Register to get 1 free article
Reveal the article below by registering for our email newsletter.
Want unlimited access? View Plans
Already have an account? Sign in
VisitEngland has hailed the Rugby World Cup as the ‘most successful’ to date with the tournament injecting £1bn directly into the UK economy.
The tourism board said that this figure increased to £2.5bn when indirect spending was taken into account, such as travelling to different UK attractions between games.
In total 2.47 million tickets were sold – 98% of available tickets – which beat France’s 2007 record-figure of 2.25 million.
According to figures from Trivago, prices for rooms in the host cities soared to an average of £261 per night. Cardiff was found to be the most expensive city with prices peaking at an average of £1,018 for the Quarter Final which took place on 17 October – 1095% above the 2014 average of £85 per night.
Meanwhile, revenue per available room (RevPAR) grew significantly for hotels in the host cities in the opening weekend of the tournament, according to data from STR Global.
James Berresford, chief executive of VisitEngland, said: “This Rugby World Cup will be remembered as the biggest rugby tournament to date. Over the past six weeks we have hosted a fantastic celebration across 13 venues and 11 destinations that have showcased the very best of our sport, but also the very best of England.
“Estimates shows that the UK economy has benefitted from a £1 billion direct cash injection, a boost of £2.5 billion when indirect spend is taken into account. With visitors enjoying the atmosphere of the tournament; travelling, sightseeing and exploring the country; visiting the fantastic destinations that England has to offer in between games.
“In addition to the matches, we have had 1.5 million people through 15 fanzones across the country, with huge support from the cities, making this a record-breaking tournament to be proud of.”
