By KLTV Newsdesk –

Region welcomes 73 million visitors, £6.26 billion spend, and thousands of jobs on Yorkshire Day

West Yorkshire’s creative and cultural celebrations have helped deliver record-breaking tourism figures, according to new research released this month.

The region welcomed 73 million visitors in 2024, a 3% increase on the previous year.

Visitor spending grew by 7.8% to £6.26 billion, while the tourism and hospitality sector now supports 54,000 jobs, a rise of 2.6%.

This growth has been fuelled by major ‘year of culture’ events hosted across West Yorkshire in the run-up to Bradford UK City of Culture 2025, which is currently underway.

Cultural Events Driving Economic Growth

Kirklees and Leeds led the way in 2023 with a packed calendar of performances, exhibitions, and community-led projects.

In 2024, Calderdale and Wakefield continued the cultural momentum, showcasing the region’s creativity.

With Bradford’s landmark year now in full swing, experts predict a further boost to the visitor economy in 2025.

Mayor Tracy Brabin: ‘Culture Creates Jobs and Growth’

Mayor of West Yorkshire, Tracy Brabin, said: “It’s fantastic that more people are visiting the region and seeing everything we have to offer.

“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.”

Partnership Efforts Paying Off

Cllr James Lewis, Leader of Leeds City Council and Chair of West Yorkshire Combined Authority’s Economy Committee, added: “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.

“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.”

Tourism Strategy Behind the Numbers

The research, commissioned by West Yorkshire’s Local Visitor Economy Partnership, was conducted by Global Tourism Solutions UK using the industry-recognised STEAM Economic Impact of Tourism Model.

The partnership, chaired by Mayor Tracy Brabin, brings together the region’s five local authorities to support and grow the visitor economy, developing tourism products, creating experiences, and marketing West Yorkshire as a must-visit destination.

Belinda Eldridge, Head of Destination Marketing and International Relations and Lead for the Partnership, 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.”