Monarchy still draws a crowd

London: The British monarchy generates over £500 million (Dh2.863 billion) a year from overseas tourists, according to a report.

The spell cast by the monarchy's 1,000 year history, combined with international media interest in the current Royal Family is extremely powerful at drawing people to certain iconic locations, added the report from the British Tourist Authority.

The Tower of London was the top royal attraction last year, with 2.4 million visitors.

The National Maritime Museum in Greenwich which incorporates the Queen's House — home to the wives of James I, Charles I and the Royal Observatory — was second with 2.3 million. Edinburgh Castle received 1.1 million visitors, putting it in sixth position. Windsor Castle, a principal residence of both Queen Elizabeth I and II came seventh, with 987,000.

Top attractions

The royal residences of Buckingham Palace, Palace of Holyroodhouse and Windsor Castle attract almost two million overseas visitors every year.

Britain's culture and heritage, including theatres, pubs, galleries, castles and stately homes brought in around £4.6 billion in total spending in 2009 and supported 100,000 jobs, the report said.