Manchester is the first ever UK city to introduce a tourist tax that will charge people to stay overnight.

From 1 April, those visiting the city will have to pay £1 extra a night on their hotel rooms.The money will go towards Manchester Accommodation Business Improvement District (ABID) as part of an improvement programme over the next five years.

It’s estimated the tax will raise over £3m a year, with around 74 hotels and guesthouses already signed up for the scheme.

Annie Brown, first chair of the ABI, told Manchester Evening News, 'I think [the message it sends] has been a consideration, however when you compare it to European cities that have had taxes and visitor levies in place for a number of years, we feel it’s a small amount comparatively.

'There are other cities in the UK looking to put in place what Manchester has done, I don’t think it’s a charge that’s off-putting.'

Wales is also set for a tourist tax, with Bath and Oxford considering charges, along with Edinburgh that may charge tourists £2 a night to stay.

Spain's most visited city, Barcelona has had a €4 tax for tourists since 2012, in addition to the region-wide tourist tax. Those staying in five-star hotels are required to pay a higher price - €5.25.

Venice also charges up to €5 a for anyone visiting for the day, which could rise soon to €10.

(source: various, image: pexels)