Alistair Hardaker
Survey of 692 museums shows staff numbers and full-time employment have also risen above pre-pandemic levels, with over 60% reporting increased project investment.
Non-National Accredited museums in England have recovered visitor numbers typical of those prior to the pandemic, a new survey shows.
The Museum Development England’s Annual Museums Survey suggests annual visitors numbers have now surpassed the 2019/20 pre-covid average, having grown every year since a low in 2020/21.
The survey, now in its ninth year, surveyed 692 museum respondents; around 52% of independent, local authority and university museums in England.
The AMS report is developed and operated by Museum Development South West and PS Research, in collaboration with Museum Development England and funded by Arts Council England.
The report also says both overall staff numbers, and the proportion in full time employment, are slightly higher than their pre-pandemic levels.
Over 60% of museums report increased or sustained project investment, which supports expanding activities and increased or new programming – all contributing to increased visitor figures.
It’s estimated that independent, Local Authority and University museums in England have a combined economic impact of at least £1.17 billion annually.
The report also highlights some museums continuing to face challenges. It says 65% of museums are reporting higher expenditure, due to the ongoing pressures of the rising cost of living.
Victoria Harding, programme manager at Museum Development South West, said: “There is much to celebrate in the Annual Museum Survey 2025. The museum workforce has shown tenacity and creativity, testing new approaches and developing clear strategies to rebuild visitor and volunteer levels with measurable success. .
“This progress is welcome but can only go so far, and systemic financial pressures mean there are still obstacles to overcome. However, as demonstrated by the survey, there is value in investing in the sector, as targeted funding is used to maximise outcomes, drive growth, and deliver positive community outcomes.”
Emmie Kell, director of Museums and Cultural Property at Arts Council England, added: “I am delighted to see the publication of this year’s Annual Museum Survey and the positive stories emerging from its findings.
“As our five-year trends analysis published earlier this year shows, the decade so far has been a challenge for museums, and so the restoration of pre-pandemic visitor numbers and the positive forecasts outlined in the survey is a testament to the resilience and creativity of museums.
“We are grateful to Museum Development South West for their work on the Annual Museum Survey, as well as the museums who have shared their insights and experiences.”
