Latest figures reveal that the value of tourism in West Lindsey was worth £133.26 million during 2018. The figures were revealed in the most recent STEAM report (a measurement of tourism), which showed an increase of 5.3 per cent from 2017.

West Lindsey is a district full of character and history with a variety of places to visit all year round. You’ll find picturesque villages and delightful hidden gems from the exquisite Gainsborough Old Hall to the untouched landscape of the Lincolnshire Wolds AONB. Faye Pudney, West Lindsey District Council’s Visitor Economy Officer said:

“Whether you’re a history hunter or looking to explore the great outdoors, there’s plenty to see and do in the district and these figures confirm this with 3.09 million visitors coming to West Lindsey during 2018. 

“The visitor economy is vitally important to West Lindsey and with the 400th anniversary of the Mayflower coming up next year, we’re looking forward to inviting more visitors, both locally and internationally to the district.

“We are strengthening our partnerships with Visit Lincoln and Love Lincolnshire Wolds to expand the visitor offer.”

The news, has been welcomed by Cllr Paul Howitt-Cowan, member champion for tourism at West Lindsey District Council. He commented:

“Visitors play a vital role in supporting more than 1,784 full time equivalent jobs locally. We have a number of great places to visit, so I am not surprised that we attracted more than 3 million visitors to West Lindsey in 2018.

“Our three historic market towns Caistor, Market Rasen and Gainsborough are all rich in heritage. And the launch of the commemorative year of the sailing of the Mayflower – I anticipate more visitors will follow.

“We also have the wonderful Lincolnshire Wolds – an area of outstanding natural beauty, right here in the district. So whether you want to enjoy a walking or cycling holiday or sit back and soak up the sights – I am sure there is something for everyone to enjoy.” 

The STEAM (Scarborough Tourism Economic Assessment Model) report quantifies the local economic impact of tourism, from both staying and day visitors, through analysis and use of a variety of inputs including visitor attraction numbers, tourist accommodation bedstock, visitor expenditure levels, transport use levels and tourism-specific economic multipliers. 

The report also revealed: 

• 2.24 million tourism visits were made by day visitors generating £84.95 million for the local economy. 
• Shopping and Food and Drink spend are particularly important, with these two categories accounting for 41.4% of all direct visitor expenditure.
• Visitors staying in the area as a part of a holiday or short break accounted for approximately 226 thousand visits and 849 thousand nights in local accommodation. In total staying visitors generate a total economic impact of £48.3 million for local businesses and communities with £5.25 million being spent on local accommodation, staying 3.6 nights on average.