West End remains resilient amid new pressures

Our 2025/2026 Annual Area Report has landed.

And it tells a story of growth, resilience, and shifting behaviour in the Heart of London area.

The West End remains one of the world’s most powerful urban economies, where culture, commerce and hospitality come together at scale. But it is also changing. Visitor numbers are rising, audiences are becoming more global, and spending patterns are under pressure.

Our latest annual area report, with data compiled by Colliers, explores the trends shaping the Heart of London area.

Let's look at the visit volumes

Footfall across the district has surpassed 85 million visits for the first time since before the pandemic, with total visits up 2.4% year-on-year. International tourism is rebounding particularly strongly, up 15%, with growing demand from European and North American visitors.

Do we still have seasonal patterns?

That growth was shaped by standout seasonal moments. A record-breaking festive period between October and December 2025 drew more than 26.5 million visitors, the highest since 2020, driven by major activations including Skate Leicester Square and landmark festive light installations across the district.

Who are these visitors?

The audience itself is evolving, too. The West End continues to attract high-value visitors, with more than a quarter coming from the most affluent socio-economic groups, reinforcing its position as a destination for experience-led, premium consumption.

How much are they spending?

Despite increased footfall, this is not directly translating into higher spend. Total visitor expenditure reached £1.11 billion, down 7.7% year-on-year, reflecting wider economic pressures and continued policy challenges, including the absence of VAT-free shopping for international visitors.

How are the commercial spaces doing?

At the same time, confidence in the district’s commercial future remains strong. Office take-up rose by 26%, with demand focused on Grade A space, while a highly skilled workforce continues to underpin the area’s economic strength.

As a HOLBA member, you get free access to our annual and monthly reports, featuring area-specific breakdowns, spend data, and further insights across the Heart of London area. Register here.

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