West Yorkshire’s recent creative and cultural celebrations have contributed to record visitor numbers, new figures reveal.
Mayor Tracy Brabin has welcomed research which shows that West Yorkshire welcomed 73 million visitors in 2024, a 3% increase on the previous year, with spending in the local economy rising by 7.8% to £6.26 billion. The tourism and hospitality sector now supports 54,000 jobs for local people, up by 2.6%.
This growth has been attributed to successful ‘year of culture’ events hosted across the region ahead of Bradford UK City of Culture 2025, taking place this year.
Kirklees and Leeds set the scene in 2023 by rolling out diverse programmes of performances, exhibitions and community-led projects, before handing the baton to Calderdale and Wakefield to showcase even more of the region’s creative spirit in 2024.
With Bradford’s year in the spotlight now in full swing, the momentum is expected to boost West Yorkshire’s visitor economy further in 2025.
Tracy Brabin, Mayor of West Yorkshire, said: “It’s fantastic that more people are visiting the region and seeing everything we have to offer.
“And these record figures clearly show that culture isn’t just nice to have – it helps us create good jobs, vibrant places and economic growth.
“That’s why we’re investing in culture, heritage and sport, and putting West Yorkshire on the map as the place to be.
“Building on this legacy with even more investment and opportunities will attract more people to a stronger, brighter West Yorkshire that works for all.”
Cllr James Lewis, Leader of Leeds City Council and Chair of West Yorkshire Combined Authority’s Economy Committee, said: “It’s truly inspiring to see the combined and sustained efforts of cities across the region to put culture at the heart of life in West Yorkshire bearing fruit in such impressive fashion.
“We have long championed the huge social, economic and reputational value of culture and the arts and the unique power they have to unite and galvanize cities and communities to be their best.
“These figures demonstrate that by putting our faith in culture, we can drive economic growth, inward investment and job creation, all while putting our cities on the map and making them incredible, exciting places to live, work and visit.”
The new research was carried out by Global Tourism Solutions UK, using the industry recognised STEAM Economic Impact of Tourism Model.
It was commissioned by West Yorkshire’s Local Visitor Economy Partnership – a strategic partnership between the region’s five local authorities, chaired by Mayor Tracy Brabin, to support the tourism sector across West Yorkshire. The partnership proactively develops tourism product and experiences, and markets West Yorkshire as a visitor destination to attract new visitors.
Belinda Eldridge, Head of Destination Marketing and International Relations and West Yorkshire Local Visitor Economy Partnership Lead, said: “These results reflect the growing appeal of West Yorkshire as a must-visit destination.
“Through strategic marketing, international outreach, and a strong partnership approach, we’re attracting more visitors, encouraging longer stays, and showcasing the very best of what our region has to offer.
“This momentum is vital for sustaining a thriving visitor economy that benefits communities across West Yorkshire.”
