Incoming tourists increase by 8% in January
Incoming tourism figures have got off to a strong start in 2014, with an 8% year-on-year increase in overseas visitors during January.
According to new figures from the Office for National Statistics, the number of visits to the UK for the 12 months to January 2014 was 7% higher than a year earlier and earnings grew by 13%.
Visits from all areas for the 12-month period were up, with those from Europe and all other countries increasing by 7% and 9% respectively. Business trips grew 7%, while holiday visits increased 8% and visits to friends or relatives grew 5%.
Mike Saul, head of hospitality and leisure at Barclays said: "Against the backdrop of an improving economy and a strong marketing campaign, the continuing positive trend in the travel figures further underlines the UK's position as a world-class destination for overseas visitors. Tourist numbers and spend continue to rise year on year and our clients are already talking of an uptick in forward bookings as we move into 2014."
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