VisitBritain says it's too early to asses impact of riots on inbound tourism

It is too early to anticipate the effect on inbound tourism as a result of the riots in London and other key cities around the UK, according to VisitBritain.

Patricia Yates, director of strategy and communications at VisitBritain, said that Britain has a strong and positive image overseas and hopes that the incidents of the past three nights will be short-lived and that tourism will show its customary resilience.

"It is important to recognise that these isolated incidents are occurring away from key visitor attractions around the UK," she said.

"Transport services, including inbound flights, are all running a good service and major tourist attractions across London and the rest of Britain remain open and unaffected, meaning international visitors can continue to enjoy the UK as per usual.

"We have not had any queries or issues via our online shop or at the Britain and the London Visitor Centre on Regent Street. The BLVC continues to offer advice to tourists on what they can see and do around Britain and the capital."

London restaurants come under attack by rioters >>

Wetherspoons closes 15-20 London pubs as rioters destroy Great Harry in Woolwich >>

Interactive map of areas affected by rioters >>

By Janet Harmer

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