The national tourism agency, VisitBritain, has commissioned a series of immersive 360 degree experiences giving overseas visitors an opportunity to step inside some of Britain’s most famous attractions. Listen to the grandfather clock chime in Anne Hathaway’s cottage, take a leisurely stroll on the beach at Durdle Door, or enjoy the choir singing at Rosslyn Chapel are some of the things international tourists can now do in Britain- before they even arrive.
As part of the Government’s successful GREAT tourism campaign, this activity from VisitBritain aims to drive more international visitors out across the nations and regions of Britain. International tourism continues to deliver economic benefits across the country, and the last two years have seen almost all other parts of the UK grow faster than London. By UK area, Yorkshire recorded the highest levels of growth in visits in 2014, followed by Scotland and the North East. For spending, Scotland leads the way with a 10 per cent increase, followed closely by the East of England at nine per cent and the South East at eight per cent.
Joss Croft, marketing director, VisitBritain said, “Not only will this immersive experience allow potential visitors to snoop around some of our greatest tourist attractions before they arrive, but it will inspire and motivate more travel across the country. London is a huge global asset for Britain– a dynamic, cosmopolitan and well-connected city that visitors aspire to visit. Our challenge is to encourage visitors to add to their holiday experience by exploring even more during their short time here and making sure they know how easy it is to get around.”
In 2014 the UK welcomed a record 34.8 million international visitors, up by six per cent on 2013. Altogether they spent another record £21.7 billion in our economy (also up three per cent in real terms), directly supporting 500,000 jobs. As a result of the success of recent years, VisitBritain projects that the UK will welcome a record 42 million international visitors annually by 2020.