West Yorkshire's recent creative and cultural celebrations have
contributed to record visitor numbers, new figures reveal today
(1st August) as the region celebrates Yorkshire
Day.
Mayor has welcomed research which
shows that West Yorkshire welcomed 73 million visitors in 2024, a
3% increase on the previous year, with spending in the local
economy rising by 7.8% to £6.26 billion. The tourism and
hospitality sector now supports 54,000 jobs for local people, up
by 2.6%.
This growth has been attributed to successful 'year of culture'
events hosted across the region ahead of Bradford UK City of
Culture 2025, taking place this year.
Kirklees and Leeds set the scene in 2023 by rolling out diverse
programmes of performances, exhibitions and community-led
projects, before handing the baton to Calderdale and Wakefield to
showcase even more of the region's creative spirit in 2024.
With Bradford's year in the spotlight now in full swing, the
momentum is expected to boost West Yorkshire's visitor economy
further in 2025.
, Mayor of West Yorkshire,
said:
“It's fantastic that more people are visiting the region and
seeing everything we have to offer.
“And these record figures clearly show that culture isn't
just nice to have - it helps us create good jobs, vibrant places
and economic growth.
“That's why we're investing in culture, heritage and sport,
and putting West Yorkshire on the map as the place to be.
“Building on this legacy with even more investment and
opportunities will attract more people to a stronger, brighter
West Yorkshire that works for all.”
Cllr , Leader of Leeds City Council
and Chair of West Yorkshire Combined Authority's Economy
Committee, said:
“It's truly inspiring to see the combined and sustained
efforts of cities across the region to put culture at the heart
of life in West Yorkshire bearing fruit in such impressive
fashion.
“We have long championed the huge social, economic and
reputational value of culture and the arts and the unique power
they have to unite and galvanize cities and communities to be
their best.
“These figures demonstrate that by putting our faith in
culture, we can drive economic growth, inward investment and job
creation, all while putting our cities on the map and making them
incredible, exciting places to live, work and visit.”
The new research was carried out by Global Tourism Solutions UK,
using the industry recognised STEAM Economic Impact of Tourism
Model.
It was commissioned by West Yorkshire's Local Visitor Economy
Partnership - a strategic partnership between the region's five
local authorities, chaired by Mayor , to support the tourism
sector across West Yorkshire. The partnership proactively
develops tourism product and experiences, and markets West
Yorkshire as a visitor destination to attract new visitors.
Belinda Eldridge, Head of Destination Marketing and
International Relations and West Yorkshire Local Visitor Economy
Partnership Lead, said:
“These results reflect the growing appeal of West Yorkshire
as a must-visit destination.
“Through strategic marketing, international outreach, and a
strong partnership approach, we're attracting more visitors,
encouraging longer stays, and showcasing the very best of what
our region has to offer.
“This momentum is vital for sustaining a thriving visitor
economy that benefits communities across West Yorkshire.”
