, Culture, Media & Sport (DCMS). We were established by the Development of Tourism Act 1969 and we undertake Britain-wide and England-specific activity respectively under the brands “VisitBritain” and “VisitEngland”. This is in accordance with the 2015 Spending Review which brought VisitBritain and VisitEngland structurally closer together, with accountability for delivery of England and Britain into the remit of a single body under the BTA.
About us
Supporting England’s tourism industry, driving inbound visitor spend, providing expert advice to industry and to Government. We are the national tourism agency, a non-departmental public body funded by the Department for Digital, Culture, Media & Sport (DCMS). We were established by the Development of Tourism Act 1969 and we undertake Britain-wide and England-specific activity respectively under the brands “VisitBritain” and “VisitEngland”. This is in accordance with the 2015 Spending Review which brought VisitBritain and VisitEngland structurally closer together, with accountability for delivery of England and Britain into the remit of a single body under the BTA....Read more
Visit Britain - About Us
Supporting England’s tourism industry, driving inbound visitor spend, providing expert advice to industry and to Government.
Company Name : VisitBritain
News & announcements
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28 Jan 26
NEWS
VisitBritain showcasing UK regions to global travel tradeVisitBritain is set to host more than 70 international buyers on educational trips across England, ...Read moreVisitBritain showcasing UK regions to global travel trade - News & announcementsVisitBritain is set to host more than 70 international buyers on educational trips across England, Scotland and Wales over the next two weeks. The agency is seeking to build on the estimated £34.6 billion economic impact inbound tourism generated in 2025. Global travel trade from 11 international markets will take part in tailored visits between 30 January and 5 February to explore tourism highlights, from Dorset to the Scottish Borders and South Wales. Some of these in-person experiences of Britain’s newest attractions, sights and tours will be promoted for the first time. International delegates from the UK’s top three markets – the US, France and Germany – will attend, together with travel buyers from Australia, Brazil, Canada, China, the Gulf Co-operation Council (GCC) countries, Italy, the Netherlands and Spain. Educational visits will feature tourism products and the latest innovations from across the nations and regions, as well as film and television experiences to celebrate VisitBritain’s global campaign ‘Starring GREAT Britain’. The campaign is estimated to have generated £217 million in additional spending by international visitors from its launch in January 2025 to last June. VisitBritain’s in-country teams have worked in partnership with England’s Local Visitor Economy Partnerships (LVEPs) and Destination Development Partnerships (DDPs), VisitScotland and Visit Wales to develop four-to-seven-day itineraries for each inbound market. “Our in-country teams have worked with our nations and regions to produce itineraries, which highlight that Britain is full of fresh, exciting experiences to come and enjoy right now,” said VisitBritain CEO Patricia Yates. Before heading off on educational tours, international buyers will attend the Britain & Ireland Marketplace (30 January, InterContinental London – The O2). The day-long event, organised by ETOA, brings together national and regional destinations and products across the UK and Ireland to promote the best of British and Irish tourism. Following the London event, international buyers will visit: Australia: Wales, Chester, Cheshire, Manchester Brazil: Birmingham, West Midlands, Wiltshire, Bath, Windsor Canada: North East to include Newcastle, Durham & Yorkshire China: Bath, Bristol, Manchester Gateway (North West, Yorkshire) France: East/West Midlands (Peak District, Nottingham, Stratford upon Avon) Germany: North West (Liverpool, Lancashire, Manchester and Peak District) Gulf Co-operation Council (GCC) countries: Oxfordshire, Cotswolds, Stratford upon Avon Italy: South Wales, Bristol Netherlands: Wiltshire, Somerset, Dorset, Devon Spain: Northumberland, Scottish Borders USA: Bath, Bristol, Cotswolds, Oxfordshire -
20 Jan 26
Partner News
New report from VisitBritain/VisitEngland shows tourism worth £147 billion to UK economyTourism’s importance to the British economy is highlighted in major new research from national ...Read moreNew report from VisitBritain/VisitEngland shows tourism worth £147 billion to UK economy - News & announcementsTourism’s importance to the British economy is highlighted in major new research from national tourism agency VisitBritain/VisitEngland, demonstrating the industry’s significant economic contribution to local communities nationwide and its potential for growth. The report 'Economic Value of Tourism in the United Kingdom' shows tourism is worth £147 billion annually to the UK, about 5 percent of the national economy, when including both direct and supply chain impacts. Tourism is larger than the insurance and pensions sectors put together and employs more people than those and financial services combined. The study found that tourism generated £52 billion in tax revenues for the UK Government in 2024, more than half the wages bill of the NHS in England*. Tourism demonstrates its importance as a major employer, supporting nearly one in every 15 jobs across the UK, about 2.4 million jobs. The industry’s value extends beyond major cities accounting for at least 5% of jobs in every region and nation of Britain. It also creates first jobs and opportunities for young people and upskills younger workers at the beginning of their careers. The industry is predicted to create an additional 175,000 jobs in the UK by 2030. The value of total tourism activity in the UK is expected to reach £161 billion by 2030 in 2024 prices**, growth of 9.3% when adjusted for inflation and ahead of the UK economy overall at 8.8%. Inbound tourism is forecast to drive much of this, with growth in value of 32%, £9.4 billion, between 2024 and 2030. Tourism Minister, Stephanie Peacock, said: “From rich culture and historical landmarks to beautiful landscapes and coastal communities, the UK is one of the best and most visited holiday destinations in the world. Without the incredible workforce behind the tourism industry, it wouldn’t be the powerhouse that it is today. “The economic contribution of the tourism sector is clear, and the government is ambitious about ensuring it can continue to grow. That is why we are committed to publishing a joint growth plan with the sector in the spring.” VisitBritain/VisitEngland CEO Patricia Yates said: “This research underscores tourism's importance as one of the UK's most valuable industries, driving economic growth for every nation and region and supporting our high streets, hospitality businesses, cultural institutions and our communities. The billions in tax revenues generated by tourism also shows how spending by domestic and international visitors contributes to services that benefit everyone. “There are however challenges. The decline of domestic holidays has hit coastal destinations particularly hard as consumers wrestle with cost-of-living pressures and businesses with the higher cost of doing business. Longer-term international forecasts meanwhile show the UK is starting to lose its competitive position globally and inbound visits remain London-centric. “As a critical driver of future growth for the UK, our priority is to work with industry and Government to realise tourism’s huge potential to bring social and economic benefits for every nation and region, creating jobs, supporting businesses and delivering prosperity for local communities.” The report also shows the vital role of domestic tourism in supporting rural and coastal destinations and the importance of getting more Brits to holiday at home. Eighty-four per cent of domestic overnight tourism spending is in destinations outside of London. Converting just 10% of what Brits spend on travelling abroad to holidaying at home could deliver an £8 billion boost annually to the economy. VisitEngland is set to launch a pilot domestic marketing campaign to drive breaks to the North West’s coastal destinations in the build up to summer this year. The report also examines the UK’s future inbound visitor source markets and trends. It shows the continued importance of the USA, forecast to be worth £7.6 billion to the UK economy in 2026 and accounting for more than £1 in every £5 of inbound visitor spending. Tourism to the UK from emerging markets including China and India is predicted to grow rapidly, by 12% annually combined by 2030. Looking to the Gulf, the UK already captures almost a third, 30%, of all trips to Western Europe from the high spending Qatar, Saudi Arabia and United Arab Emirates markets. Findings from the Economic Value of Tourism in the United Kingdom report are being shared with the UK Government to inform policymaking and to track tourism’s development over time, in line with VisitBritain/VisitEngland’s statutory role to provide expert advice and insights to industry and government. -
18 Dec 25
Partner News
11.6 million Brits plan a domestic holiday in the UK during festive season, bringing £3.3 billion boost to economySurvey shows that visiting friends and family and going out for a Christmas meal ...Read more11.6 million Brits plan a domestic holiday in the UK during festive season, bringing £3.3 billion boost to economy - News & announcementsSurvey shows that visiting friends and family and going out for a Christmas meal are most popular festive activities
VisitEngland’s Christmas Trip Tracker Survey released today, 18 December, shows that 11.6 million Brits are planning an overnight holiday trip in the UK during the Christmas and New Year period, bringing an estimated £3.3 billion boost to the economy. The figures are up by nearly a third (32%) on last year’s results, when 8.8 million had planned a domestic break. Among those definitely planning an overnight holiday trip in England, nearly half (49%) are planning on taking two or more trips during the festive season. The survey also shows that 7% of Brits have yet to decide if they will take an overnight trip in England during this time. The top reasons are ‘waiting to see if there are any deals / special offers’ followed by ‘waiting to see what the weather is like.’ VisitEngland CEO Patricia Yates said: “It is encouraging to see many of us are planning a short break with friends and family during the festive season, boosting the economy through tourism. From buzzing Christmas markets to festive light trails, from winter walks with a cosy pub lunch to seasonal favourites such as the free Blackpool Illuminations, there is an experience and attraction for everyone. “We know from destinations across England that 2025 has been a very mixed picture as consumers wrestle with cost-of-living uncertainties and businesses with the higher cost of trading. Our latest consumer sentiment research shows that many people are booking last minute, wanting to save on accommodation, activities and seeking good value options. So please do go out and explore the amazing destinations and attractions here on our doorstep this festive season. Tourism businesses will be very pleased to see you and I am sure you will have a fantastic time.” Popular seasonal activities Brits plan to do during the festive break, after visiting friends and family, include going out for a meal (41%), visiting a Christmas market (40%) and shopping at the post-Christmas sales (33%). More than one-in-five (21%) will participate in outdoor activities such as walking or cycling. Of those surveyed, younger people are more likely to spend money at seasonal shopping events with 42% of 16-to-24-year-olds planning to shop at post-Christmas sales, while half (50%) are set to visit a Christmas market. The full VisitEngland Christmas Trip Tracker survey can be accessed here: https://www.visitbritain.org/bank-holiday-trip-tracker For ideas on what to do this festive season across England, from light trails and ice-skating to Christmas concerts and markets, please visit: VisitEngland’s New 2025 Christmas Experiences, Enchanting Lights Trails & Festive Set-Jetting | VisitBritain.org -
20 Nov 25
Partner News
Best of destination Britain on show to top travel buyers as VisitBritain leads China trade missionVisitBritain is gearing up to host its ‘Destination Britain China and Northeast Asia’ (DBCNEA) ...Read moreBest of destination Britain on show to top travel buyers as VisitBritain leads China trade mission - News & announcementsVisitBritain is gearing up to host its ‘Destination Britain China and Northeast Asia’ (DBCNEA) trade mission to China to grow inbound tourism and drive economic growth with British tourism suppliers set to show top buyers why Britain is the destination to visit now. Taking place from 26 to 28 November in Chengdu, China, the three-day trade event sees dozens of tourism industry suppliers and destinations, many of whom are attending the event for the first time, meet to do business with about 90 top buyers from China, Hong Kong (SAR), Japan and South Korea, with trade media also in attendance. More than 2,000 pre-scheduled one-to-one business meetings are taking place, alongside networking events and seminars from destinations, showcasing the latest products and experiences on offer. International buyers will have the opportunity to learn about Britain’s premier export-ready tourism products and its competitive visitor offer, broadening travel itineraries to drive visitor spending across the nations and regions. VisitBritain CEO Patricia Yates, who is leading the trade mission to China, said: “This major trade mission brings our very important and highly valuable China and Northeast Asia markets together with British suppliers to do business, shining the spotlight on the fantastic products and experiences on offer and making sure those are sold in international markets. “While we have seen a relatively slower recovery and build back from China and Northeast Asia compared to the overall long-haul average, the longer-term trajectory is encouraging, underscoring the importance of this event with our trade missions a proven catalyst for business. “Building product and destination knowledge also broadens travel itineraries so visitors explore more through our regional gateways, spreading the benefits of visitor spending across our nations and regions. “The size of our delegation shows the enthusiasm from tourism suppliers to do business across these important markets and to hear first-hand from buyers on the motivations driving outbound travel as well as trends in digital tools and booking platforms. We are looking forward to showcasing our warm welcome as well as all the great reasons to book a trip right now.” Tourism’s importance in building cultural connections and positioning the UK as a welcoming, vibrant, culturally diverse destination that people want to visit, is also in the spotlight. Suppliers joining the trade mission include hotels, visitor attractions, transport providers, retailers, tour and sightseeing operators spanning the length-and-breadth of the nations and regions. Destinations including Visit Lake District, Cumbria, Marketing Manchester, Visit Peak District & Derbyshire, Visit Shakespeare’s England, Visit York and Visit West are attending, highlighting their respective products and experiences. VisitScotland and Tourism Ireland are also joining the trade mission. VisitBritain’s teams in market will also be running seminars and networking events to support tourism suppliers to engage and do business with trade from across China, Hong Kong (SAR), Japan and South Korea, providing insights on market and consumer trends. The trade mission comes as VisitBritain continues to roll out its global ‘Starring GREAT Britain’ screen tourism campaign. The campaign is harnessing the powerful draw of film and tv locations to inspire more visitors to choose Britain, discover more and stay longer, driving visitor spending into local destinations. VisitBritain’s research shows that more than 9-out-of-10 potential visitors to the UK are keen to visit locations used in filming and seen-on-screen during their trip. Spending by visitors from China, Japan and South Korea, when combined, is forecast to be worth £1.4 billion this year to the UK economy, with an average visitor spend from these markets of £1,528 per visit, more than double the all-market average spend of £818. Looking ahead to 2026, 667,000 visits are forecast from China to the UK, up 28% on the estimate for this year, worth £1.3 billion to our economy. Visits from Japan are forecast to reach almost 300,000 in 2026, up 23% on this year’s estimate while 219,000 visits from South Korea are expected, up 21%. As well as its DBCNEA trade mission, VisitBritain continues to work closely with industry and partners in market to promote the outstanding tourism offer and experiences that visitors can only have in Britain. -
18 Nov 25
NEWS
VisitEngland’s Visitor Attraction winners announcedVisitEngland named the winners of its Visitor Attraction Accolades for 2024-2025. Awards went to 78 ...Read moreVisitEngland’s Visitor Attraction winners announced - News & announcementsVisitEngland named the winners of its Visitor Attraction Accolades for 2024-2025. Awards went to 78 English attractions covering various elements: ‘Welcome’; ‘Best Told Story’; ‘Hidden Gem’; ‘Quality Food and Drink’ and ‘Gold’. The accolades were awarded based on scores that attractions obtained following their annual VisitEngland Visitor Attraction Quality Scheme assessment. VisitEngland Director Andrew Stokes said: “These accolades put England’s outstanding attractions in the spotlight. They acknowledge the people who give the warmest welcomes, provide the most mouth-watering food and tell the stories that delight visitors.” “The excellence on show underlines the quality within the industry, ensuring fantastic visitor experiences.” VisitEngland’s Visitor Attraction Accolades, now in their 11th year, are awarded to participants of the VisitEngland Visitor Attraction Quality Scheme across a range of tourism attractions, These span historic houses, gardens, country parks and farm attractions to galleries, museums, churches and cathedrals. Participating attractions are supported by experienced independent assessors who deliver advice and guidance on improving and promoting the quality, accessibility and sustainability of their facility. Winning attractions can display the Accolade logo at their attraction, online and in their marketing materials. The VisitEngland Visitor Attraction Accolades 2024-2025 were presented to winners at a lunch at the British Motor Museum in Warwickshire last week. The full list of VisitEngland Visitor Attraction Accolades for 2024-2025: VisitEngland Quality Assessment Services | VisitBritain.org -
23 Oct 25
Partner News
VisitBritain/VisitEngland activity boosts economy by £562 million as agency sets out plans to drive growthInternational visitors spent an additional £562 million across Britain as a result of activity ...Read moreVisitBritain/VisitEngland activity boosts economy by £562 million as agency sets out plans to drive growth - News & announcementsInternational visitors spent an additional £562 million across Britain as a result of activity by national tourism agency VisitBritain/VisitEngland, latest figures show. Results also show that 60% of this estimated additional spend, £336 million, was in destinations outside of London. The agency reported the figures, which cover its activity for the 2024-2025 financial year, as it was set to bring industry leaders together at its annual review event ‘Behind the scenes: driving regional growth through the visitor economy’ on 21 October, outlining its priorities and activities to grow the visitor economy and support the UK Government’s ambition of 50 million international visitors annually by 2030. Separately the agency also shared results for the initial phase of its ongoing ‘Starring GREAT Britain’ global campaign, which is using the powerful draw of screen tourism to inspire visits to the nations and regions today. The campaign is estimated to have generated £217 million* in additional spending by international visitors from its launch in January to June this year. It means that for every pound invested in the campaign, visitors spent an additional £20 in Britain. Launched in collaboration with international film and TV studios the campaign also promotes Britain’s creative industries. Speaking ahead of the review, British Tourist Authority Chairman Nick de Bois said: “These figures represent not just numbers on a balance sheet, but the millions of additional pounds generated by VisitBritain’s activity that flows into our high streets, our hospitality businesses, our cultural institutions and our communities across every nation and region of Britain. “Tourism is one of our greatest industries that creates opportunities for all, from the small and medium sized businesses that make up the backbone of our world-class industry to our destinations and attractions that draw visitors from across the globe. “By working in partnership with industry and the UK Government we can realise tourism’s huge potential to create immediate and sustained economic growth, delivering jobs and prosperity to communities across Britain.” VisitBritain’s annual review comes as its just published inbound tourism forecast estimates £34.6 billion would be spent by international visitors in the UK this year, up 6% on 2024. Looking at visits to the UK, 44.3 million visits are forecast, up 4% on last year. Mr de Bois said that while it was good to see the overall estimated growth this year on 2024, longer term forecasts are showing that the UK is starting to lose its competitive position internationally as a visitor destination, both globally and against some major western European rivals. “Tourism to the UK is already generating growth in value of 6% year-on-year. VisitBritain’s analysis shows that if tourism to the UK was growing at the same pace as current forecasts for Western Europe, the industry would be worth an additional £4.4 billion per year by 2030 to the economy. But tourism is extremely competitive, and visitors have a lot of choice. Like every export industry we need to be telling our story about why people should come to Britain not one day, but today. “Tourism also frames how people around the world see Britain, building positive perceptions. Those who have visited are 16% more likely to invest in the UK’s businesses, products and services,” he said. To convert the interest to visit Britain into bookings, VisitBritain had been with working with partners across its major inbound markets including Australia, France, Germany and the United States (US), generating £12 million of additional cash and marketing-in-kind activity in the last financial year. Its work with global travel trade had ensured British products were sold internationally, hosting major trade missions for markets showing growth including Australia, India and the US, connecting hundreds of British businesses with international buyers and generating almost £100 million in sales. Of product sold, 64% of itineraries and tours developed had featured destinations outside of London. VisitBritain’s support had also seen the business events industry win, and scale, international conferences and exhibitions. Looking longer term its business events growth programme had achieved, from 2018 to 2024, £60.6 million in direct economic return to the UK economy with 91 business events supported across 18 cities throughout England, Scotland and Wales. Domestically the priority for VisitEngland had been supporting the Local Visitor Economy Partnership (LVEP) programme, simplifying a regional structure for English tourism. A cohort of LVEPs have been created focused on robust destination management, regenerative visitor growth, integrated planning to benefit communities and economies and working with Combined Authorities on local growth plans. Destination Development Partnerships (DDPs) were also part of the restructuring. They are made up of a number of LVEPs, setting regional priorities and receiving government funding. Two DDP pilots have been underway in the North-East of England and the West Midlands to demonstrate the power of this approach with tourism considered strategically in local planning, transport development and investment decisions. “As decision making is increasingly devolved, it has been fantastic to also see LVEPs engaging with Mayoral authorities, ensuring tourism is recognised as a sector that delivers on regional economic growth and promotes pride-in-place. “However, despite the success of the DDP pilots and the hard work of LVEPs to gain accreditation, I am disappointed that there is still no long-term funding commitment from government. Afterall the structures of tourism have responded and it would be timely now for government to do so too, to secure the future of destination management across England,” said Mr de Bois. Domestic overnight trips in England currently being down 8% year-on-year also demonstrated the ongoing operational challenges and cost of living impacts faced by the industry. VisitEngland was continuing its targeted support to small businesses with new guidance and tools, from regenerative tourism to accessibility, on its Business Advice Hub. Free trade initiatives including the new ‘Taking England’s Wine to the World’ programme was supporting businesses to reach new customers and grow their revenue. Tourism is one of Britain’s largest and most valuable industries, its third largest service export and a major part of British trade, supporting hundreds of thousands of small businesses and employing millions of people across the nations and regions. -
10 Sep 25
Partner News
Winners of VisitEngland’s 2025 ROSE Award announcedVisitEngland has today Wednesday 10 September revealed this year’s winners of its Accommodation Quality ...Read moreWinners of VisitEngland’s 2025 ROSE Award announced - News & announcementsVisitEngland has today Wednesday 10 September revealed this year’s winners of its Accommodation Quality Scheme 2025 ROSE Awards. The ROSE (Recognition Of Service Excellence) Awards showcase the accommodation providers who deliver the warmest of welcomes and where the staff provide incredible experiences for their customers irrespective of star rating, style or type of accommodation. VisitEngland Director Andrew Stokes said: "The ROSE Awards honour England's outstanding accommodation providers who combine excellent hospitality with exceptional service to create lasting memories for their guests. These establishments anchor great holidays, encouraging visitors to discover more locally whilst generating vital tourism income for communities. From boutique glamping to premier B&Bs, characterful pubs to family holiday parks, and working farms to secluded retreats, England's diverse accommodation sector offers something special for every taste and budget." The ROSE Award winners were nominated by VisitEngland’s Quality Scheme Assessors and selected from Assessor comments and online feedback from overseas and domestic visitors. Recipients of the awards include all types of accommodation from B&Bs/guesthouses, self-catering and hotels to parks, glamping sites and hostels and cover a range of ratings from three to five stars, as well as accredited properties. ROSE Award recipients are all part of the VisitEngland Quality Schemes and demonstrate a commitment to delivering innovation and excellent service. The VisitEngland ROSE Awards 2025, now in their ninth year, were presented at an event on Wednesday 10 September at The Post Barn, Old Oxford Road, Newbury, Berkshire. Tourism is one of England’s largest and most valuable industries, delivering economic growth right across the country. See the full list of ROSE Award 2025 winners go to: VisitEngland Quality Assessment Services | VisitBritain.org -
03 Sep 25
NEWS
UK destinations showcased by VisitBritain to US, Canada and Brazil buyersVisitBritain is gearing up to host its ‘Destination Britain Americas’ trade mission in the Americas. ...Read moreUK destinations showcased by VisitBritain to US, Canada and Brazil buyers - News & announcementsVisitBritain is gearing up to host its ‘Destination Britain Americas’ trade mission in the Americas. It will present British tourism suppliers to top buyers from across the USA, Canada and Brazil. Taking place from 10 to 14 September in Riviera Maya, Mexico, the three-day trade event sees 53 British tourism industry suppliers meet with 47 top buyers. International buyers will have the opportunity to learn about Britain's destinations, and experiences from Bath, Birmingham, Bristol, the Cotswolds, County Durham, Cumbria, Derbyshire, Manchester, Liverpool, Oxfordshire, the Peak District and the West Midlands alongside Scotland and Wales. Activities include one-to-one meetings, networking events and seminars to help drive visitor spending into regional economies. VisitBritain CEO Patricia Yates, leading the trade mission, said: "This major trade mission brings our incredibly important Brazil, Canada and USA markets together with British suppliers to do business and drive economic growth.” “We are shining the spotlight on the products and experiences on offer across Britain, making sure those are sold internationally, boosting Britain’s economy.” "Building product and destination knowledge broadens travel itineraries, so visitors can explore more of Britain spreading the economic benefits of visitor spending across our nations and regions.” British suppliers joining the trade mission include hotels, visitor attractions, transport providers, retailers, tour and sightseeing operators. The trade mission comes as VisitBritain continues to roll out its international ‘Starring GREAT Britain’ campaign. Launched earlier this year, the campaign is using the draw of film and TV locations and places seen-on-screen to inspire visitors to discover more of Britain. Destination Britain Americas is a cornerstone of VisitBritain’s programme of international sales missions. Inbound tourism is worth an estimated £34.9 billion to the economy in 2025. -
20 Aug 25
Partner News
£4.1 billion boost to the economy estimated as 11.2 million Brits planning a holiday at home this August bank holidayVisitEngland’s August bank holiday trip tracker survey, published today, shows that 11.2 million Brits ...Read more£4.1 billion boost to the economy estimated as 11.2 million Brits planning a holiday at home this August bank holiday - News & announcementsVisitEngland’s August bank holiday trip tracker survey, published today, shows that 11.2 million Brits are definitely planning an overnight holiday trip in the UK this bank holiday weekend, bringing an estimated £4.1 billion boost to the economy. The figures are just up on last year, when 11 million Brits planned to take an overnight trip in the UK during the August bank holiday weekend. Looking back at 2023 the figure was 9.7 million. This would give a much needed boost to the industry which has seen year-to-date domestic overnight trips decrease by 5% from 32.6 million in 2024 to 31.1 million in 2025 at the end of May. Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy said: "From Cornwall and Cumbria to The Gower and Glasgow, Britain is blessed with so many fantastic destinations. "The tourism industry is a vital part of the economy and it is great to see that this year, even more people are planning to make the most of the August bank holiday weekend by heading off on an overnight trip. This will not only provide millions with fantastic days out, but will also help create jobs and drive economic growth across the country." VisitEngland Chief Executive Patricia Yates said: “It is very encouraging to see many of us are planning a domestic break for the August bank holiday weekend. From our globally renowned museums and art galleries to our buzzing food and music scene, from our great pubs to our beautiful coast and countryside, there is a destination to suit all tastes and budgets. “Businesses will be looking to the long weekend for a critical late summer lift after what has been a very mixed year for many destinations. We can also see from our latest consumer research that the cost of living remains a concern. Brits are still keen to take their breaks however many are booking last minute, making it difficult for businesses to plan in advance, and wanting to save on accommodation, activities, eating out and searching for good value options. So do please get out and support our amazing destinations, first class attractions and local events this long weekend and beyond.” The survey also showed that a further 7.3 million people were undecided about whether to take an overnight holiday trip in England during the bank holiday weekend. The top reasons are ‘waiting to see if I can afford it’, ‘waiting to see what the weather will be like’ and ‘waiting to see if there are any deals / special offers’. Tourism is one of England’s largest and most valuable industries, delivering economic growth right across the country. The full VisitEngland August bank Holiday trip tracker survey can be accessed here: Domestic Tourism Bank Holiday Trips Data | VisitBritain.org. For ideas on what’s on this August Bank Holiday across England, from food festivals to live music by the sea, please visit: VisitEngland’s 2025 Summertime News | VisitBritain.org. Notes to editors:- VisitEngland commissions online omnibus surveys, ‘trip trackers’, periodically in order to collect data on the number of GB consumers who plan to take an overnight trip at key times throughout the year.
- In this August edition, the survey was carried out on an online omnibus by Kantar TNS, with a representative sample of 1,231 adults aged 16 and over in Great Britain.
- The fieldwork for the survey took place between 12th and 14th August 2025.
- Trip volumes are based on an estimated adult (16+) population of 56 million in GB for 2025 (Office for National Statistics).
- Economic impact is based on the average domestic overnight holiday spend of £369 per trip (Great Britain Tourism Survey, 2024 annual figures).
- For the full report, visit VisitEngland’s bank holiday trip tracker page.
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06 Jun 25
Partner News
VisitEngland Awards for Excellence 2025 winners announcedVisitEngland has revealed the winners of its VisitEngland Awards for Excellence 2025, highlighting the ...Read moreVisitEngland Awards for Excellence 2025 winners announced - News & announcementsVisitEngland has revealed the winners of its VisitEngland Awards for Excellence 2025, highlighting the very best of England’s outstanding tourism industry. Gold, Silver and Bronze winners have been announced across 17 categories ranging from ‘New Tourism Business of the Year’ and ‘Pub of the Year’ to ‘Business Events Venue of the Year’ and ‘Camping, Glamping and Holiday Park of the Year’. The awards were presented at an evening ceremony on 4 June hosted by VisitEngland Advisory Board Chairman Lady Victoria Borwick at the Brighton Dome Corn Exchange. The prestigious VisitEngland Awards for Excellence have been running for more than 30 years. This year’s winners were selected from hundreds of tourism businesses across England including hotels, self-catering accommodation, B&Bs, glamping operators, attractions, restaurants, pubs and museums, forwarded to the national competition via local and regional competitions across England. VisitEngland Director Andrew Stokes said: “These annual Awards are an opportunity to applaud and showcase the businesses and individuals who provide outstanding customer service and continuously improve their products and offer for visitors. “From a captivating science museum in Merseyside to a fully accessible hotel in Bournemouth, from cow cuddling on a farm in Yorkshire to fine dining in Lancashire, this year’s winners show just how varied and diverse our industry is and what makes it great. “Competition this year was fierce, reflecting the excellence evident across each category and I congratulate all the 2025 winners, and especially those who won Gold, an achievement cementing their place as the standard bearers of our world-class tourism industry.” In addition to the 16 core category award winners, three special awards were also presented this year including an ‘Outstanding Contribution to Tourism Award,’ a ‘Travel Content Award’ and a ‘Tourism Superstar Award’. The Tourism Superstar Award 2025 went to port volunteers the Southampton Saints, a team of 13 welcome ambassadors who greet visitors at the city’s port. The Outstanding Contribution to Tourism Award went to ‘Railway 200’, the 200th anniversary celebration of the first passenger railway, in recognition of its valuable role in highlighting the importance of our railway heritage and rail travel to domestic and inbound tourism in England. The Travel Content Award, which recognises the media’s important contribution in championing domestic tourism, was won by Jane Anderson with her Isle of Wight wellness story for The i Paper entitled ‘The UK’s sunniest island vying to become a sauna isle’. Tourism is one of England’s largest and most valuable industries, generating about £76 billion annually for the economy in domestic visitor spending. See below full list of VisitEngland Awards for Excellence 2025 winners: Accessible and Inclusive Tourism Award : GOLD - Eureka! Science + Discovery, Merseyside Silver - Marsham Court Hotel, Dorset Bronze - The Courtyard, Herefordshire B&B and Guest House of the Year: GOLD - Sunnyside Guest House Southport, Merseyside Silver - Abbots Grange Manor House, Worcestershire Bronze - Boscastle House, Cornwall Business Events Venue of the Year: GOLD - Keele University Events and Conferencing, Staffordshire Silver - Jodrell Bank Centre for Engagement, Cheshire Bronze - The Glasshouse International Centre for Music, Tyne & Wear Camping, Glamping and Holiday Park of the Year: GOLD - Polmanter Touring Park, Cornwall Silver - Mendip Basecamp, Somerset Bronze - Hippersons Boatyard, Suffolk Ethical, Responsible and Sustainable Tourism Award sponsored by Sykes Holiday Cottages: GOLD - Sunnyside Guest House Southport, Merseyside Silver - The Quiet Site, Cumbria Bronze - Battlesteads, Northumberland Experience of the Year: GOLD - Cow Cuddling, Dumble Farm, East Riding of Yorkshire Silver - The Wizard Walk of York, North Yorkshire Bronze - Introduction to Sailing, Mylor Sailing School, Cornwall International Tourism Award: GOLD - The Beatles Story, Merseyside Silver - World of Wedgwood, Staffordshire Bronze - St Mary's Guildhall, West Midlands Large Hotel of the Year sponsored by Ecclesiastical: GOLD - Mallory Court Country House Hotel & Spa, Warwickshire Silver - Sandburn Hall, North Yorkshire Bronze - Titanic Hotel Liverpool, Merseyside Large Visitor Attraction of the Year sponsored by Raw Charging Network Ltd: GOLD - Black Country Living Museum, West Midlands Silver - National Space Centre, Leicestershire Bronze - Liverpool Football Club Tours & Experiences, Merseyside New Tourism Business of the Year: GOLD - Ad Gefrin Anglo-Saxon Museum & Whisky Distillery, Northumberland Silver - Eureka! Science + Discovery, Merseyside Bronze - Eight at Gazegill by Doug Crampton, Lancashire Pub of the Year: GOLD - The Farmers Arms, Devon Silver - The Blind Bull, Derbyshire Bronze - The Griffin Inn, Leicestershire Self Catering Accommodation of the Year sponsored by Sykes Holiday Cottages: GOLD - Treworgey Cottages, Cornwall Silver - Trevase Cottages, Herefordshire Bronze - Wolf Wood Treehouses, Devon Small Hotel of the Year: GOLD - Summer Lodge Country House Hotel, Dorset Silver - Seaham Hall, County Durham Bronze - The Montagu Arms Hotel, Hampshire Small Visitor Attraction of the Year: GOLD - No.1 Royal Crescent, Bath Silver - King Richard III Visitor Centre, Leicestershire Bronze - Sculpture by the Lakes, Dorset Taste of England Award: GOLD - The Cavendish Hotel, Derbyshire Silver - Searcys at The Pump Room, Bath Bronze - The Riverside at Aymestrey, Herefordshire Unsung Hero Award: GOLD - Hannah Clapp, Muncaster Castle, Cumbria Silver - Caitlin Brown, The Escape Key, Tyne & Wear Bronze - Andrew Hurley, Avoncroft Museum, Worcestershire Travel Content Award: GOLD - Jane Anderson, The i Paper – ‘The UK’s sunniest island vying to become a ‘sauna isle' Silver - Phoebe Smith, The Guardian – ‘Saving the seas one dive at a time in Northumberland' Bronze - Hannah Summers, The Times – ‘The British seaside town at its best (and cheapest) in winter’ Tourism Superstar 2025 Award: Southampton Saints Outstanding Contribution to Tourism Award: Railway 200 -
09 Apr 25
Partner News
10.6 million Brits plan a UK holiday trip for the Easter weekend, bringing a £3.9 billion economic boostVisitEngland’s Easter Trip Tracker survey, published today, indicates that 10.6 million Brits are definitely ...Read more10.6 million Brits plan a UK holiday trip for the Easter weekend, bringing a £3.9 billion economic boost - News & announcementsVisitEngland’s Easter Trip Tracker survey, published today, indicates that 10.6 million Brits are definitely planning an overnight holiday trip in the UK for the Easter weekend, bringing an estimated £3.9 billion boost to the economy. This is also more than the 6.7 million, 12% of Brits, who are planning a trip abroad this Easter. The figures are roughly on par with last year’s Easter Trip Tracker when 11 million Brits had definitely planned an overnight holiday trip in the UK for the long weekend. In 2023, the figure was 6.5 million. A further 3.4 million people surveyed this year were undecided about whether to take an overnight holiday trip in the UK during the Easter weekend. The top reasons for those were around ‘waiting to see what the weather is like’ and ‘waiting to see if I can afford it’. VisitEngland Chief Executive Patricia Yates said: “Tourism businesses and destinations will be looking to the critical Easter weekend for much needed cash flow after the lean winter months so it’s encouraging to see many of us are planning a holiday at home. From walking in our beautiful countryside with the promise of a pub lunch or on a city break exploring contemporary culture in our buzzing cities to enjoying fish and chips on the beach in our stunning seaside locations, there really is nowhere quite like Britain in springtime. “We also know from our latest research that the cost of living remains a concern and while people are still keen to take a break, many are booking late, taking shorter breaks, wanting to save on accommodation, activities and eating out, making it difficult for businesses to plan in advance. So a rallying cry to please go out and explore the amazing destinations and attractions here on our doorstep this spring, tourism businesses will be very pleased to see you.” Of those definitely planning an overnight domestic trip during the Easter break, the majority were planning a short-break of one-to-three nights. For information about what’s on this spring in England from hotel launches to foodie festivals and new look museums please see VisitEngland’s springtime news here: VisitEngland’s 2025 Springtime News | VisitBritain.org -
01 Apr 25
Partner News
VisitEngland Awards for Excellence 2025 finalists announcedVisitEngland has today, 1 April, announced the finalists who will go forward to the ...Read moreVisitEngland Awards for Excellence 2025 finalists announced - News & announcementsVisitEngland has today, 1 April, announced the finalists who will go forward to the tourism industry’s national Awards for Excellence. The 52 finalists, selected following a rigorous judging process by handpicked tourism industry experts, go on to compete in 16 core categories at the national awards in June. The VisitEngland Awards for Excellence have been championing the best in England’s tourism industry for more than three decades and celebrate quality, innovation, best practice and exceptional customer service. VisitEngland Director Andrew Stokes said: “England’s tourism industry has good reason to celebrate. As the finalists demonstrate, businesses across every region provide outstanding customer service along with high quality experiences while constantly innovating to find new ways to give more to visitors and the communities they serve. “The applications to this year’s awards and the list of finalists are a testament to the range of first-class products on offer to both domestic and international visitors. I congratulate all the finalists who are already winners, and I wish them the very best of luck.” The awards' categories range from ‘B&B and Guest House of the Year’ and ‘Experience of the Year’ to ‘Camping, Glamping and Holiday Park of the Year’ and ‘Large and Small Visitor Attraction of the Year’. In addition to the 16 core categories, two special awards are also being presented including a ‘Travel Content Award’ and the ‘Tourism Superstar Award’. This year’s awards worked in collaboration with 21 local competitions from across England with winners automatically put forward for the national awards. There were 1,800 applications to the 21 aligned local awards with 360 applicants forwarded for judging in the VisitEngand Awards for Excellence. These were made up of businesses including hotels, self-catering accommodation providers, B&Bs, glamping operators, visitor attractions, restaurants, pubs and museums. Finalists are invited to attend the national awards ceremony, held at the Brighton Dome Corn Exchange on 4 June, where Gold, Silver and Bronze winners will be announced at the black tie event. Tourism is one of England’s largest, most valuable industries, supporting more than 200,000 businesses, employing 2.6 million people and generating about £76 billion in domestic visitor spending. VisitEngland Awards for Excellence 2025 finalists: Accessible and Inclusive Tourism Award: Eureka! Science + Discovery, Merseyside Marsham Court Hotel, Dorset The Courtyard Trust Limited, Herefordshire B&B and Guest House of the Year: Abbots Grange Manor House, Worcestershire Boscastle House, Cornwall Sunnyside Guest House Southport, Merseyside Business Events Venue of the Year: Jodrell Bank Centre for Engagement, Cheshire Keele University Events and Conferencing, Staffordshire The Glasshouse International Centre for Music, Tyne & Wear Camping, Glamping and Holiday Park of the Year: Hippersons Boatyard, Suffolk Mendip Basecamp, Somerset Polmanter Touring Park, Cornwall Ethical, Responsible and Sustainable Tourism Award sponsored by Sykes Holiday Cottages : Battlesteads, Northumberland Sunnyside Guest House Southport, Merseyside The Quiet Site, Cumbria Experience of the Year: Cow Cuddling, Dumble Farm, East Riding of Yorkshire Introduction to Sailing, Mylor Sailing School, Cornwall The Wizard Walk of York, North Yorkshire International Tourism Award: St Mary's Guildhall, West Midlands The Beatles Story, Merseyside World of Wedgwood, Staffordshire Large Hotel of the Year sponsored by Ecclesiastical: Mallory Court Hotel & Spa, Warwickshire Sandburn Hall, North Yorkshire Titanic Hotel Liverpool, Merseyside Large Visitor Attraction of the Year sponsored by Raw Charging Network Ltd: Black Country Living Museum, West Midlands Liverpool Football Club Tours & Experiences, Merseyside National Space Centre, Leicestershire New Tourism Business of the Year: Ad Gefrin Anglo-Saxon Museum & Whisky Distillery, Northumberland Eight at Gazegill by Doug Crampton, Lancashire Eureka! Science + Discovery, Merseyside Pub of the Year: The Blind Bull, Derbyshire The Farmers Arms, Devon The Griffin Inn, Leicestershire Self Catering Accommodation of the Year sponsored by Sykes Holiday Cottages: Trevase Cottages, Herefordshire Treworgey Cottages, Cornwall Wolf Wood Treehouses, Devon Small Hotel of the Year: Seaham Hall, County Durham Summer Lodge Hotel, Dorset The Montagu Arms Hotel, Hampshire Small Visitor Attraction of the Year: King Richard III Visitor Centre, Leicestershire No.1 Royal Crescent, Somerset Sculpture by the Lakes, Dorset Taste of England Award: Searcys at The Pump Room, Somerset The Cavendish Hotel, Derbyshire The Riverside at Aymestrey, Herefordshire Unsung Hero Award: Andrew Hurley, Avoncroft Museum, Worcestershire Hannah Clapp, Muncaster Castle, Cumbria Caitlin Brown, The Escape Key, Tyne & Wear
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