New government data suggests that more than half of adults (53 per cent) have visited a museum or gallery in the past year, boosting increased levels reached during 2012/13 that are now greater than ever before.

In addition, the Taking Part survey from the Department for Culture, Media & Sport (DCMS), said that 78 per cent of adults have attended or participated in the arts, while heritage attractions also proved popular with 73 per cent of adults surveyed visiting a site. More frequent visitors to the UK’s heritage sites are also increasing, with a 31 per cent increase in people visiting sites 3-4 times a year.

In May alone, national museums in the UK received 4.4 million visits, according to the figures.

“It is really encouraging to see the cultural sectors performing so well, and the ever increasing interest across all regions in our museums is particularly welcome,” said former culture minister Ed Vaizey.

“The government recognises the value of arts and culture, which lie at the heart of UK life and we continue to work with and fund organisations like the Arts Council to find different ways of increasing attendance and participation in the arts.”

To read the Taking Part survey for 2013/14 quarter four in its entirety click here.