Britain's foremost museums, galleries, heritage sites, cathedrals, gardens, zoos and theme parks have had a booming summer, according to the latest figures.

According to the Association of Leading Visitor Attractions, UK visitor figures between May 1 and August 31 rose 3.4 per cent compared to the same period in 2008. The majority of attractions also reported a rise in both retail and catering spend overall.

The combined effects of the credit crunch and the promise of a warm summer meant a record number of Britons opted for a 'staycation' this year rather than holidaying abroad.

When asked in February 2009, 60 per cent of ALVA members predicted that visitor numbers would either stay the same or rise during the summer months, with many preparing for this increase by offering new family-friendly activities, good quality, added-value packages and unique experiences.

Moreover, despite overseas visitor figures falling by nine per cent during the early months of 2009, many attractions have reported a rise in foreign visitor figures during the summer months.

Robin Broke, director of ALVA, said: "It is most reassuring to see that the 'staycation' trend predicted by ALVA's members has translated into profitable business as it is vital for Britain that our tourism industry thrives, allowing it to maintain employment opportunities across all skill levels and to provide economic growth."