Many people are enjoying some of the UK's more industrial cities on Canal Boat Holidays, figures show.

A study from VisitBritain revealed that Manchester, Birmingham and Glasgow are emerging as firm favourites for tourists in the country.

Foreign visitors are also increasingly likely to head to these locations, as well as smaller destinations throughout the UK.

For example, Bath was found to have more American tourists than any other nationality, while the French prefer Bristol and Plymouth.

Patricia Yates, strategy and communications director for VisitBritain, said: 'This survey confirms an astonishing transformation of our industrial heartlands has taken place.

'They have become dynamic, stylish international destinations that are increasingly beloved of foreign visitors.

'He added that each city has its own merits and attractions to offer holidaymakers.

Birmingham is the fourth most visited British city in terms of overnight stays for overseas tourists with 737,000 visits between 2006 and 2009, VisitBritain figures show.