Tourists return to UK in growing numbers

Inbound tourism to the UK enjoyed a minor boost last year but is set to grow faster in 2004, with visitor numbers expected to hit 25.5 million.

In 2003 the volume of inbound tourists is expected to total 24.7 million, an increase of 1.9% on 2002, according to figures released by VisitBritain. This year a further increase of 3.3% is predicted.

The value of inbound tourism is also on the up and predicted to have grown by 1.5% in 2003. This year it is expected to increase by a further 3.4% to £12.3b.

In the domestic market, value is winning over volume with forecasts predicting a 2.3% decline in the volume of tourists but a 2.1% increase in value to £21.2b in 2003. This year volume is predicted to pick up by 0.8% while value again increases 4.1% to £22.1b.

In London, figures released by the Office for National Statistics show the economic recovery is already gathering strength, with an increase in passengers on the Underground and a rise in tourists to the capital.