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It's boomtime for free museums during the recession
Danny Brierley26.02.09
MUSEUMS are soaring in popularity during the economic downturn as free entry and the weakening pound attract more people.
The 10 most visited UK attractions last year were in London, with the British Museum pulling in almost six million - a rise of almost 10 per cent. The museum has mostly free entry but its fee-charging exhibitions also pull in huge numbers. Displays on the Roman emperor Hadrian attracted 255,000 visitors. A free exhibition of works by American painters including Jackson Pollock was seen by 350,000.
Tate Modern saw a six per cent fall, but with almost five million visits was the second most popular attraction in the UK. More than half of Britain's museums increased revenue from sales in shops and hospitality last year, according to the Association of Leading Visitor Attractions.
Predictions for this year are more upbeat than in other parts of the economy. Almost half the attractions believe they will be unaffected and 18 per cent expect more visitors.
More favourable exchange rates for foreign tourists have helped to swell the number of overseas visitors and 28 per cent expect to see more this year.
Association director Robin Brooke said: "British holidaymakers have the opportunity to discover the treasures on their doorsteps, enjoy terrific value, benefit from a strong exhibitions programme and support the local economy."
Reader views (6)
Some museums were always free; come to the wonderful William Morris Gallery in Walthamstow, and see the works of a man who was not only a great artist but a foremost political thinker as well. It's suffered for years from underfunding and understaffing, but it's still a gem, and deserves to be widely known.
- Mdj E10, london, uk
I hated going to museums as a youngster,and that was over thirty years ago now."
Fortunately kids aren't as boring as you, these days Steve. And museums are much more interactive and hands-on. I can't imagine you in a trench or using a computer-animated food chain
- Keith Price, Luton, England
Kids aren't interested in all that stuff.God knows I hated going to museums as a youngster,and that was over thirty years ago now.
The internet is all they seem to want these days.
- Steve, London
Free museums andd aglleries is one of the greatest legacies of this Labour Government. Well done Gordon and Tony
- Keith Price, Luton, England
Who whinges that there is nothing for kids to do?! Britain is packed with places. My vote goes the Science Museum as the best place for all age groups of one family - and it's free - and unlike most museums the shop is packed with so many fabulous gadgets it's hard to choose what NOT to buy - and all incredibly educational. Compare that with Chessington World of Adventures where you're into 3 figures if you take 2 grandparents and one toddler . . .
- Roz, Chamonix, France
When parents start whingeing that there is nothing for kids to do etc... Maybe they should get off their backsides and take the kids out for the day for free. It will keep them off the streets and maybe they might learn something as well. There is so much to do and see in London which dosn't involve spending huge amounts of money.
- Triffidqueen, Desk in London
