Wales is well known for its picturesque countryside, historic landmarks, and friendly and welcoming residents. But in the last few years, the entertainment industry has proven itself to be a significant driver of tourism and economic growth for the country. With that in mind, we’ll go through a few ways in which tourism in Wales has grown thanks to the entertainment industry.
Set-jetting
Set-jetting, travelling to destinations featured in a movie or series, has become a popular trend among explorers. Numerous popular productions including Doctor Who, Sherlock, and Sex Education have used areas of Wales as filming locations, showcasing the country’s stunning landscapes and charming villages.
Fans of these shows travel from all over the world to get a glimpse of where their favourite characters have been and Wales is reaping the benefits of this.
Live entertainment
Wales is home to several popular music festivals, such as Green Man, held in Brecon Beacons, and several theatre performances at Cardiff’s Wales Millennium Centre. These live events attract thousands of tourists every year and are successfully supporting local economies by increasing the demand for accommodation, dining, and transport during the events.
Influences from online entertainment
The increase in online gambling has sparked an interest in places where tourists can experience this form of entertainment in person. Now many of those visiting Wales, particularly among younger audiences, have been drawn in by venues offering leisure activities such as interactive arcades. People who typically spin for real money on digital slot machines can now also experience the thrill of these online games in the real world in a socially engaging environment.
Support from the Welsh government
The Welsh government understands the value that the entertainment industry has for both residents and the economy. This is why they are highly proactive when it comes to investing in and supporting the Welsh entertainment industry.
By endorsing creative productions, using initiatives such as Creative Wales, they are able to leverage the power of the entertainment industry to ensure Wales remains an appealing and competitive destination in the UK.
Welsh entertainment attracts people from all over the world
The entertainment sector in Wales continues to flourish and with it, local economies and national identities are strengthened. As the entertainment industry continues to grow, its role in attracting tourists will become increasingly important in proving that Wales has more to offer than just castles and countryside.
