Inbound travellers to the UK spent a record £21 billion last year, up 13% on levels achieved in 2012.
This came as the number of visits from overseas rose by 6% to 32.89 million, exceeding the previous record of 32.78 million set in 2007.
The growth was largely driven by a particularly strong summer and early autumn, with annual holiday trips hitting record levels – 7% above 2012 and 6% above the previous record from 2011, according to VisitBritain.
Business and visiting friends and relations (VFR) visits both saw their best year since 2008, with business visits up 7% and VFR up 5% on 2012.
Last year also saw record visits for a calendar year from typically high spending countries outside Europe and North America with 10% more arrivals.
VisitBritain chief executive Sandie Dawe said: “Not only have we managed to surpass the £20 billon barrier for the very first time, but we’ve broken records for holidaymakers and visitors from key growth markets such as China and South Korea.
“Our international tourists are starting to see and do more across the country, which tells us that our GREAT campaign is not only working, but influencing travel too. Holiday figures are up across the whole of Britain with robust growth for Scotland, Wales, the rest of England and London.
“Every pound invested in our tourism marketing results in visitors spending £19 in this country. The financial benefits from inbound tourism are clear for everyone to see.”
Tourism minister Helen Grant said: “Overseas visitors spent more in Britain than ever before last year and that shows our tourism strategy is working.
“With nearly £21 billion spent, it also demonstrates the significant contribution the tourism industry is making to the country’s economic recovery.
“We will continue to support the sector and promote Britain to the world as a great place to visit and do business with.”