UK Music Tourism Hits Record £10 Billion in 2024: Study
The UK’s music industry has struck a triumphant note in 2024 as new data reveals that music tourism has hit an all-time high, generating an astounding £10 billion for the economy. The record-breaking figure was unveiled in a study commissioned by UK Music, the umbrella organization representing the collective interests of the UK’s music industry. The report underscores the ever-growing power of live performances and cultural experiences in shaping both the country’s global image and economic trajectory.
A Booming Industry with Global Appeal
According to the detailed study, the surge in revenues came from millions of domestic and international tourists who traveled across the UK to attend music festivals, gigs, and other live performances. This represents a significant jump from previous years, signaling a strong post-pandemic recovery and a vibrant appetite for musical experiences.
The report found that more than 15 million music tourists visited the UK in 2024 — a 20% increase from 2023. These visitors not only bought concert tickets but also spent generously on travel, accommodation, food, merchandise, and local attractions. The ripple effects of their spending were felt throughout the economy, boosting local businesses and creating tens of thousands of jobs.
“This year has proven just how essential UK music is to our cultural and economic identity,” said Tom Kiehl, Interim Chief Executive of UK Music. “From Glastonbury and Reading to intimate gigs in Glasgow pubs or Liverpool’s iconic Cavern Club, the UK is a global stage for unforgettable music experiences.”
London Still Reigns, but Other Cities Rise
While London continues to attract the lion’s share of music tourists with major venues like The O2 Arena, Wembley Stadium, and Royal Albert Hall, other UK cities are rapidly emerging as must-visit music hubs. Manchester, often dubbed the UK’s “second music city,” saw a significant spike in tourism driven by performances from globally renowned artists and its legendary venues like the AO Arena and Albert Hall.
Liverpool, already enshrined in music history thanks to The Beatles, continued to draw visitors with its curated heritage tours and music festivals. Meanwhile, Glasgow, Birmingham, and Bristol all reported double-digit growth in music tourism in 2024.
These regional cities have benefitted not only from iconic performances but also from government-backed initiatives to revive high streets and promote local talent. Councils and cultural organizations have invested in grassroots music venues, helping to build a diverse and sustainable ecosystem for UK music fans and artists alike.
Festivals Fuel the Frenzy
One of the most influential forces behind this economic boom has been the UK’s internationally renowned music festivals. Glastonbury Festival alone attracted over 200,000 people and contributed more than £200 million to the local Somerset economy. Other high-profile festivals like Isle of Wight, Creamfields, Wireless, and TRNSMT in Glasgow each made significant contributions to their host communities.
These festivals didn’t just showcase popular global acts — they also provided a platform for emerging UK talent. This is in line with UK Music’s strategy of nurturing new artists while amplifying the UK’s reputation as a world-class music destination.
International Visitors Return in Droves
Post-Brexit and post-COVID uncertainties had cast a shadow over international tourism in previous years. But 2024 brought a resurgence. Visitors from the EU, USA, Australia, and Japan accounted for over 5 million of the total music tourists in the UK this year. These international fans often combined their love of UK music with broader cultural sightseeing, injecting money into local tourism industries.
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The average international music tourist spent £1,200 during their stay — more than double the domestic average. From boutique hotels in Edinburgh to hip record shops in Brighton, these visitors created a powerful economic chain reaction.
Jobs and Opportunities
The surge in music tourism has also translated into job creation. According to the study, over 125,000 jobs in the UK are now directly supported by music tourism — from event organizers and sound engineers to hotel staff and local food vendors. This has had a particularly strong impact in towns and smaller cities where large-scale events may be limited, but independent venues thrive.
“Music tourism is a lifeline for many local communities,” said Culture Secretary Lucy Frazer. “The industry doesn’t just bring in billions — it brings people together, showcases the UK’s diversity, and inspires the next generation of musicians.”
Government Support and Challenges Ahead
To sustain this growth, UK Music is calling for increased investment in the live music sector and better support for grassroots venues, many of which still struggle with rising costs, licensing restrictions, and infrastructure issues. The organization has also recommended visa reforms to make it easier for international artists and fans to access the UK music scene.
There are also calls for improved transportation options to and from rural music festivals, which would not only improve the visitor experience but also reduce environmental impacts.
The government has responded with a £25 million cultural tourism recovery fund, some of which will be allocated to enhancing the music tourism experience — including infrastructure improvements, grants for local music venues, and the creation of a UK Music Tourism Council to coordinate national efforts.
The Global Legacy of UK Music
The UK has long been known for producing world-renowned artists, from The Beatles, Adele, and David Bowie to Stormzy, Ed Sheeran, and Dua Lipa. The global fascination with UK music is deeply rooted in its historic innovation and diversity — and now, it’s paying dividends economically like never before.
UK Music’s report not only celebrates the remarkable achievements of 2024 but also acts as
