More than 90 per cent of adults in England engaged in at least one form of cultural or sporting opportunity during the past twelve months.

According to the Taking Part report, 69 per cent of adults participated in active sport while 70 per cent attended a historic site during the past year.

Commissioned by the DCMS in partnership with English Heritage, Arts Council England, MLA and Sport England, the report also reveals that rural inhabitants are more sporty and more likely to attend and participate in arts events than their urban counterparts.

Swimming is currently the most popular sport in England - beating the gym, jogging and playing football.

Culture secretary Tessa Jowell said: "This comprehensive survey shows the vital role culture and sport play in the life of our country.

“It tells us how people are getting involved - be it playing sport, visiting our national museums or stately homes. It allows us to focus our efforts on where we need to do more so that everyone is able to enjoy inspiring activities.”

The report also shows that people are now more likely to take part in activities across the sector.

According to the figures, 95 per cent of all adults who participated in at least one type of active sport had also engaged in a cultural sector.

Leaders in sports and arts welcomed the results and said the results of the survey would help to plan future campaigns.

Jennie Price, Chief Executive of Sport England, said “The Taking Part survey is an essential part of Sport England’s customer jigsaw as it tells us exactly what people think of sport.”

Peter Hewitt, Chief Executive of Arts Council England, added: “The Arts Council aims to give everyone the opportunity to engage with the arts, so the survey provides valuable insight into how and where we can direct our attention in future to help the arts touch the lives of many more."