Hoteliers in Bristol have raised concerns over a proposed tourist tax, warning it could deter visitors and negatively impact the city’s hospitality sector. The Bristol City Council recently approved a feasibility study into introducing a visitor charge, but the Bristol Hoteliers Association (BHA) argues that there are better ways to generate revenue without harming businesses.
BHA Chair Raphael Herzog highlighted that while many European cities impose tourist taxes, they benefit from a lower VAT rate of 5%, unlike the 20% applied in the UK. He emphasized that rising operational costs, including increased minimum wage and National Insurance contributions, already challenge businesses, and a visitor tax would add further financial strain.
Hoteliers also pointed out that unregulated short-term rental platforms like Airbnb pose a bigger threat to the industry. Herzog suggested that Bristol City Council could introduce annual licence fees for Airbnb properties, similar to European cities that charge around £180 per year and cap rental nights. Such regulations would create a level playing field by ensuring Airbnbs meet health and safety standards while helping address the city’s housing shortage.
The BHA stressed that Bristol should focus on attracting more tourists rather than imposing additional charges that might push visitors to other destinations. Instead of a tourist tax, they advocate for better regulation of short-term lets to support local hotels and B&Bs while ensuring sustainable tourism growth.
