City’s visitor economy now worth £350m

A new report says Hull is continuing to grow its reputation as a top destination for both domestic and international tourists with its visitor economy growing to £350m in 2019.

This rose from £313m in 2018, an increase of 12%. Back in 2012 the value of tourism to the city was £245m.

The latest figures come from a recent report, commissioned by Visit Hull and East Yorkshire, which showed 6.5 million people visited the city in 2019, compared to 6.2 million in 2018.

International overnight trips to the city also increased by 2% last year, contributing to the £62.3 million that was spent by overnight visitors – a 3% rise from 2018.

The city’s tourism sector now employs 7,529 people, an increase of 12% compared to 2018. In 2012, the sector employed 5,297 people.

Councillor Dave Craker, portfolio holder for culture and tourism, said: “The city has seen unprecedented growth in its visitor economy over the past 10 years.

“Our visitor economy brings millions of pounds into the city, benefiting various businesses, especially in the hospitality sector, as well as creating thousands of additional jobs for people in our region.

“Once again we’ve seen our visitor economy continue to grow, building on the incredible success and momentum achieved from UK City of Culture in 2017.”