The latest results from the Great Britain Tourism Survey published by VisitEngland reveal a record breaking performance for domestic tourism in the first quarter of the year.

Some 28.7 million trips were recorded in England between January and April this year, an 18 per cent increase year on year, and the highest number of trips recorded during the first quarter since the survey began in 2006.

There was also an 18 per cent increase in expenditure, with the total rising by almost £5 billion compared to 2014.

These figures are a significant improvement on last year, which dipped due to the severe weather conditions and flooding at the beginning of the year. 

VisitEngland’s latest Tourism Business Monitor supports the findings of this month’s GBTS.

Nearly half of accommodation providers and 56 per cent of attractions have reported experiencing an increase in visitors for the year to May.

Looking ahead, over nine in ten of the businesses surveyed remain confident about the school summer holiday period.

This is particularly true amongst accommodation providers who’ve reported high numbers of advanced bookings.

VisitEngland chief executive James Berresford said: “These results tell a positive story for the first quarter as we approach the summer holiday season.

“The tourism industry’s confidence demonstrates the resilience of businesses who bounced-back after the severe weather conditions that impacted destinations at the beginning of last year.

“We know that England has a fantastic range of standout product and generates high levels of satisfaction for visitors.

“With the plethora of sporting, cultural and foodie events taking place across the country this summer we hope this strong performance will continue to boost the industry – and we will continue to work with our partners to ensure we remain globally competitive, a world-class destination that entices domestic and international visitors.”