The long-held position was taken from the Pleasure Beach by Milton Keynes' sport and leisure complex Xscape, which attracted 6.9 million visitors in 2007.

Boasting a range of extreme and winter sports – particularly skiing – together with family-friendly leisure activities, it beat the Pleasure Beach's 5.5 million visitors according to VisitBritain.

The British Museum came third in the free admissions list with 5.4 million visitors in 2007.

The blow comes just weeks after the Pleasure Beach began charging all visitors to get through its gates.

Throughout this month – including the school half-term holidays – visitors have to pay £20 to get in. Only children under one metre (3ft 3in) in height, disabled people and their carers will be exempt for the charge which allows patrons unlimited rides.

The park was previously charging £32 for an unlimited rides wristband – £27 on its website – but entrance to the park was free. From the beginning of the 2009 season visitors will have to either purchase an Unlimited Ride Wristband or a £5 Freedom Pass to get in.

The move has been slammed by tourist leaders and local business owners who fear the decision will prove too much for families.

The Pleasure Beach defended its decision, saying the £20 charge was "a price promotion" which had proved successful in the past.

Amanda Thompson, managing director of Pleasure Beach, said last year's poor weather had been a big factor in shaping visitor figures.

She said: "We never thought that skiing would be more popular than the Big One but then again skiing indoors does protect you from the unpredictable British weather which we have all experienced in the past year."