Tourism in the UK is doing more than boosting the economy—it’s improving people’s health, happiness, and sense of community. According to a new report by VisitEngland, residents in tourist areas feel significantly more connected, proud, and healthier than those in non-tourist areas.
Tourism’s Wider Impact: New Findings from VisitEngland
The report, titled “The Social Value of Tourism”, reveals how tourism contributes to social cohesion, well-being, and community pride. People in “host communities”—those living in areas with high tourist activity—were found to be 23% more connected to their communities. Specifically, 58% of residents in these areas felt community connection, compared to just 35% in non-tourist regions.
These communities also showed a 12% increase in “pride-in-place,” and nearly 80% of residents in host communities expressed pride in their local area. An original measurement tool, the Resident Empowerment Index, which combines feelings of pride, connectedness, and agency, showed scores 20% higher in host communities.
Tourism’s Impact on Health, Happiness, and Nature
The benefits aren’t limited to residents. Nearly 80% of UK travelers said they felt more positive after a domestic trip, and over 70% reported feeling healthier or replenished. About 6 in 10 travelers also reported a greater appreciation for nature, and many were inspired to support local businesses or donate to community causes.
Tourism also improves physical access to culture and green spaces. Over 50% of residents in host communities live within five miles of museums, waterways, heritage sites, or beaches—compared to longer distances in non-host communities. These surroundings contribute not only to leisure but also to improved mental and physical health, reduced stress, and a greater sense of well-being.
Regenerative Tourism: A New Model for the Future
Going beyond sustainability, the report promotes the concept of regenerative tourism—an approach that seeks to actively improve communities and environments through tourism. It repositions tourism as a tool for restoration rather than simple preservation. This includes supporting local economies, creating job opportunities, and improving local infrastructure while aligning with environmental goals.
One regional pioneer is the North East Regenerative Visitor Economy Framework, a community-driven plan to double the region’s visitor economy by 2034. This framework emphasizes stakeholder collaboration, autonomy, and long-term benefits across cultural, environmental, and economic dimensions.
Case Studies: Real-Life Benefits in Action
- Liverpool & Eurovision 2023: Liverpool hosted over 500,000 visitors and showcased both Ukrainian and Liverpudlian culture. The city engaged 250 local artists and provided 63 grants to community groups—resulting in a lasting legacy and increased return tourism.
- National Forest: Through regenerative planning and over 5,000 new jobs, this 200-square-mile area has experienced increases in biodiversity, woodland bird populations, and eco-friendly development using local timber.
- VENI in East Anglia: The Visitor Economy Network Initiative helps unemployed and underserved individuals access careers in tourism, building skills and civic pride through partnerships with colleges and local businesses.
Key Metrics at a Glance
| Measure | Host Communities | Non-Host Communities |
|---|---|---|
| Feel Connected to Community | 58% | 35% |
| Pride in Local Area | 80% | ~70% |
| Tourism Apprenticeships (Age ≤24) | 85% | 52% (All Sectors) |
| Resident Empowerment Index | 20% Higher | Baseline |
Infrastructure, Inclusion, and Employment
Tourism also fuels investment in public services. Host communities benefit from improved transportation infrastructure, as seen in projects in Cornwall, the Yorkshire Dales, and Thanet. These upgrades benefit both tourists and residents with more frequent bus and rail services.
Employment in tourism is diverse, with opportunities for young people and those from varied educational backgrounds. The sector ranks high in job quality, outperforming similar industries on criteria such as job progression and gender pay equity. Tourism also ranks 4th among 21 sectors for gender equality in pay.
In Blackpool, coordinated planning has helped the town transform into a year-round destination. The visitor economy now supports over 22,000 jobs and contributes more than £1.7 billion annually. Local partnerships like the Blackpool Tourism Academy train residents for skilled roles in hospitality, entertainment, and operations.
Whether it’s cultural pride, nature access, stronger communities, or economic mobility, tourism in the UK is showing that travel isn’t just about where you go—it’s about how it makes everyone feel.
Read the full report for more information.
