Full STEAM ahead for Bradford district as visitor economy surpasses £1 billion for the first time

Bradford's visitor economy has exceeded the £1 billion mark for the first time, with the latest STEAM report revealing a record-breaking £1.08 billion economic impact in 2025.

STEAM, the recognised UK tourism economic impact model, shows that Bradford district welcomed 12.13 million visitors in 2025, generating £1.08 billion for the local economy and supporting 8,857 full-time equivalent (FTE) jobs across the district.

The milestone marks a significant moment for Bradford, demonstrating the growing contribution that tourism, culture, events and hospitality are making to economic growth, employment and investment. The figures also provide an encouraging early indicator of the positive impact of Bradford 2025 UK City of Culture, ahead of the programme's full independent evaluation.

Bradford Council’s Executive Member for Economy, Regeneration and Planning, Cllr Andrew Judson, said: “Breaking the £1 billion mark for the first time is a landmark moment for the Bradford district. These figures show that investment in culture, events and the visitor economy is delivering real benefits for the district and that we really are open for business.

“Bringing more people into our towns and city centres creates opportunities for local businesses to thrive, which in supports thousands of jobs. We're focused on building on this momentum and ensuring Bradford continues to grow as a destination to live, work, invest and visit."

The results reinforce Bradford's growing reputation as a visitor destination and demonstrate the increasing importance of the visitor economy in supporting local businesses, creating jobs and attracting investment across the district.

Key findings from the 2025 STEAM report include:

• £1.08 billion total economic impact – the first time Bradford's visitor economy has exceeded the £1 billion milestone.
• 12.13 million visitors welcomed across the district.
• 10.6 million day visits, generating £719 million for the local economy.
• 3.79 million staying visitor days, contributing £362 million in economic impact.
• 1.53 million visitors staying overnight in the district for holidays or short breaks.
• 8,857 FTE jobs supported by the visitor economy.

Rebecca Fitzgerald, president of Bradford Chamber of Commerce, said: “This milestone is a fantastic achievement for the district and testimony to the breadth of what the Bradford region has to offer.

“Whether it is the museums and cultural attractions, the breathtaking countryside that surrounds us and or the wonderful taste of our food and drink offering, there is no mistaking that this is a special place and one people wish to experience in growing numbers.”

The report highlights continued growth across both day and staying visitors. Day visits increased by 12.3% compared with 2024, while visitors staying in un-serviced accommodation rose by 15.6%. This increase coincided with Bradford 2025 UK City of Culture's partnership with Airbnb as its official accommodation provider, reflecting growing demand for overnight stays and a broader range of visitor accommodation.

The VisitBradford team will now work closely with the West Yorkshire Local Visitor Economy Partnership (LVEP) to maximise opportunities arising from the regional announcement, alongside the West Yorkshire Combined Authority.