National museums in the UK have recorded five million extra visits since admission fees were scrapped by the government in December 2001.

Figures from the Department for Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) show that since the introduction of free entry, the institutions taking part have seen an increase of 66 per cent in visitor numbers.

Culture minister David Lammy said: “What is clear from these figures is that our decision to invest in free admission has been a huge success.”

The overall increase came despite an 11 per cent drop in visitor numbers to London museums following the July bombings last year.

“Like many of our tourist attractions, our museums went through a tough period after the events of 7 July,” said Lammy.

“But it is testament to their enduring appeal and the quality of experience they offer that visitor numbers are starting to pick up again.” Details: www.culture.gov.uk