It's boomtime for free museums during the recession

MUSEUMS are soaring in popularity during the economic downturn as free entry and the weakening pound attract more people.

The 10 most visited UK attractions last year were in London, with the British Museum pulling in almost six million - a rise of almost 10 per cent. The museum has mostly free entry but its fee-charging exhibitions also pull in huge numbers. Displays on the Roman emperor Hadrian attracted 255,000 visitors. A free exhibition of works by American painters including Jackson Pollock was seen by 350,000.

Tate Modern saw a six per cent fall, but with almost five million visits was the second most popular attraction in the UK. More than half of Britain's museums increased revenue from sales in shops and hospitality last year, according to the Association of Leading Visitor Attractions.

Predictions for this year are more upbeat than in other parts of the economy. Almost half the attractions believe they will be unaffected and 18 per cent expect more visitors.

More favourable exchange rates for foreign tourists have helped to swell the number of overseas visitors and 28 per cent expect to see more this year.

Association director Robin Brooke said: "British holidaymakers have the opportunity to discover the treasures on their doorsteps, enjoy terrific value, benefit from a strong exhibitions programme and support the local economy."