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Visitor attractions in the UK have seen an average increase of 6.5% compared with 2013 visitor numbers, according to the Association of Leading Visitor Attractions (ALVA).
AVLA found that Scottish attractions enjoyed the greatest increase at almost 10%, followed by London with an increase of 7.11%.
The British Museum remained the most popular visitor attraction overall for the 8th year running with 6,695,213 visitors, while the National Gallery remained in second place with 6,416,724 – an increase of 6.4%.
Included in the numbers for the first time was the Southbank Centre, which saw 6,255 visitors, securing them third place.
Libraries attracted substantial visitors with the Library of Birmingham – which opened in 2013 – being the most visited free attraction outside London, coming in at 10th place with 2,414,860.
Museums and galleries throughout the UK saw a 6.1% increase, compared to 11.75% in London. Blockbuster exhibitions continued to boost visitor numbers – with Tate Modern welcoming a record 5,785,427 visitors (4th place).
Bernard Donoghue, director of ALVA, said: “I am delighted that our members’ figures are going from strength to strength – reflecting the significant role they play in the economy.
“These figures clearly demonstrate the popularity of our best loved attractions and the importance of tourism to the UK – it’s the fifth biggest industry and the third largest employer, generating £127bn per year.”
Image courtesy of VisitEngland/Diana jarvis
