What makes Spain so popular with British tourists?

What makes Spain so popular with British tourists? It can't just be the blazing sunshine that persuades us to go back in droves each and every year - no, Spain seems to have something for everyone.

Thomas Cook first began travelling to Spain 140 years ago, so they are pretty well-versed in the varied delights the country has to offer. The combination of sun, sand and Spanish culture seems to be a formula that British holidaymakers simply can't resist.

Fuerteventura

A major magnet for most Brits is Spain's long stretches of white sand. The savvier amongst you have been snapping up holidays to Fuerteventura in recent years to take advantage of an island that can surely lay claim to the gold standard for Spanish beaches. Fuerteventura is largely undeveloped, and has the longest coastline of the Canaries; it's also the driest of the archipelago isles, with under 15cm of rain per year.

Lanzarote

Other holidaymakers won't be swayed from their annual holidays to Lanzarote, where the beaches are matched only by the island's breath-taking landscape and rock formations that serve as a reminder of its volcanic origins. The landscape is dramatic with high peaks and craggy walks, making hiking a particularly enjoyable pastime here. Water sports and golf are among other favourite local activities.

Ibiza

Of course, Spain's acclaim isn't all due to adventurous hikers and relaxing sunbathers. The long-standing popularity of cheap Ibiza holidays proves that Spain still plays host to the world’s number one clubbing destination. It's not just dancing under the stars, however: Ibiza also boasts some interesting historical sites and, of course, a gorgeous climate.

Menorca

Holidays in Menorca will offer a combination of that heady nightlife and some spectacular wildlife, with a rich variety of birds and other life forms on show. The flora's impressive as well, making this a highly regarded spot to visit not only for mega-rich jet-setters, but also lovers of natural beauty.

Tenerife

When looking for a holiday hotspot that combines all Spain has to offer, there's no need to look any further than Tenerife. It's the largest of the Canary Islands, and all inclusive Tenerife holidays offer visitors the chance to explore everything from flora and fauna to beaches and bars. Tenerife has the highest number of tourist attractions in Europe and a collection of stunning luxury resorts.

With destinations like these to pick from, it's not exactly rocket science trying to work out why British holidaymakers have been gracing Spain's sandy shores for the last 140 years, is it?