Region's tourism spend 'tops £1bn' for first time

Hull and East Yorkshire's visitor spend has topped £1bn for the first time, according to the region's tourism body.

It comes after the publication of a national report revealing the tourism sector's contribution to the UK economy and employment.

Chris Blacksell, chairman of Visit Hull and East Yorkshire (VHEY), described it as "fantastic news" for the region.

Hull was named one of the top 25 global destinations to visit in 2026 by National Geographic in its Best of the World list, with the publication noting the city's major regeneration programme, including the restoration of museums, docks and preserved ships.

Blacksell said: "Tourism plays a vital role in our regional economy, supporting jobs, sustaining businesses and showcasing the unique places, people and experiences that make our area such a great destination to visit.

"The whole sector supports about 21,000 jobs, and it's worth more than £1bn to our local economy.

"It's really, really important."

Blacksell highlighted the region's market towns, maritime history, walks and beautiful beaches, adding: "We genuinely have got everything people could want."

However, he told BBC Radio Humberside the region's "hidden gem" was its people.

"I think we've got the most welcoming people in the UK," he said.

VHEY is nationally accredited by tourism body Visit England, and supported by both the region's councils.

Councillor Nick Coultish, portfolio holder for culture, leisure and tourism, at East Riding of Yorkshire Council, said: "Hull and East Yorkshire offers visitors an incredible variety of experiences, from our stunning coastline and countryside to historic towns, unique attractions and fantastic food and drink.

"This report highlights the strength of the region's visitor economy and the dedication of the many businesses and people who work hard to create exceptional experiences for visitors."

Coultish's counterpart at Hull City Council, councillor Rob Pritchard, added: "This latest report is hugely encouraging and reflects the growing appeal of Hull and East Yorkshire as a visitor destination."

The economic report was carried out by Oxford Economics, and details the latest available data from 2024.

A similar Cambridge Model report in 2023 showed visitor spend for Hull and East Yorkshire was £815.9m.

Andrew Stokes, director of Visit England, said: "As our report demonstrates, tourism drives economic growth for our regions, and it is brilliant to see Visit Hull and East Yorkshire highlight the sector's importance to the economy and to the community.

"Tourism underpins pride in our local communities and makes them places that we want to live and work in, and tell the world about. Every destination has a great story to tell."

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