VisitBritain has announced that The Queen’s six Oscar nominations at the recent Academy Awards is likely to benefit the British tourism industry.

According to the national tourism body, film tourism is becoming increasingly popular. Around 40 per cent of potential visitors are thought likely to visit locations viewed on film or TV.

VisitBritain’s chief executive, Tom Wright, said: “A film can act as free advertising for a destination, location or attraction. Showcasing destinations through film helps maintain the enduring popularity of our beautiful landscapes and countryside, centuries of history, iconic characters, actors and actresses and literary greats.”

As patron of British Tourism Week (12–18 March), HRH Prince of Wales will draw further national and international attention to the British tourism industry, aided by recent coverage of The Queen, which features 10 Downing Street, Buckingham Palace, Culzean Castle, Blairquhan Castle and Waddesdon Manor.

Stephen Dowd, chair of British Tourism Week, added: “Our unique royal heritage is critically important to Britain’s visitor economy. His Royal Highness’ interests in heritage and in many of the quintessential elements that constitute Britain’s tourism brand, make him a perfect ambassador for tourism.

“Royal recognition of the importance of British Tourism Week will help us redefine both the image and the reality of British tourism in the important years ahead.” Details: www.britishtourismweek.com

Photograph: Culzean Castle, which featured in The Queen