TRIPS to Wales last year were up by 11 per cent compared to 2015, while spending on trips to the country increased by eight per cent.

Figures published by the Office for National Statistics (ONS) yesterday also showed there were more than one million international visits to Wales in 2016, the first time since 2008.

The news comes as leaders from the tourism industry in Wales and the UK have gathered for a tourism summit, organised by Visit Wales, to discuss future trends and challenges for the industry.

Ken Skates, economy secretary, said: “The tourism industry in Wales is in very good shape. And the fact that we saw record breaking spend from overseas visitors last year and crossed the million visitors for the first time in eight years is excellent news.

“We fully recognise how competitive the market is and the challenges facing the industry. Our future vision – especially in light of the EU Referendum result – is to do more again to build on this sense of confidence and to internationalise our reputation and approach.”