Tourists flock to England's attractions
25th August 2010
The increasing number of people enjoying England's tourist attractions may choose to purchase breakdown cover to avoid their day being spoilt.
Some 5% more people made visits as all categories of attractions experienced an increase in visitors last year, according to VisitEngland's statistics. Historic houses and castles proved to be especially popular, with visitor numbers up 12%.
The Tower of London was the top admission-charging attraction in England in 2009, with visits rising 10.6% to a little below 2.4 million. St Paul's Cathedral was next, welcoming more than 1.82 million visitors, some 7.9% more than in 2008.
The British Museum proved to be most popular free attraction, even though visitor numbers fell by 6% to below 5.57 million. The National Gallery hosted 4.78 million people last year, an increase of 9% on 2008's figures.
Visits to gardens rose 10% last year, while steam and heritage railways enjoyed a 7% increase.
Attractions in rural locations (up 7%) outperformed those in coastal spots (up 3%) and urban destinations (up 3%).
VisitEngland chief executive James Berresford said: "This latest report shows a strong trend towards day trips, with attractions reporting an 8% increase in visitors who live locally.
"Wherever we live in the country, we are never far away from some amazing attractions offering a great day out for the whole family."
Copyright © Press Association 2010
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