Visits to England’s attractions increased by four per cent in 2014, consolidating the sector’s return to growth following 2013’s positive figures, according to VisitEngland’s Annual Attractions Survey.

The figures continue the growth of visitor numbers to England’s tourist attractions in 2013, demonstrating the important contribution attractions make to the tourism industry and the English economy, which is worth £106 billion in total. 

The benefits were felt across the country; with regions across England seeing an increase in visitor numbers.

The East of England saw the biggest rise - up ten per cent year on year - but the North West (up six per cent), North East (up seven per cent), West Midlands (up five per cent) and the South East (up six per cent) all experienced above average growth (up four per cent), indicating the important role attractions have in enticing people outside of London, to explore the country and experience what England has to offer.

As seen in previous years, certain types of attractions experienced more growth than others.

Country parks, gardens, wildlife attractions/zoos and historic houses/castles all experienced an increase in visitor numbers; with all attraction category sectors aside from places of worship seeing an increase in 2014. 

The research shows that those attraction businesses investing in marketing and digital platforms have seen an increase in visitor numbers. 
Gross revenue across all attractions increased five per cent when compared to the previous year.

The Tower of London remains the most visited attraction in the paid for category with 3.1 million visits, an increase of 6.5 per cent on last year, followed by Hylands House and Estate in Essex with 1.9 million visits and Westminster Abbey with 1.8 million visits.

VisitEngland, chief executive James Berresford, said: “It is wonderful that attractions across the country are experiencing an increase in visitor numbers and the benefits are being felt across regions.

“We know that England has a fantastic range of unique and outstanding product, which generate high levels of satisfaction for visitors.

“Our attractions are core to England’s tourism offer; contributing to economic growth and employment and we are fortunate to have such a wonderful and wide variety available to suit all visitors.”