- Visit Britain has released its forecast for inbound tourism in 2026.
- Visitor numbers are predicted to grow by four percent.
- Spending is due to increase by seven percent.
- The agency has highlighted economic uncertainty and geopolitical factors.
- Long haul markets are expected to resume growth slightly faster than Europe.
Visit Britain has released its forecast for inbound tourism in 2026 and predicts moderate growth of 4pc in visitor numbers.
Spending is set to rise by seven percent amid continued recovery. The agency has warned of economic uncertainty and geopolitical risks that could affect the outlook.
This steady climb is part of a broader recovery and expansion trend following several record-breaking years for England’s travel industry.
The 4pc growth target reflects a shift from the rapid post-pandemic “rebound” phase to a more sustainable, long-term growth trajectory.The forecast suggests total inbound visits will surpass the record levels seen in 2025, which saw approximately 43.4 million visitors.
Spending by international tourists is expected to outpace the volume of visits, driven by a high-value market mix—particularly from the United States, which remains England’s most valuable source market. The Tourism World Tourism Barometer also predicts global international tourism growth of 3pc to 4pc for 2026.
A packed calendar of sporting events and music tours continues to act as a major “pull” factor for international travelers. A significant boost is expected from the continued recovery of the Asia-Pacific region, including a projected increase in visitors from China and South East Asia.
While travel costs remain high, the gradual decline in tourism service inflation is making England a more competitive destination for 2026. Despite the positive outlook, industry experts from UN Tourism and Condor Ferries note that geopolitical tensions and fluctuating exchange rates remain the primary risks that could dampen these growth figures.
