Published: Wednesday, 18th December 2024
Medway’s tourism industry has continued to bounce back in the wake of the Covid pandemic, according to the latest data released this week.
The new report – commissioned by Visit Kent and created using the industry-respected Cambridge Economic Impact Model – shows strong signs of recovery for tourism in Medway, as visitor numbers near pre-pandemic levels, with 4.8 million people choosing to visit Medway in 2023, up 38% compared to 2021.
Not only has Medway’s tourism industry rebounded in volume, but it has also made significant strides in value, generating £345 million in revenue, marking a 71% rise versus 2021.
Tourism also continues to boost local employment, supporting jobs across Medway, representing 7% of total employment..
Inbound tourism has surged significantly, with 114,500 overseas trips made in 2023, exceeding pre-pandemic levels by 9%. This growth reflects the continued appeal to international visitors and the successful efforts to rebuild global connectivity.
Day trips to Medway have also demonstrated particularly strong appeal, nearing 2019 levels with 4.4 million day trips, a 37% increase compared to 2021.
Day trip spending also reached £166 million, a 61% increase compared to 2021, further highlighting the popularity of domestic travel and its contribution to the visitor economy.
New figures show appeal of Medway destinations
Cllr Harinder Mahil, Medway Council’s Portfolio Holder for Economic and Social Regeneration and Inward Investment, said: “This report is great for Medway, but reflects something we’ve known all along about the brilliant value and appeal of our visitor destinations and heritage sites. Tourism took a knock everywhere during the pandemic, but with our fantastic cultural offer, brilliant sports centres, and destinations like Rochester Cathedral and Rochester Castle, Medway was always going to bounce-back – and I’m sure we will continue to draw more and more visitors keen to discover both our famous sites and hidden gems. The work doesn’t stop here though - we’re continually looking to find new ways to promote Medway, and as we carry on pushing for regeneration and investment, there’s no reason why numbers can’t soon exceed pre-pandemic figures.”
A remarkable recovery
Visit Kent Chief Executive, Deirdre Wells OBE, commented: "This remarkable recovery in Kent's tourism sector highlights the resilience and adaptability of our industry. Reaching 99% of pre-pandemic visitor volumes, and generating £4.1 billion in revenue, demonstrates the vital role tourism plays in driving economic growth, supporting over 77,000 jobs, and showcasing Kent as a premier destination for visitors from near and far.”
To access the full Medway Economic Impact Study 2023 report please visit: www.visitkent.co.uk