Record numbers of people visit West Midlands in 2023
New figures have been released by the West Midlands Growth Company.
Last updated 18th Jul 2024
More people visited the West Midlands last year than ever before, according to new figures.
145.4 million visits were made, an increase of more than four million compared to 2022, when the region hosted the Commonwealth Games.
Major events which saw visitors flock to the West Midlands included Birmingham Festival 23, Harry Styles and Arctic Monkeys performing at Coventry Building Society Arena, and The Ashes.
The Black Country Living Museum launched its new 1940s-60s high street, and the Sandwell Aquatics Centre opened its doors to the public for the first time.
The West Midlands Growth Company said the record visitor numbers boosted the economy by 15%, now worth £16.3 billion.
Richard Parker, Mayor of the West Midlands and WMCA Chair, said: “The West Midlands is a fantastic, welcoming destination, so it is heartening that increasing numbers of visitors are choosing to discover and enjoy all of the region’s outstanding attributes.
“Tourism is one of the West Midlands’ success stories – and I am committed to ensuring this upward trend continues and that more people put this region on their travel plans. Whether it’s our heritage, cultural or sporting offer, we have so many fascinating tales to tell."
This summer, the West Midlands launches its first visitor pass – a new digital ticket that will offer tourists admission to multiple major attractions, museums, activities and gardens across the region.
Neil Rami, Chief Executive at the West Midlands Growth Company, said: “The new West Midlands visitor pass will positively change the way that people enjoy our region’s great venues, landmarks and hidden gems.
“Building on another record-breaking year for tourism in the West Midlands and responding to a high demand from both visitors and our partners to introduce it, this pass will make it more affordable and convenient for the growing number of people who are choosing to spend their leisure time in this region."