New figures published by the Office of National Statistics (ONS) have reported an increase in both UK inbound visitor numbers and expenditure in 2011, when compared with 2010.

Inbound tourism growth has also continued into the new year, with the number of visits by overseas residents up 4 per cent in the 12 months ending February 2012 to 30.9 million.

In the year ending February 2012, the number of holiday trips was up 4 per cent to 12.1 million and visits to friends and relatives grew by 7 per cent to 9 million.

ONS data also revealed that a decline in the number of North American visitor numbers was halted in 2011, with a 5.6 per cent increase on figures for the previous year.

Elsewhere, visits from 'other countries' and European nations were up 9.3 and 1.3 per cent respectively in 2011. However, only Europe delivered growth during the fourth quarter of the year.

The number of visits to London increased during the first three quarters of the year, before falling back in Q4. Trips to the rest of England showed signs of growth in all four quarters.

Inbound visitor numbers to Scotland and Wales remained broadly in line with 2010, with the former posting a Q4 increase in visits following successive declines in Q1 and Q2.

Details: www.ons.gov.uk

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