English Tourism Week, which is taking place this week, celebrates the quality and value of the sector and its importance to local economies and destinations.

The annual event kick-starts the summer tourist season, offering English businesses and destinations a chance to be part of a national campaign. It aims to raise awareness of the tourism industry among key stakeholders, including MPs, government ministers and the media, and this year’s theme is ‘Supporting tourism, the heart of our communities’.

English Tourism Week is organised by VisitEngland, the national tourist board for England, and forms part of VisitEngland’s mission to champion the sector through political engagement nationally, regionally and locally – demonstrating to political decision-makers the importance of tourism in England and in their local area. 

Composing 80% of the UK’s visitor economy, English tourism is a major employer of school leavers and young people, as well as an incubator for entrepreneurs and innovation. £88.93 billion was spent on tourism in England in 2022 and this included 27.8 million inbound trips.

In 2024, inbound visits are forecast to increase to 37.8 million (92% of the 2019 level and 5% higher than in 2023) and £31.7 billion spend (112% of the 2019 level and 7% higher than in 2023).

VisitEngland is encouraging people to visit an attraction or accommodation provider during English Tourism Week 2024 in addition to sharing their favourite English destinations and holiday memories on social media, using the hashtag #EnglishTourismWeek24 and tagging @VisitEnglandBiz in tweets.

VisitEngland says it is proud to lead English Tourism Week, celebrating the country’s diverse, exciting and vibrant sector and highlighting the quality and value of English tourism.

HM King Charles III is Patron of English Tourism Week and speaking in 2016 said: “I personally believe that we are incredibly lucky to be blessed with such a rich assortment of historic and cultural gems in this country, not to mention the jewel of our national parks and, above all, some of the wonders of our many hidden gardens which are once again ready to amaze and delight visitors.”

Janet Redler, Managing Director of Janet Redler Travel, added: "English Tourism Week is a valuable opportunity each year for the sector to come together with one voice to communicate its key role at the heart of our communities. Tourism is a vital part of the English economy and this event shines a spotlight on its importance in generating income, employment and innovation.”

If you or your group would like to enjoy a tailor-made tour of England, please do contact our friendly team today.