The mayor of West Yorkshire, Tracy Brabin, Bradford 2025 UK City of Culture, and Airbnb have come together to celebrate the impact of UK City of Culture 2025 on Bradford and West Yorkshire’s tourism sector.
Alongside a group of senior political leaders, tourism partners and businesses, on Friday (28 November) the mayor discussed the future of tourism as a driver of long-term growth and cultural vitality for the region.
Bradford 2025 has spurred local economic growth and increased tourism in both the city and West Yorkshire region. Bradford 2025 attracted an estimated 1.1 million participants at events by its midway point, with figures showing a 150% increase in visitors to Impressions Gallery and a 44% increase at Cartwright Hall.
The programme is predicted to generate an additional £136.9m in visitor spend to the local economy. This rise reflects growing visitor demand for cultural events and wider growth in West Yorkshire.
Looking beyond 2025, participants discussed how cultural tourism can fuel growth, inspire creativity and strengthen regional pride. Chaired by mayor Brabin, the group discussed future priorities for West Yorkshire’s visitor economy, including sustainable growth, skills development, and community involvement through the promotion of cultural heritage and economic regeneration across the region.
Shanaz Gulzar, creative director of Bradford 2025, said: “Today’s meeting has brought together some of our region’s most inspiring advocates to talk about the important role culture plays in tourism and economic growth. This year we have seen first-hand the significant impact cultural events have had on tourism, with visitors discovering all Bradford District has to offer whilst here to enjoy the cultural programme.”
Luke Impett, external affairs and partnerships lead, Airbnb, said: “We’re proud to have been the official accommodation provider for Bradford 2025 in line with our commitment to support the best of British events, stays and attractions.
“Airbnb stays are vital in sustaining the tourism that the UK City of Culture programme has unlocked and driven almost £12.9m into the city already. As we look beyond 2025, we’re committed to ensuring this momentum continues, creating lasting benefits for communities across Bradford and West Yorkshire.”
Tracy Brabin, mayor of West Yorkshire, said: “Bradford’s year as UK City of Culture 2025 has shown the world what we already know – that West Yorkshire is a place of extraordinary creativity, talent and ambition.
“This new data shows the real economic opportunities that cultural tourism brings. We’ll keep building on this momentum to ensure a stronger, brighter West Yorkshire, where the benefits of growth, investment and regeneration are felt in every community.”
