Tourism in Oxfordshire is not all about the university colleges and dreaming spires of Oxford. There is big business behind the rolling west Oxfordshire countryside too.

British Tourism Week runs until Tuesday - and west Oxfordshire has been singled out as providing a welcome boost to the county's economy. Each year, tourism in the district contributes more than £213m to the economy and provides 4,506 jobs.

About 4.3 million people visit the district each year, and one of the most popular attractions is Cotswold Wildlife Park, near Burford. Owner Reggie Hayworth said: "In many ways, promoting tourism in west Oxfordshire is pushing against an open door as it's such a lovely part of the world.

"Because of our wonderfully central location, it is also an excellent meeting point for families and friends from all over the country."

West Oxfordshire District Council helps the tourist industry through Visitor Information Centres in Witney, Chipping Norton, Burford and Woodstock. Last year, the centres received more than 100,000 visitors through the door and dealt with over 50,000 additional inquiries by phone, email and fax.

The council also produces and distributes a variety of publications, hosts events and represents west Oxfordshire at exhibitions in the UK and abroad.

Lorraine Horne, marketing officer for Cogges Manor Farm Museum, said: "We are busily getting ready for our reopening on Saturday, March 22 with special Easter events and there are lots of new attractions happening this year."

Witney MP David Cameron said: "I would like to pay tribute to the hard work and initiative shown by everyone involved for their contribution to the British tourism industry and the UK economy. I would also like to make specific mention to all those involved in tourism across West Oxfordshire who ensure that the area remains a must-see destination and supports a vibrant visitor economy."

West Oxon attractions: Chastleton House, Rollright Stones, Cotswolds Woollen Weavers, Aston Pottery, Minster Lovell Hall & Dovecote, Cotswold Wildlife Park, Kelmscott Manor, Bishops Palace, Blenheim Palace, right, Oxfordshire Museum, West Ox Arts, North Leigh Roman Villa, Oxford Bus Museum, Cogges Manor Farm Museum, Kelmscott Manor, Combe Mill, Witney & District Museum, Swinford Museum, Chipping Norton Museum, Rousham House, Aston Pottery, Tolsey Museum, Burford.