UCI Cycling World Championships and Banksy exhibition spark massive growth in visitor numbers and spending in Glasgow

Visitors spent £2.35 billion in Glasgow in 2023, almost 50% (48.6%) more than in 2022.

Article Source: Glasgow Life
Last Updated: 25 September 2024 15:00

Image Credit: Glasgow Life

Scottish Tourism Economic Impact Model (STEAM) data for 2023 also shows a huge rise in overnight visitors to the city.

A total of 3.91 million visitors stayed in Glasgow overnight, up from 2.65 million the previous year. This is a 47.3% increase, with people staying 2.5 nights on average.

Day visitor numbers are also up from 17.69 million in 2022 to 21.8 million. The total number of people visiting Glasgow increased by 26.6% to 25.75 million in 2023.

The figures emphasise the positive impact tourism continues to have on Glasgow’s economy. In 2023, tourism supported 37,117 local full-time jobs, up from 28,840 in 2022.

The supported jobs are across a range of areas, including food and drink, transport, shopping, and accommodation.

Visitor numbers and spending have been significantly boosted by Glasgow hosting the first-ever UCI Cycling World Championships. The event attracted over 500,000 spectators and 8,000 athletes to the city.

People from all over the world also travelled to Glasgow to experience street artist Banksy’s first solo exhibition in 14 years.

More than 180,000 people visited Cut & Run at Glasgow's Gallery of Modern Art, which broke box office records.

Susan Deighan, Chief Executive of Glasgow Life, said: “Glasgow continues to grow as a successful and popular tourism destination. More people are choosing to visit Glasgow and experience everything our dynamic and vibrant city has to offer. Whether that is our world-class museums, our spectacular programme of events and festivals, our thriving food and drink scene or concerts at one of the city’s iconic music venues.

“These figures also highlight the importance of hosting major events and attracting unique exhibitions to the city. Visitor numbers and spending were boosted significantly by the hugely successful UCI Cycling World Championships and the unforgettable Banksy Cut & Run show at the Gallery of Modern Art. The data also emphasises the vital role tourism plays in Glasgow’s economy and how it benefits Glaswegians.”

VisitScotland’s Regional Director for Glasgow City Region, Lynne Cooper said: “Last year was very positive for international visitors coming to Scotland. Our research shows Glasgow attracts large numbers of holidaymakers from overseas markets, who stay longer and spend more.

“The fantastic variety of museums and art galleries, buildings and architecture, heritage attractions, events, as well as food and drinks experiences encourage new and returning visitors to the city.

“Working with local tourism partners and industry, we are using our channels to promote Glasgow as a year-round destination and help businesses capitalise on the demand for the world class cultural offering here.”

Stuart Patrick, CEO, Glasgow Chamber of Commerce, said: “It is encouraging to see data that highlights the growing appeal of our city to visitors. We are particularly pleased by the increase in direct visitor spending, as this is the driving force behind tourism in Glasgow, supporting both job creation and our economy. To fully capture this spend, we must offer a world-class visitor experience that presents our city in the best possible way. Achieving this requires continued investment and collaboration on initiatives that enhance the city centre, making it a destination where people truly want to spend their time.”

The majority of overnight visitors (80%) stayed in serviced accommodation such as hotels, apartments and bed and breakfasts.

Most people took advantage of the increased number of hotels in the city. Five hotels opened in Glasgow in 2021 and four in 2022, increasing room capacity by more than 1,500.

Serviced accommodation stays were up 69.4% on 2022, from 1.85 million people to 3.14 million.

Janice Fisher, General Manager at Novotel-Ibis Glasgow City Centre and Co-Chair of the Greater Glasgow Hoteliers Association, said: “Our members are always delighted to support our incredible city in its drive to welcome visitors from everywhere and this data underpins how important this sector continues to be in our future growth.”

The growth in Glasgow’s visitor numbers is positive news for the whole country as Glasgow is a gateway to the rest of Scotland.

The city’s wide range of accommodation and transport links makes it an ideal base for exploring the beautiful landscapes and heritage of the surrounding regions.

Andy Cliffe, Chief Executive of AGS Airports, said: “Glasgow has a well-earned and global reputation for successfully hosting major events, exhibitions and conferences. These figures not only reinforce the importance of continually securing such events; they clearly demonstrate their draw for domestic and international visitors. It is really important we build on this and further elevate Glasgow’s international standing, as doing so will play a key role in attracting airlines which will in turn bring further visitors to our city region.”

Glasgow had a successful year for conferences, hosting over 360 meetings that attracted more than 120,000 delegates.

The city is a trusted and popular destination for a variety of national and international associations.

Got a story to share? Send us an email at hello[@]whatsonnetwork.co.uk

Latest Glasgow News

Braehead Shopping Centre launches new sportswear brand, Castore

Braehead Shopping Centre announces the opening of leading British performance sportswear brand, Castore.

Captain Fantastic supports Dyslexia Scotland Awareness Week

Captain Fantastic, the UK's leading children's party company, is supporting Dyslexia Awareness Week in Scotland with two fun interactive online parties.

Fall into Autumn Celebrations at Apple events across Scotland

The National Trust for Scotland is celebrating autumn harvest by inviting people to its annual Apple events across the country.

Lost Shore Surf Resort announces a Unique Festive Experience

Make waves this Christmas with Lost Shore’s Festive Dining Experience, an indoor winter wonderland with fire pit drinks, sharing menu, festive cocktail offering and option for surf lessons.

Much loved panto legends to return for Peter Pan

The King's Theatre is delighted to welcome the return of much-loved panto legends, Elaine C Smith as Mrs Smee and Johnny Mac as Smee in this year's high-flying pantomime adventure, Peter Pan!

Topgolf and SEGA of America partner to launch exclusive new Sonic the Hedgehog Game at Topgolf Glasgow

The Multiyear Partnership Includes New Game and Special Offers at Topgolf Glasgow.

East Meets West at Six by Nico

Renowned for its culinary storytelling and immersive dining experiences, Six by Nico has unveiled its latest themed menu, Istanbul!

UCI Cycling World Championships and Banksy exhibition spark massive growth in visitor numbers and spending in Glasgow

Visitors spent £2.35 billion in Glasgow in 2023, almost 50% (48.6%) more than in 2022.

Specsavers Scottish Music Awards returns to The Barrowland Ballroom for 2024

With Scottish legends Lulu and Travis, Dundee's own Kyle Falconer and rising Scots star Calum Bowie among the first winners to be announced.

In Drinks Glasgow Launches 2025 Show

In-Drinks Glasgow, Scotland's largest trade show for the drinks sector, is set to bring together the wide-ranging hospitality and licensed trade sector for a two-day celebration across the city.

Elements launch an exclusive four course lunch and premium drinks offering to showcase its signature, namesake cocktails

From September 26th Elements, Glasgow's newest fine-dining restaurant is offering an exclusive opportunity to enjoy a decadent four-course lunch accompanied by four premium cocktails.

Grant funding delivered to Glasgow charities by Buchanan Galleries

Buchanan Galleries has awarded another £8,000 in funding to five local charities and organisations in and around Glasgow over the past six months.

Frightful fun in store at Dobbies this Halloween

Dobbies Garden Centres is welcoming kids across the country to its Little Scare-lings Howl-o-ween party this October for a frightfully fun time!

All go for World Gaelic Week 2025

Seachdain na Gàidhlig has unveiled dates for its fourth edition under the theme Ceanglaichean gun Chrìch, which signifies Building Connections in English.

With 100 days to go, the year long Glasgow 850 programme announced

With just 100 days to go until Glasgow starts its yearlong birthday celebration, details have been announced on what people can get involved in throughout 2025.

Guide Dogs seeks new volunteers in Glasgow: Make a difference in your community!

Guide Dogs is calling on the caring, community-minded people of Glasgow to join their mission in helping people living with sight loss to live the life they choose.

Local people benefitting from Elder Park Library and Community Hub refurbishment

The £4 million restoration of Glasgow's Elder Park Library has been hailed by its local community.

Garden Centre rolls out series of free events this October

Dobbies Garden Centres is embracing the autumn season with a series of free-to-attend events throughout October, including Grow How, Little Seedlings Club and Little Seedlings Holiday Club.

Scottish groups receive funding from Asda Foundation to transform community spaces

Asda's charity, The Asda Foundation, has awarded £150,000 to eight community groups across Scotland through its Investing in Spaces and Places grants.

The countdown is on... six weeks to go until Rocky Horror takes over The Pavilion Theatre Glasgow

The countdown is officially on! Anticipation is building for the return of the most thrilling, campy, and downright outrageous event of the year; The Rocky Horror Show!

STUDIOCANAL announces Paddington is set to visit Scotland

Statues of everyone's favourite bear will be taking a seat in locations across the UK and Ireland in early October!

Is the IRN BRU Carnival in your future

Tickets for this year's IRN-BRU Carnival launch with the chance to win on Glasgow's streets!

Monster Jam Ramped Up roars into Glasgow for the first time with the all new Monstergon

The most adrenaline-charged and full-throttle family fun experience arrives at OVO Hydro this weekend!

Sole Club Glasgow introduces bold new dining concepts

After a creative and exciting six months since its inception, Sole Club will launch two new culinary experiences from 27th September.

Asda invites customers across Scotland to donate pre loved books for kids

Asda invites customers across Scotland to donate pre-loved children's books for onward gifting to families who have fewer books of their own.

Final Countdown: One month left to enter photography competition

Time is running out to enter Caledonian Sleeper's photography competition aimed at encouraging everyone to capture views of the most scenic locations on route between Scotland and London.

Students can get their hands on gig tickets, meal vouchers and more with the Gumball Gig Machine

King Tut's and Gigs in Scotland, are teaming up to inspire a new generation of music fans in the city, offering students gig tickets and free entry to some of Glasgow's coolest experiences!

Glory for Scots speakers at national awards

The winners of the Scots Language Awards 2024 were crowned on Saturday at a celebratory ceremony in Ayrshire.

Over 900 supporters and their teddy bears took part in a charity walk at the weekend

On Saturday, more than 900 supporters and their teddy bears took to the streets of Glasgow for Kami Bear's Teddy Trail, raising vital funds for Glasgow Children's Hospital Charity.