- Tourism's contribution to the UK economy forecast to grow to
£161 billion annually by 2030, as ministers develop new visitor
economy strategy
- Families set to save as the first rail fare freeze in 30
years makes travel to top sites more affordable
People across England are being encouraged to get out and
discover the remarkable tourism sites across the country, as
English Tourism Week kicks off tomorrow (13 March).
To mark the occasion, Tourism Minister has today brought
together leaders from across the tourism industry - spanning
major tourism businesses and attractions, award-winning
enterprises and key trade associations - for a reception at
Downing Street to celebrate the sector's vital contribution to
communities and the national economy.
This year's English
Tourism Week campaign, co-ordinated by VisitEngland, is
themed around ‘Local Stories, National Growth' - a rallying call
to shine a light on the people, places, businesses, attractions,
experiences and destinations that make England's tourism offer
world-class.
The recent VisitBritain Economic Impact
Study shows that tourism's direct and indirect (supply chain)
GDP impact in the UK reached £147 billion in 2024, accounting for
5% of the national economy and supporting 2.4 million jobs.
Tourism related employment has also increased by 8% since 2022.
According to the same report, the visitor economy is expected to
contribute £161 billion to the national economy annually by 2030.
The government is fully committed to making that growth happen.
Its ambition to welcome 50 million international visitors
annually by 2030 will be backed by a forthcoming National Visitor
Economy Strategy, set to be published in the spring. It will set
out a clear plan to drive investment, support businesses and put
more of England's destinations on the world map.
Tourism Minister said:
From our iconic historical landmarks to stunning landscapes and
coastlines, this country has so much to offer - and we want more
people to experience it.
It was a pleasure to host leaders from across the tourism sector
at No. 10 to celebrate the fantastic work the industry does.
Tourism creates jobs, strengthens local economies and enriches
communities. That's why this Government has a target of
attracting 50 million visitors per year by 2030. With the rail
fare freeze making train travel more affordable and a wealth of
budget-friendly options available, now is a great time to
discover the incredible places right on our doorsteps.
For families planning a trip, the timing could not be better. The
first rail fare freeze in 30
years will save passengers a combined £600 million in 2026/27,
making domestic travel more accessible and helping households
with the cost of living.
These changes are part of the government's plan to create Great
British Railways and rebuild a publicly owned railway that the
country can be proud of.
There are also options for families looking to enjoy trips
together while on a budget. Tips from VisitBritain include:
- Getting a multi-pass which gives you access to hundreds of
sites for a one-off price
- Buy tickets online ahead of your visit as it is usually
cheaper than on the door
- Research free events and attractions, such as museums and
galleries
- Visit National Parks across Britain - all 15 are free to
enter
- Look online for last-minute deals and special offers.
VisitEngland CEO Patricia Yates said:
English Tourism Week shines the spotlight on our world-class
tourism industry and with spring on the doorstep, now is the
perfect time to get out exploring our stunning countryside,
vibrant cities and coastal gems.
Tourism drives economic growth for England. It underpins pride in
our local communities and makes them places that we want to live
and work in and tell the world about. That pride-of-place and
business confidence attracts investment that supports communities
to thrive. Converting just 10% of what Brits spend on travelling
abroad to holidaying here could deliver an £8 billion boost
annually to our economy.
Every destination has a story to tell, and I encourage everyone
to support our tourism businesses, attractions and local events
during English Tourism Week and beyond. You will have an amazing
time and create memories to make you smile all year.
ENDSNotes to Editors
- English Tourism Week runs from 13 to 22 March 2026.
