Home » TOURISM NEWS » Wales Set to Join Edinburgh, Manchester, Glasgow, Aberdeen, Liverpool, and More in UK as It Introduces New Tourist Tax to Promote Sustainable Tourism, Everything You Need to Know
Published on
September 29, 2025
By: Rana Pratap
Wales introduces a £1.30 per night visitor levy in 2027 to tackle overtourism and promote sustainable, joining Edinburgh, Manchester, Glasgow, Aberdeen, and Liverpool in implementing a new tourist tax. This initiative is a response to the growing pressures that increasing visitor numbers place on local infrastructure, public services, and the environment. The levy will apply to all overnight stays, including hotels, campsites, and short-term rentals, ensuring that tourists contribute to the maintenance and enhancement of the region’s public spaces. Funds raised will be reinvested in local services such as street cleaning, waste management, and preservation of cultural and natural attractions. By adopting this measure, Wales aims to strike a balance between fostering tourism growth and safeguarding its heritage for future generations, ensuring a sustainable and thriving tourism model.
Wales Introduces Tourist Tax to Boost Local Economy and Sustainable TourismWhat Is the Visitor Levy?
In 2027, Wales will introduce a tourist tax, known as the visitor levy, designed to alleviate the pressure of overtourism on local infrastructure. This levy will apply to overnight stays across the country, with rates based on the type of accommodation. Campsites and hostels will charge 75p per person per night, while hotels and holiday cottages will charge £1.30 per person per night.
Who Will Pay the Levy?
The visitor levy will affect tourists staying in commercial accommodation, including hotels, hostels, and holiday cottages. For example, a family of four staying at a campsite for a week will pay £10.50, while the same family in a hotel will pay £36.30.
Exemptions to the Visitor Levy
To ensure fairness, certain groups will be exempt from the levy:
- Children under 18 staying in campsites or shared hostel rooms.
- Individuals staying in temporary housing, emergency accommodations, or for more than 31 nights.
These exemptions are designed to protect vulnerable groups, including long-term residents and people in temporary or emergency housing.
Why Is Wales Introducing the Tax?
The tourist tax aims to tackle the challenges posed by overtourism by generating funds to support essential local services. This will include funding for:
- Street cleaning and waste management.
- Public toilets and other tourism infrastructure.
- Preservation of cultural and natural sites.
By investing these funds back into the local community, the tax will ensure that the region remains both sustainable and attractive for future visitors.
How Will the Levy Be Collected?
Local councils across Wales will have the flexibility to administer the levy, tailoring it to the tourism needs of their area. Accommodation providers must register with the Welsh Revenue Authority (WRA) to ensure proper collection of the tax. Penalties will apply for non-compliance, ranging from £100 to £5,000 depending on the amount owed.
When Will the Levy Be Introduced?
The levy is set to take effect in 2027, but local councils will begin consultations in the coming months to assess how it should be implemented. Once consultations are complete, businesses will be given at least 12 months’ notice before the levy is enforced, allowing ample time for preparation.
How Does Wales’ Tax Compare to Europe?
Wales’s visitor levy is relatively modest compared to similar taxes across Europe. For example, in the Balearic Islands of Spain, tourist taxes can range from €2.5 to €6 per person per night. In contrast, Wales’s 75p to £1.30 per night levy is more affordable, maintaining the country’s competitive appeal as a tourist destination.
What Will the Funds Be Used For?
The funds raised through the levy will be reinvested in tourism infrastructure, including:
- Enhancing public spaces.
- Supporting tourism-related services and preserving natural and cultural sites.
This will help Wales maintain its status as a sustainable tourism destination.
A Balanced Approach to Tourism
The tourist tax in Wales is a key step towards managing sustainable tourism. It ensures that the benefits of tourism are shared equitably with local communities, while maintaining the quality of services and infrastructure for both residents and visitors. As Wales joins other cities in the UK introducing similar measures, this levy marks a progressive move toward responsible tourism for the future.
Edinburgh Introduces Tourist Tax to Fund City Improvements and Sustainable TourismWhat Is Edinburgh’s Visitor Levy?
Edinburgh will introduce a 5% visitor levy starting in 2026, which will apply to all overnight stays in the city. The levy is designed to help fund tourism-related services and improve infrastructure that supports the growing number of visitors. The rate will be 5% of the accommodation cost, providing a steady flow of funds for city maintenance and tourism initiatives.
Who Will Pay the Levy?
This levy will affect all tourists staying in commercial accommodations within the city, including hotels, hostels, and holiday rentals. For example, if a hotel stay costs £100 per night, the visitor levy would be an additional £5 per night.
Exemptions to the Visitor Levy
Certain groups will be exempt from paying the levy:
- Children under 18.
- Long-term stays of more than 31 nights.
- Individuals staying in temporary housing.
These exemptions are designed to ensure that vulnerable groups are not unfairly impacted by the tax.
Why Is Edinburgh Introducing the Tax?
The tourist tax is a response to the challenges posed by overtourism, which has placed a strain on the city’s public services and infrastructure. Edinburgh is a world-renowned destination, attracting millions of visitors each year, and the funds from the levy will be used to:
- Maintain public spaces.
- Improve tourism infrastructure.
- Fund environmental initiatives that preserve the city’s heritage.
The aim is to make tourism in Edinburgh more sustainable by directing the revenue back into the city’s infrastructure, ensuring that it continues to thrive while maintaining its character.
How Will the Levy Be Collected?
Accommodation providers will be required to register with the city authorities to collect the levy from guests. The levy will be added to the total accommodation cost, making it easy for tourists to understand the tax they are paying.
When Will the Levy Be Introduced?
The visitor levy will be implemented starting 2026, following consultations with businesses and residents. Edinburgh’s local authorities are expected to provide at least 12 months’ notice before the levy takes effect, allowing businesses to prepare for the changes.
How Does Edinburgh’s Levy Compare to Other Cities?
Edinburgh’s 5% levy is similar to the tourist taxes being introduced in cities like Manchester and Glasgow, which are also adopting measures to manage tourism growth and ensure sustainability. Compared to other European destinations, such as Barcelona, where taxes can reach €3 per person per night, Edinburgh’s rate is competitive and designed to be affordable for visitors.
What Will the Funds Be Used For?
The funds raised through the visitor levy will be directed towards:
- Improving tourist facilities.
- Environmental projects to preserve the city’s unique landmarks.
- Supporting local communities and improving public infrastructure.
This ensures that the benefits of tourism are not only felt by the businesses in the city but also contribute to the broader sustainability of the destination.
A Step Towards Sustainable Tourism in Edinburgh
The introduction of the tourist tax in Edinburgh marks a responsible step toward balancing the demands of tourism with the needs of the local community. The revenue generated will help ensure that the city can continue to offer a high-quality experience for visitors while maintaining its historic charm and cultural significance. As tourism continues to grow, Edinburgh is positioning itself as a leader in sustainable tourism, setting a positive example for other cities to follow.
Manchester Rolls Out Tourist Tax to Support City Infrastructure and Sustainable GrowthWhat Is Manchester’s Visitor Levy?
Manchester will implement a £1 per night tourist tax starting in 2023 as part of its initiative to support local tourism infrastructure. The tax will apply to all overnight stays in the city, including hotels, hostels, and short-term rental properties. This tax aims to generate much-needed revenue for the city’s public services and tourism-related infrastructure.
Who Will Pay the Levy?
The visitor levy will apply to anyone staying in commercial accommodation in Manchester. Whether you’re in a hotel, guesthouse, or a short-term rental, the £1 per night charge will be added to your accommodation bill. For example, if your hotel stay costs £100 per night, you will pay an additional £1 towards the visitor levy.
Exemptions to the Visitor Levy
Some groups will be exempt from paying the visitor levy:
- Children under 18.
- Long-term residents staying for over 31 nights.
- Temporary housing residents.
These exemptions ensure that vulnerable individuals and long-term residents are not burdened by the tax.
Why Is Manchester Introducing the Tax?
Manchester’s decision to introduce the tourist tax stems from the increasing pressure of overtourism. As one of the UK’s most visited cities, Manchester faces challenges in maintaining its public spaces, tourism infrastructure, and environmental protection efforts. The funds raised from the levy will be used to:
- Support public services like waste management and street cleaning.
- Enhance tourism infrastructure, ensuring visitors have a safe and enjoyable experience.
- Contribute to environmental projects and the preservation of heritage sites.
This levy will ensure that tourism revenue is reinvested into the city, benefiting both tourists and the local community.
How Will the Levy Be Collected?
Accommodation providers in Manchester will be responsible for collecting the visitor levy from guests. They will need to register with the local authorities to ensure proper tax collection. The levy will be added to the total cost of accommodation, making it clear to visitors that the charge is part of their stay.
When Will the Levy Be Introduced?
Manchester’s visitor levy came into effect in 2023. Accommodation providers began collecting the tax from that point, ensuring that revenue would immediately support local infrastructure and services. This swift introduction has helped businesses adjust while ensuring that the levy contributes to the city’s sustainability efforts.
How Does Manchester’s Levy Compare to Other UK Cities?
The £1 per night levy in Manchester is relatively modest compared to the tourist taxes implemented in cities like Glasgow and Edinburgh, where 5% charges are being considered. However, Manchester’s tax is still designed to make a significant impact on the city’s ability to fund infrastructure improvements without imposing a heavy burden on visitors.
What Will the Funds Be Used For?
The funds raised by Manchester’s visitor levy will be used to:
- Enhance tourism facilities and local infrastructure.
- Fund environmental initiatives and sustainable tourism practices.
- Ensure that the city’s public spaces remain clean, accessible, and welcoming.
This allocation will ensure that the growing demand for tourism is met without compromising the city’s long-term sustainability.
Manchester Leads the Way in Sustainable Tourism
With the introduction of the visitor levy, Manchester is taking a proactive approach to manage the challenges of overtourism. By investing the tax revenue into public services and sustainability initiatives, the city is not only enhancing its tourism experience but also ensuring that the benefits of tourism are shared equitably with its residents. As Manchester continues to grow as a top UK destination, its visitor levy will play a crucial role in maintaining its vibrancy and sustainability.
Glasgow Introduces Tourist Tax to Fund City Improvements and Enhance Sustainable TourismWhat Is Glasgow’s Visitor Levy?
Starting in 2027, Glasgow will introduce a 5% visitor levy on all overnight stays in the city. The levy will apply to accommodations such as hotels, hostels, and short-term rentals, aiming to generate revenue to support the city’s tourism infrastructure and improve local public services. With this new levy, Glasgow follows the footsteps of other UK cities like Edinburgh and Manchester in promoting sustainable tourism.
Who Will Pay the Levy?
The visitor levy will be applied to all tourists staying in commercial accommodations within Glasgow. If, for example, your hotel room costs £100 per night, an additional £5 will be added to your bill, in line with the 5% charge.
Exemptions to the Visitor Levy
Some groups will be exempt from the visitor levy, including:
- Children under 18 staying in campsites or hostels.
- Individuals staying in temporary housing or for more than 31 nights.
These exemptions ensure that the levy doesn’t unfairly affect vulnerable groups or long-term residents.
Why Is Glasgow Introducing the Tax?
Glasgow is introducing the tourist tax to address the growing pressures of overtourism on its infrastructure and public services. The funds generated will be used to:
- Improve tourism infrastructure, such as transport systems, tourist information centers, and public facilities.
- Support environmental initiatives and public space maintenance.
- Fund cultural and heritage preservation projects, ensuring the city remains a vibrant destination for both residents and tourists.
By redirecting this revenue back into the city, Glasgow aims to ensure sustainable tourism growth that benefits both visitors and local communities.
How Will the Levy Be Collected?
Accommodation providers in Glasgow will be responsible for collecting the visitor levy. They must register with the Glasgow City Council to ensure accurate collection and reporting of the tax. The charge will be included in the total accommodation cost, making it transparent to visitors.
When Will the Levy Be Introduced?
Glasgow’s visitor levy is set to begin in 2027. The city will start its consultations with local businesses and residents shortly to tailor the levy implementation. Once the consultations are completed, local authorities will give 12 months’ notice before the tax is officially enforced.
How Does Glasgow’s Levy Compare to Other UK Cities?
Glasgow’s 5% levy is on par with the tax planned for Edinburgh, which will also impose a 5% tax on overnight stays. This puts both cities in line with the UK’s broader trend toward responsible tourism taxation. While the levy may be higher than that of cities like Manchester, the funds generated will play a crucial role in maintaining the city’s tourism services and addressing the challenges of overtourism.
What Will the Funds Be Used For?
The funds from the visitor levy will be reinvested into various areas to enhance Glasgow’s tourism infrastructure, such as:
- Maintaining public spaces and environmental protection.
- Supporting the preservation of Glasgow’s cultural and heritage sites.
- Tourism-related services, including cleaning, safety, and visitor amenities.
This will help Glasgow not only maintain its status as a top tourism destination but also ensure long-term sustainability in managing growing visitor numbers.
Glasgow Leads the Way in Sustainable Tourism Management
The introduction of the visitor levy in Glasgow represents a forward-thinking step toward managing tourism responsibly. By investing the levy funds into city infrastructure and environmental sustainability, Glasgow is ensuring that tourism continues to benefit both visitors and residents while minimizing its impact on the local environment. With this move, Glasgow is positioning itself as a leader in sustainable tourism and setting an example for other cities across the UK.
Aberdeen Introduces Tourist Tax to Support Local Services and Sustainable Tourism GrowthWhat Is Aberdeen’s Visitor Levy?
Aberdeen will introduce a 7% visitor levy starting in 2027, which will apply to all overnight stays in commercial accommodations, including hotels, hostels, and holiday rentals. This levy is designed to generate revenue that will be reinvested into the city’s tourism infrastructure and public services to manage the growing demands of tourism and ensure sustainable development.
Who Will Pay the Levy?
The visitor levy will apply to anyone staying in commercial accommodations in Aberdeen, including hotels, hostels, and short-term rentals. For instance, if a visitor stays in a hotel room costing £100 per night, they will pay an additional £7 as part of the 7% levy.
Exemptions to the Visitor Levy
Certain groups will be exempt from the visitor levy, including:
- Children under 18 staying in campsites or shared hostel rooms.
- Individuals staying in temporary housing or for more than 31 nights.
These exemptions aim to protect vulnerable groups and ensure long-term residents are not unfairly taxed.
Why Is Aberdeen Introducing the Tax?
Aberdeen’s introduction of the visitor levy is primarily motivated by the need to address the challenges posed by overtourism. With increasing numbers of visitors, the city faces strains on its infrastructure and public services. The funds generated by the levy will be used to:
- Improve tourism infrastructure (e.g., transport systems, visitor centers).
- Maintain public spaces, including street cleaning and waste management.
- Fund environmental projects and ensure the preservation of Aberdeen’s cultural heritage.
By directing the funds raised from the levy back into the city’s tourism-related services, Aberdeen aims to ensure a sustainable tourism model that benefits both visitors and local communities.
How Will the Levy Be Collected?
Accommodation providers in Aberdeen will be responsible for collecting the visitor levy from their guests. Providers will need to register with the local authorities to ensure that the levy is collected accurately. The tax will be clearly added to the total accommodation bill, making it transparent to visitors.
When Will the Levy Be Introduced?
The visitor levy in Aberdeen is set to take effect in 2027. Local authorities will begin consultations with businesses and residents in the coming months to ensure that the levy is implemented smoothly. The city will provide at least 12 months’ notice before the tax is enforced, allowing businesses time to adjust.
How Does Aberdeen’s Levy Compare to Other Cities?
Aberdeen’s 7% levy is higher than the 5% levies planned for cities like Glasgow and Edinburgh, reflecting the specific needs and tourism pressures faced by Aberdeen. This higher rate allows for more significant investment into the city’s infrastructure and public services, addressing the challenges posed by high tourism volumes.
What Will the Funds Be Used For?
The funds raised from the visitor levy will be reinvested in improving Aberdeen’s tourism infrastructure and local services. Specifically, the money will be used for:
- Public spaces maintenance and improvement.
- Enhancing tourist facilities and amenities.
- Supporting environmental initiatives to preserve Aberdeen’s natural and cultural heritage.
This ensures that the city remains a welcoming destination for tourists while maintaining a high quality of life for residents.
Aberdeen Takes a Step Toward Sustainable Tourism Management
The introduction of the visitor levy in Aberdeen is a proactive step toward addressing the challenges of overtourism while promoting sustainable tourism. By reinvesting the funds into local infrastructure and environmental preservation, Aberdeen is ensuring that tourism continues to benefit the city without compromising the well-being of its residents. This move will position Aberdeen as a leader in responsible tourism, fostering a balanced and sustainable tourism environment for the future.
Liverpool Introduces Tourist Tax to Fund City Enhancements and Promote Sustainable TourismWhat Is Liverpool’s Visitor Levy?
Starting in June 2025, Liverpool will introduce a £2 per night tourist tax aimed at generating revenue to support public services and improve tourism infrastructure. The levy will apply to all overnight stays in commercial accommodations, including hotels, holiday rentals, and guesthouses. This initiative is part of the city’s broader strategy to sustainably manage tourism growth and ensure that visitors contribute to maintaining the city’s vibrancy.
Who Will Pay the Levy?
The visitor levy will be applied to all tourists staying in commercial accommodations within Liverpool. For example, if you stay in a hotel for one night at a cost of £100, the levy would be £2 in addition to your accommodation price.
Exemptions to the Visitor Levy
Some groups will be exempt from paying the levy:
- Children under 18 staying in campsites or shared accommodations.
- Individuals staying for more than 31 nights.
- Temporary housing residents.
These exemptions are designed to ensure that the tax does not burden long-term residents or vulnerable groups.
Why Is Liverpool Introducing the Tax?
Liverpool’s visitor levy is designed to help manage the challenges of overtourism, particularly the strain on local services and public infrastructure. With millions of visitors annually, the funds raised will help:
- Maintain public spaces, street cleaning, and waste management.
- Improve tourist infrastructure, including transport systems, visitor information centers, and more.
- Support sustainable tourism initiatives and the preservation of cultural and historic sites.
By directing the levy funds into these areas, Liverpool aims to create a more sustainable tourism model that benefits both visitors and the local community.
How Will the Levy Be Collected?
Accommodation providers in Liverpool will be responsible for collecting the visitor levy from guests. They will need to register with local authorities to ensure the proper collection of the tax. The levy will be clearly added to the total accommodation cost, so visitors will know exactly what they are paying for.
When Will the Levy Be Introduced?
The visitor levy is set to be introduced in June 2025, with at least 12 months’ notice given to businesses before its enforcement. Local authorities will also conduct consultations with businesses and residents to ensure a smooth implementation.
How Does Liverpool’s Levy Compare to Other Cities?
The £2 per night levy in Liverpool is higher than the £1 rate introduced in Manchester, reflecting the additional pressures that Liverpool’s tourism industry faces. However, it remains competitive compared to other European cities with higher tourist taxes, ensuring Liverpool remains an attractive destination for visitors.
What Will the Funds Be Used For?
The revenue from the visitor levy will be invested in improving Liverpool’s tourism infrastructure and public services, such as:
- Public space maintenance and environmental preservation.
- Tourism-related services, including transport, signage, and cultural sites.
- Supporting the local community and ensuring that tourism benefits everyone in the city.
These investments will help preserve the city’s heritage, improve the visitor experience, and ensure long-term sustainability.
Liverpool’s Commitment to Sustainable Tourism
With the introduction of the visitor levy, Liverpool is taking proactive steps toward managing the challenges of overtourism while ensuring that tourism remains beneficial for both visitors and local residents. The revenue generated from the levy will support critical public services and enhance the tourism infrastructure, fostering a sustainable environment for both locals and tourists. Liverpool is leading the way in responsible tourism management, setting an example for other UK cities to follow.
Wales is set to introduce a £1.30 per night visitor levy in 2027 to tackle overtourism and support sustainable tourism, joining cities like Edinburgh and Manchester. The levy will help fund local services and infrastructure, ensuring a balanced and sustainable growth in tourism.
Ensuring a Sustainable Future for Wales’ Tourism Industry
The introduction of the visitor levy in Wales marks a significant step toward managing the pressures of overtourism while promoting sustainable tourism. By generating funds to support essential public services and tourism infrastructure, Wales is ensuring that the economic benefits of tourism are reinvested into the local community. This proactive approach will not only enhance the visitor experience but also safeguard the region’s cultural and natural heritage for future generations. As Wales joins other UK cities in adopting this levy, it sets an example of responsible tourism management that balances growth with environmental preservation, creating a model for other destinations to follow.
