Local Tourism is still in need of support…

Recent research, commissioned by Warwick District Council (WDC), on the local economic impact of tourism shows that figures have not returned to the pre-pandemic figures of 2019. 2022 saw an increase in domestic staycations but have since declined with some areas in the UK reporting significant reductions in visitors but international travellers are now returning to the UK.

The industry is still being hit by a number of issues to include: the on-going high energy costs and cost of living crisis; increased salary costs with rises in national minimum wages and National Insurance Contributions; increased business rates through a reduction in the rates relief and the burden of staffing shortages.

In response to these difficulties WDC is pleased to announce two offers available through our Destination Management Organisation, Shakespeare’s England to promote hospitality, tourism and leisure businesses and their events through a FREE listing on the SE website and the one event portal across the West Midlands.

Please find details here: https://www.shakespeares-england.co.uk/free-listing/ https://www.shakespeares-england.co.uk/whats-on/ submit-event/

Take your meetings to the next level with our special £50 Day Delegate Rate available exclusively throughout August 2025

Your package includes:

– Fresh pastries & energy shots on arrival

– Mid-morning smoothies & cookies

– A choice of working lunch or two-course conference lunch

– Afternoon pick-me-up: scones with clotted cream & jam

– Unlimited tea, coffee, cordials & water throughout the day

– Full use of meeting room with LCD screen, flipchart, projector & WiFi

– Complimentary car parking

Book now and give your team a productive day with a delicious twist

T&Cs: Valid for meetings booked between 1st to 31st August 2025

New bookings only Excludes bank holiday Min 10 delegates Price per person, per day Subject to availability

With over 150 annual outdoor events taking place across the District activities are ramping up to bring more visitors to the area. All events can be found on the WDC What’s On Guide but some to note are here:

• Kenilworth celebrates a significant milestone in its long history this summer as the town comes together to mark the 450th anniversary of Queen Elizabeth I’s 19-day visit to Kenilworth Castle. The visit from 9 to 27 July 1575 was her longest ever visit to a courtier’s residence, with a lavish programme of festivities laid on throughout her stay by her host Robert Dudley, Earl of Leicester. The centrepiece of the 450th anniversary celebrations is the opening of a new immersive art installation at Kenilworth Castle by Lindsey Mendick entitled ‘Wicked Games’ (offering a new perspective on the relationship between Dudley and the Queen) which will be open until 31 October. Many of the town’s partners have come together to create a programme of commemorative events and activities.

More details here: https://kenilworth-tc.gov.uk/450th-anniversary/

• The Aviva National Bowls Championship returns to Victoria Park in Royal Leamington Spa on 13-31 August. Bowls England, welcomes players and fans of all ages and abilities to enjoy world class bowls. Having hosted the Commonwealth Games Lawn and

Para Bowls in August 2022 it is once again opening its doors to showcase the best in National Bowls. Businesses can now experience all the drama, action and tradition of the Aviva National Bowls Finals, in style with corporate hospitality packages available, ideal to entertain clients or for team building days. The offer allows you to dive into a delectable food hamper, relax in your exclusive VIP area, play on the famous greens and much more!

More details here: https://www.bowlsengland.com/event/aviva-nationalfinals-2025/

• Warwick is once again playing host to many top bands and artists who will be performing either at St Nicholas Park as part of the AEG Presents Warwick Sessions 2025 or at Warwick Castle.

AEG Presents is delighted to announce the headline acts of Train, Will Young & Beverley Knight, The Stranglers, Craig David and Elbow who will be performing from 2 to 6 July. And once again Warwick Castle is also bringing legendary live music to its historic grounds this summer with performances by Bryan Adams, Texas, Pet Shop Boys and Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone in Concert.

For further details of all these events and many others please visit https://www.warwickdc.gov.uk/events https://www.warwickdc.gov.uk/info/20361/whats_on