VisitBritain has joined forces with social networking site Facebook to launch the world's first online league table of popular places created by tourists.

The venture, designed with the help of social media technology company Betapond, encourages visitors to 'check in' using a mobile device every time they reach a notable British location and write a review of what they find. The information then automatically updates the list of 'Top 50 UK Places' on VisitBritain's LoveUK website - http://www.facebook.com/LoveUK. Ultimately, tourists are expected to be able to check in at around 50,000 key locations across the country.

The new development is based on the new Facebook Places technology, which lets users 'check in' to Facebook using a mobile phone, tablet or computer to let a user's friends know where they are at that moment. VisitBritain says it is the first time the system has been used to promote a whole country. Users will automatically receive information about which of their friends have also been there and what they said about the location. Arrows will show whether a particular attraction is rising or falling in the league table as more 'check-ins' arrive. Free attractions will carry a special logo.

The new development is the latest move in VisitBritain's campaign to make the most of social media in promoting Britain as a tourist destination. Justin Reid, head of digital marketing for VisitBritain said: 'It is crucial that VisitBritain continues to embrace new ways to build relationships between international tourists and all UK attractions. We operate in a highly competitive market and Facebook Places offers us a smart and cost effective way of engaging directly with overseas tourists.

"We will be working closely with all tourist destinations to show them how they can market themselves on the platform and create viral recommendations." In a related development, a partnership between VisitBritain and electronics company Samsung aims to increase visitor numbers to the UK with the introduction of a new phone app called 'Best of Britain'.

The app will allow visitors to look at the best recommendations for accommodation, entertainment and day trips as well as providing maps and pictures. The deal is part of the government's wider drive to generate marketing and PR ahead of the 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games, and culture secretary, Jeremy Hunt said: "The London 2012 Games provide a fantastic opportunity to boost UK tourism and stimulate lasting economic growth.

"The partnership between VisitBritain and Samsung is a great example of what can be achieved when the public and private sectors come together. The UK has one of the most vibrant and varied tourism offers in the world and innovative ideas like this will help to encourage more visitors to our shores." Image: MarPix