Tourism
Tourism is one of the fastest growing sectors in the UK, with the East of England showing the fastest increase in leisure trips nationally. As well as a destination,particularly for day trips and short stays, the sub-region provides an important gateway to passengers through Harwich International Port – some 500,000 visitors. The Haven Gateway is in close proximity to the UK’s third largest airport at Stansted.
Key Facts
- 21,700,600 visitor trips are made to the sub-region annually creating a value of trips estimated at £1,185,305,750
- The industry directly supports some 25,390 jobs across the sub-region
- Fastest growing region in the country for leisure trips - provisional figures for international arrivals for the full year 2009 vs 2008 and for holiday visits showed more growth than any other region with a significant 25% uplift. Total nights stayed also grew by 13% (2nd highest) and average spend grew 30% (3rd highest)
- Together with the highest growth in the domestic staying market, the region is the fastest growing region for leisure trips
The Market
The sub-region provides an authentic experience for the discerning visitor. The visitor economy is now the largest employer in Suffolk and it directly contributes to food and drink, transport, culture and other sectors. Currently, with a favourable exchange rate, UK tourism is directly benefiting from a robust value proposition likely to be reinforced by the Olympics in 2012
Cruise and Ferry
Harwich International Port is the third busiest cruise port in the UK as well as offering two regular ferry routes - to the Hook of Holland and to Esberg in Denmark.
Tourism and Leisure in your area
Click here for links to your local district tourism department.
