Canal Boat Holidays in the UK and other breaks are not affected by the country's variable weather conditions, new research shows.

Statistics compiled by VisitBritain show that although overseas visitors do have some negative perceptions about the British weather, they are generally keen to explore nonetheless.

Among the most popular pursuits among tourists included visiting historical buildings such as churches and monuments, while many also said they enjoy heading to outdoor spaces.

Sandie Dawe, chief executive of the body, said: 'This survey shows that Britain's weather is not as bad as folklore would have us believe.

'Visitors do not come with a belief that should a few drops of rain fall then their trip will be ruined.

'Other figures from VisitBritain show that royal locations throughout the UK are popular with visitors, drawing in more than £500 million of spending every year from overseas tourists.