Issue 71 Autumn 2017 £2.75
Campaign urges young people to holiday at home
By Christina Eccles
A UK-wide tourism campaign has launched to inspire young people from Great Britain and Northern Ireland to take a holiday at home. According to statistics, 16 to 34 year olds took almost 1.4m fewer holidays at home last year compared to a decade ago. VisitEngland’s £2.5m Join the World – Discover the UK digital and social media campaign, is targeting this ‘lost generation’ using overseas social media influencers and travellers to showcase to their peers the amazing moments and experiences that can only be had on a holiday at home in the UK. The campaign is run in partnership with the national tourism organisations of Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales and tourism businesses and destination management organisations across the UK. Part of the UK Government’s GREAT Britain campaign, the initiative is expected to generate more than 1m additional overnight stays with an £80m boost to the economy. UK government minister for tourism John Glen said: “There is an incredible amount to see and do across the whole of the UK and we want to inspire more young people to take in our
world-class attractions, sites and cities. “Tourism boosts our economy, creates jobs and supports local businesses. By showcasing the exciting and diverse range of trips on offer I hope it will encourage many more young people to explore the UK.” VisitBritain/VisitEngland chief executive Sally Balcombe added: “From moonlight kayaking in Northern Ireland and mountainbiking down Elan Valley in Wales to a night-out in the vibrant Ashton Lane in Glasgow and craft-beer experiences in Yorkshire, the UK is packed full of amazing moments. “We want young people to take a new look at the sheer diversity and quality of activities and experiences right here on our doorstep and inspire them to book a short-break, boosting seasonal tourism and spreading its economic benefits across the UK.” The campaign kicks off with the launch of five short films and images showcasing experiences in London and Yorkshire in England, Strangford Lough in Northern Ireland, Glasgow in Scotland and Elan Valley in Wales, through the eyes of international travellers. These are being promoted across digital and social media channels and digital billboards.
Record June for overseas visitors
Warner Leisure Hotels will welcome a host of new acts to its packed Star Breaks line-up for 2018. Guests will enjoy an array of exciting performances from top names in the world of music, theatre, comedy and dance. Acts will include pop star Gareth Gates, X Factor winner Joe McElderry and singer and West End performer Beverley Knight (pictured).
JUNE saw a record number of overseas visits to the UK, according to official statistics from VisitBritain. There were a record 3.5m visits to the UK in June, up seven per cent on the same month last year. Overseas visitors spent £2.2b – up two per cent compared to the same month last year. It brings the overall number of overseas visits to the UK for January to June this year to a recordbreaking 19.1m and up nine per cent compared to the same period in 2016. Overseas visitors spent a record £10.6b, up 11 per cent on 2016. VisitBritain director Patricia Yates said: “Tourism is one of Britain’s most valuable export industries and this continued growth demonstrates the industry’s increasing importance as a key driver of economic growth across our nations and regions. The tourism industry is making a compelling case to be one of the industries included in the government’s industrial strategy to ensure Britain continues to compete globally. We have already revised our forecast upwards for 2017.”
DESTINATIONNEWS
Cumbrian entrepreneur Ian Dutton is celebrating a third award for his Bowness-based bar and eatery, the Village Inn. The business won Most Outstanding Bar and Grill in South Lakeland at the Restaurant and Bar Awards, hosted by LUX Magazine. The accolade follows two international awards in February for Best Bar and Grill 2017 and Excellence in European Cuisine 2017, in addition to being a finalist at the Cumbria Family Business Awards. Ian said: “I don’t believe we could have planned 2017 any better and this third award is like a cherry on the cake. Once again, our efforts in offering originality, exceptional customer service and consistently high standards have been recognised and we’re delighted to be leading the way in Bowness.”
Gardens continue to attract largest numbers of visitors GARDENS and zoos saw the most significant growth in visitors to attractions last year, according to VisitEngland’s Annual Attractions Survey. The survey, which gathered information from more than 1,500 English attractions, found that historic houses and castles reported a seven per cent increase in visitor numbers and country parks a four per cent increase. Outdoor attractions performed particularly well, with gardens and zoos showing growth of eight per cent. In line with VisitEngland’s Great Britain Tourism Survey results, coastal and rural attractions experienced strong growth of four per cent and five per cent respectively. Tourism minister John Glen said:
“We have an amazing range of world-class attractions in England that draw in millions of visitors every year. “Whether it is our unique historic buildings, internationally important museums or stunning gardens, there is a huge amount to see and do. “Ensuring that all parts of the country benefit from our tourism industry is a key government priority so it is fantastic to see such growth across the regions.” VisitEngland chief executive Sally Balcombe added: “There are so many outstanding attractions offering year-round experiences throughout the country and its great see Brits enjoyed 2016’s ‘Year of the English Garden’. “Attractions are a much loved and valuable part of the tourism
landscape, adding colour and variety to the visitor experience and encouraging people to get out and explore, driving the value of tourism across the regions.” The British Museum was the most visited free attraction in England in 2016, for the ninth consecutive year, with nearly 6.5m visitors, and was closely followed by the National Gallery which had more than 6.2m visitors. The Tower of London topped the list of paid for attractions for the eighth year running, with 2.7m visitors, and Chester Zoo experienced its highest ever ranking, in second place, with nearly 1.9m visitors. Visits to England’s attractions rose by two per cent in 2016, with attractions reporting revenues up by seven per cent.
Winter festival launches in London THE first Greenwich Wintertime Festival will launch this December, set in the stunning grounds of the Old Royal Naval College and against the backdrop of the Cutty Sark. A fresh, new winter festival with a difference, Greenwich Wintertime Festival will offer a magical atmosphere, bringing together the contemporary and the traditional to create an inspiring Christmas experience every day. In association with world heritage-
listed Old Royal Naval College, the event will host a bespoke covered ice rink, high-calibre entertainment across the site, London’s finest innovative lifestyle winter market presenting an array of independent creative designers and brands, the very best of artisan festive food and drink, an art exhibition, plus an enchanting Father Christmas experience for all the family. Finance and commercial director at the Old Royal Naval College Ed
Barnard said: “We are deeply excited to have Greenwich Wintertime Festival this Christmas and it’s a welcome addition to the wonderful variety of Christmas-themed events that London has to offer. “Taking place within the historic grounds of the Old Royal Naval College, it promises to bring something a little different to the festive arena and is another great reason to visit this exciting part of the capital.”
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Cottages to offer green getaway COUPLES looking for the ultimate green getaway can head to the southern slopes of an iconic Lake District mountain to enjoy two new holiday cottages unveiled by The Blencathra Centre. Castlerigg View and Borrowdale View, are built from authentic stone and have panoramic views of the UK’s newest UNESCO World Heritage Site, looking out onto the fells and towards Skiddaw. The cottages are also perfect for the eco-conscious couples, with heat and power all supplied to properties at The Blencathra Centre onsite hydro and biomass systems. Head of centre and the Blencathra Centre Tim Foster said: “The mountains and the outdoors are a huge hook for visitors coming to Cumbria and the Lake District, we’re now giving people the opportunity to actually stay on a mountain. “We’re based 300m up, so guests can walk to the summit of Blencathra in less than two hours or quicker if you run. “As well as providing eco-friendly accommodation we also offer electric car hire. We have two electric Renault Twizys ‘Pip’ and ‘Methra’ which are ecologically and economically beneficial to guests wanting to explore.”
Contacts EDITORIAL Judith Halkerston group editor jh@scriptmedia.co.uk Christina Eccles reporter 01226 734463 ce@scriptmedia. co.uk Olivia Taylor reporter 01226 734407 ot@scriptmedia.co.uk Dominic Musgrave production editor dm@scriptmedia.co.uk
PRODUCTION Stewart Holt – studio manager – sth@scriptmedia.co.uk Laura Blackburn – graphic designer lb@scriptmedia.co.uk Ben Thornley – graphic designer bt@scriptmedia.co.uk ADVERTISING Tony Barry sales and marketing director 01226 734605 CIRCULATION Kelly Tarff 01226 734695 kt@scriptmedia.co.uk Web: www.destination.uk.com Twitter: @Destukmag
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Norwich’s Christmas Tunnel of Light crowned for 2017 GLITTERING lights and cheery live spectaculars are all part of the festive celebrations in Norwich this year, which will feature more Christmas lights than ever before, stunning Fabergé sculptures, a four day Christmas fair to launch the season’s shopping frenzy and great family shows. In 2016, thousands flocked to Norwich to experience the UK’s first Tunnel of Light when it was unveiled in the heart of the city centre, and the attraction will be back for 2017 with a new animation sequence and a glittering tiara. Across Norwich, more Christmas lights than ever before will come together to create further magical illusion. The Christmas lights switch-on will take place on November 16, with the Christmas market taking place from November 24 to 27 and including 50 indoor and outdoor stalls. PR manager for VisitNorwich, Melanie Cook, said: “Norwich is an exciting and diverse UK city to visit throughout the year – for day trips and overnight stays – but at Christmas, with the additional lights scheme, it gets even better. “Expect a non-stop programme of
Photo credit Visit Norwich live festive events, performances, music, in-store entertainment and cultural activities. “Add to that the fact that Norwich
is a compact city to walk around, with fantastic shopping with high street brands and a high proportion of one-off independent shops, plus
its thriving café and restaurant culture, and you have an all-round Christmas experience to rival other, much larger, cities in the country.”
North East hotel to launch treehouses
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The award-winning Montagu Arms Hotel in the heart of the New Forest has appointed a new general manager. Andrew Nightingale is a hospitality expert with many years of experience in the industry. He comes to the Montagu Arms from his role as operations manager at the Kilworth House Hotel and Theatre in Leicestershire. Andrew takes over from Sunil Kanjanghat, who has moved on to manage the Montagu Arms’ sister hotel Careys Manor in Brockenhurst after eight very successful years, the last two as general manager. Andrew said: “I’m very excited about joining the Montagu Arms, which has a great and long heritage. I love the character of the building and the warmth of the staff, which really helps to create a unique home-from-home atmosphere.”
A NORTH East hotel has unveiled its latest sky high development – six luxury treehouses. Ramside Hall Hotel, Golf and Spa near Durham has submitted a planning application to create the accommodation behind one of its golf courses, giving visitors to the hotel the opportunity to stay in unique surroundings. The two bedroom treehouses will all have a private living room and state-of-the-art bathroom with a free-standing copper bath, similar to the one in the hotel’s Celebration Suite.
The plan is the latest multimillion pound development at the family-owned hotel, which is part of Ramside Estate which also owns Hardwick Hall Hotel near Sedgefield and Bowburn Hall in County Durham. The treehouses – which will be built on stilts – will give guests views over the 18th fairway and green of the Prince Bishops golf course, with plans for each to have 16 windows so they will be bathed in natural light. If permission is granted the development would be scheduled to open in June/July.
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Project to open up England’s coast is latest fund winner
Groups have been invited to spectacular fireworks night at Blists Hill Victorian Town, near Ironbridge, on November 4. Visitors will be able to enjoy a walk around the town’s Victorian streets before watching a fireworks extravaganza, accompanied by music, which will light up the night sky.
Cumbria Tourism to boost bookings with marketing campaign CUMBRIA Tourism is planning to launch its major winter marketing drive for 2017/18, following the success of last year’s campaign, which billed the area as an all-yearround destination. In just five months between November 2016 and March 2017, the previous campaign reached a combined audience of 25m. This included a social media following of over 18m and over 1m newsletters sent to Cumbria Tourism’s customer database. The campaign will officially launch on November 1, running through until mid-March 2018 supporting the trade through to the crucial Easter holidays. The aim is to showcase the wide range of events and attractions people can enjoy throughout the winter, by sharing content, images and itineraries to inspire staycations and drum home the message that visitors are welcome at any time of year. Cumbria Tourism is working with Cactus Creative on the visuals, to incorporate the new World Heritage Site status and build upon the success of its award-winning #theplacetobe campaign which
has been promoting the Lake District, Cumbria, nationally and internationally. Other key elements of Cumbria Tourism’s five-month winter marketing campaign will include an engaging winter breaks section on the destination website golakes, which attracts 5m web users annually; new media partnerships with key national publications and a series of targeted e-newsletters to Cumbria Tourism’s visitor database of 168,000+ people. Managing director of Cumbria Tourism, Jim Walker, said: “Our 2016/17 winter campaign was in essence a pilot but thanks to wide support from tourism businesses it reached a combined audience of 25m and invited them to visit, or become aware of our brilliant all year-round visitor destination. “Winter months can be more challenging for tourism businesses and this campaign, designed on behalf of our 2,500 members, offers practical marketing support to boost business through to Easter 2018. “Importantly, winter business strengthens the Cumbrian economy and sustains more year round employment for our residents.”
Hotel receives top award
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JUST six months after opening its doors, Novotel London Canary Wharf is celebrating achieving prestigious industry recognition for its accommodation, hospitality and service. Following an unannounced overnight stay, an AA inspector has awarded Novotel London Canary Wharf one of the highest hotel accolades available in the UK – a Four Star rating and Silver Star award. The hotel’s BÕKAN 37 restaurant, with 360° views across the capital, has achieved
two AA Rosettes for its decadent modern European dishes. General manager Philip Logan said: “We are delighted with the AA rating and it is incredible to reflect on what the hotel has achieved since opening. “Novotel London Canary Wharf is the global flagship for the brand, and reflects the future of Novotel, and of hospitality. “The hotel offers an unforgettable experience and we look forward to welcoming many new guests to experience what we have to offer.”
A NEW tourism project to open up England’s coast has been awarded funding of £1m from VisitEngland’s Discover England Fund. The England’s Coast project, led by the National Coastal Tourism Academy, will promote the coastline using interactive video technology which allows holidaymakers to create their own coastal itineraries. England’s Coast will target German, Dutch and French visitors coming to Britain, and enable them to build personalised itineraries along the North East, South, South West and East coasts. It will inspire visitors with a selection of each region’s finest coastal locations and activities, allowing them to see destinations and retailers along each route, while also booking accommodation, activities and attractions. The new project builds on a successful pilot, the Coastal Pass, which gained year one funding from the Discover England Fund. England’s Coast receives £1m over two years from the fund (and is 40 per cent match-funded by the National Coastal Tourism Academy and its partners from the public and private sector). Minister for arts, heritage and tourism John Glen said: “The Discover England Fund is spreading
the benefits of our thriving tourism industry to the whole country by helping to strengthen the tourism offer outside of the capital. “England’s Coast is a great example of how technology can be used to target key markets and make it even easier for international tourists to explore our stunning stretches of coastline.” VisitEngland chief executive Sally Balcombe added: “The Discover England Fund is all about boosting international and domestic visitor growth, creating a step-change in the industry and spreading the economic benefits of tourism across the country and I am really pleased with the variety and quality of the projects who applied for funding. “England’s Coast will develop and connect the coast, extend the season and target European markets, getting more people out exploring everything our coastline has to offer.” The three-year £40m Discover England Fund, which runs from 2016-19, improves England’s competitive tourism offer by building world-class, bookable tourism products and getting them to the right international customers at the right time, benefitting the domestic market and making it easier to explore the country.
A decade of Drayton Manor Park’s Magical Christmas DRAYTON Manor Park’s festive celebration is set to be bigger, better and more magical than ever before as the popular family attraction celebrates a decade of festive fun. Starting on Saturday November 18 and running on selected dates throughout the Christmas period, families can dig out their favourite woolly hat and gloves and immerse themselves in the ultimate magical experience. Visitors of all ages are invited to delight as Europe’s only Thomas Land once again becomes the ultimate winter wonderland, with guaranteed snow showers up to three times a day. In celebration of 10 years of Magical Christmas, Drayton Manor
Park will also be serving up fantastic festive delights including candy canes, mince pies and Christmas cake. Little ones can also enter the enchanted Castle of Dreams where they’ll be greeted by playful helpers and the sugar plum fairy, before meeting Father Christmas in his Grotto. The magical makeover continues throughout the park, with an enchanting 30 foot light show Christmas tree taking centre stage and playing festive music throughout the day. Each day of Magical Christmas will end with an abundance of colour, thanks to a dazzling fireworks display.
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The biggest responsible tourism programme ever at WTM London THIS year sees big developments in WTM’s Responsible Tourism programme, as it seeks to build on its ever-growing popularity and increase its profile amongst its mainstream audience. For the first time, almost all of the sessions will take place in the main halls, with the introduction of a dedicated WTM Responsible Tourism Theatre on the exhibition floor, hosting an array of sessions. The effects of so-called ‘Overtourism’ has been getting a lot of media coverage in 2017. The new theatre will host a panel exploring how destinations ranging from Barcelona to Seoul are addressing the impact of overtourism, as well as a dedicated session looking at the issue in the remote Scottish islands of Orkney and Arran. With further discussions on both China and Carbon taking place on Monday, this year’s programme with explore the challenges of managing the effects of more and more people becoming tourists and their impacts on the places in unparalleled depth. With 2017 being the UN’s International Year of Sustainable Tourism for Development, it is fitting that this year WTM London plays host to more responsible
tourism sessions than ever before, with almost 30 panels taking place across the three days. As well as Overtourism, 2017 will also look at other topics currently getting a lot of attention, such as what the industry can do to fight plastic pollution and protect its oceans; how it can fight trafficking in its supply chain; and animal welfare. In addition, there will be a special focus on how the Indian state of Kerala is integrating the Sustainable Development Goals into its tourism development model.
With so much going on, there’s also scope for looking at emerging issues, such as how to deliver slum tourism responsibly; rethinking certification; and the inspiring story of a remarkable project in Bwindi, Uganda. WTM London is also keen to engage as many people as possible in delivering a series of sessions that explore the challenges people meet in their business. Therefore it has just launched a survey, asking people what they consider to be biggest issues facing
tourism. One session that will not be happening in the Responsible Tourism Theatre is the annual Responsible Tourism Awards, which as always will be held in the main theatre. Entry for the awards is open now, until the end of August. You can apply here. WTM World Responsible Tourism Day – including the WTM Responsible Tourism Awards – will take place on Wednesday November 8. The Responsible Tourism Theatre can be found at AF590.
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Loganair begins Manchester to Glasgow six-a-day service
Award winning visitor attraction CONKERS welcomed some Hollywood magic when British actor Stephen Graham and his family visited the 4D cinema and enjoyed some of the outdoor activities including the Hi and Lo Ropes experience. Stephen has starred in a range of Hollywood films and major US and UK TV dramas, including Pirates of the Caribbean and Gangs of New York. He and his family live locally in Ibstock, Leicestershire. Regional operations manager Chris Sturdy said: “It was a pleasure to welcome Stephen and his family to CONKERS. Although our 4D cinema has been very successful with visitors, we believe that this is the first time that a true Hollywood actor has come for the full, multi-sensory cinematic experience.”
Body develops new accessible tourism guides
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VISITLANARKSHIRE is on target to provide accessibility guides for all the region’s attractions and accommodation providers by 2020. The area’s official tourism body, which now offers accessibility information for 62 per cent of all attractions, has set the 100 per cent goal as part of the Lanarkshire’s Area Tourism Strategy. VisitLanarkshire has been working in partnership with leading access information provider DisabledGo to create detailed access guides for attractions and accommodation providers. Each guide provides comprehensive information and photographs of the attractions, showing the journey through each venue. The information such as parking restrictions, baby changing facilities and ramp access gives visitors the information they need to judge whether they will be able to visit the destination comfortably and confidently. Recent work on improving accessibility information in the area has resulted in 49 per cent of Lanarkshire’s hotels having access guides from DisabledGo, alongside 75 per cent of campsites and 62 per
cent of total attractions. Detailed access guides for train stations and a number of shops around the area are also available. The access guides will be reviewed on an annual basis, ensuring information is continually updated. Alongside the guides, staff at Lanarkshire’s attractions are also being encouraged to undertake specialised training by VisitScotland to improve the customer service offered to visitors and guests with a disability or additional access requirements, which aims to give staff a better understanding about disability, equality and diversity through videos and podcasts. Chair of the Lanarkshire Area Tourism Partnership Mark Calpin said: “The accessibility project allows our attractions and accommodation providers in Lanarkshire to respond to visitors with confidence and enables us to offer high quality information for guests ahead of a visit. “The survey was straightforward and professional and I would encourage as many venues and attractions to get involved to further open up our fantastic attractions to as many people as possible.”
AIR passengers travelling between Manchester and Glasgow can now reap the benefits of a 50 per cent boost in service frequency, as airline Loganair officially flies solo. Loganair, which has operated Flybe’s services between the two cities for eight years has terminated its franchise agreement with the carrier and will now be operating up to six services a day on the popular route, branded as Scotland’s Airline. Loganair’s commercial director Kay Ryan said: “We’ve been operating this route between Glasgow and the North West for eight years so we’re acutely aware of the requirements for an enhanced schedule. “A lot of passengers might not have been aware of the Loganair brand as we flew under our previous franchise partner’s colours but the quality of service was wholly down to the hard work of our team. “It’ll be the same aircraft, pilots and crew which will be expanding the number of flights available to passengers. We’ve got an extremely competitive offering compared to other carriers including flexible fares,
Loganair’s Kay Ryan and Manchester Airport’s Julian Carr welcome the inaugural flight to Glasgow. complimentary baggage allowance and exemption from credit-card booking fees. “We are extremely grateful to our customers for the tremendous support they are affording us, which is translating into very strong advance bookings.” In addition to the six-a-day Glasgow service, Loganair will be providing flights to Norwich, which it also previously operated under the Flybe franchise agreement.
Visit Isle of Wight launches new Victoria’s Island Trail VISITORS to the Isle of Wight can now follow a new Victoria’s Island Trail and explore the former monarch’s summer home. The new Trail has been created specially to celebrate the release of major feature film Victoria and Abdul, which stars Dame Judi Dench and Ali Fazal, and was partially shot on location at Osborne – the seaside palace that was both a much-loved family home and stately residence.
Victoria’s Island Trail features 50 significant locations across the island with connections to Queen Victoria and includes key locations including the church Princess Beatrice married in, the Queen’s favourite Isle of Wight viewpoint and the yacht club created just for her. Osborne itself has also secured an exhibition of some of the costumes from the film, which are already on show.
Cottage Holidays rebrands COTTAGE Holidays has rebranded to Original Cottages; reflecting the need to move from being a competitive search term (cottage holidays) to being a recognisable and distinctive player in an increasingly competitive market. The Original Cottages name recognises the company’s unique marketplace ability to offer national reach alongside local, in-destination, expertise for home owners and guests. Marketing director for Original Cottages Sonia Holman said:
“Family is at the heart of Original Cottages. We’ve retained that essence despite our growth to 21 agencies and 3,900 properties across England and Wales. “By having local people in local places, the personal touch craved by consumers is there. Complemented by the consistency of standards and the security of national scale that consumers seek, we offer the best of both worlds. “The rebrand provides an opportunity to demonstrate this.”
Go behind the scenes at Wembley
DESTINATIONSPORTS TOURS
THE Wembley Stadium Tour takes you behind the scenes of the UKs biggest sporting and music venue offering you the best stadium experience in the world. The award-winning 75-minute fully guided tour takes you deep inside the heart of the stadium to areas reserved for the biggest and best names in sport and music. You gain access throughout the stadium starting in our luxurious Club Wembley hospitality area, then making your way through the Royal Wembley Suite, down to the press room, then through to the England dressing rooms before making your way pitch side in front of 90,000 seats. You will then do the champions walk up to the iconic Royal Box to have your replica photo taken with one of football’s oldest cup competition trophies, the FA Cup. Throughout the tour there are many more historical treasures such as the infamous 1966 World Cup Final crossbar, the Jules Rimet Trophy and the original flag from London’s 1948 Olympic games. The Wembley Stadium tour is open 12 months of the year, seven days a week with exception of certain event day closures in the calendar. Tours depart 10am to 4pm daily with pre-booking always advised.
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DESTINATIONHEART OF ENGLAND
Festive fun for all the family in Shakespeare’s England ENJOY plenty of festive fun in Shakespeare’s England with a host of seasonal activities including the chance to see Father Christmas, listen to festive plays and carol concerts, enjoy candlelit tours, craft fairs and markets and see a Royal Shakespeare Company performance of A Christmas Carol. Shakespeare’s England has all the special components you need for a magical Christmas this year. Christmas markets are held in Stratford-upon-Avon on the last five Thursdays to Christmas – November 23 and 30 and December 7, 14 and 21. The lights are switched on in Royal Leamington Spa on November 19, in Stratford-upon-Avon on November 23 and in Kenilworth High Street on December 1 and in Warwick Road on December 3. Visit Yuletide Fayres in Leamington every Sunday from November 19. The Warwick Victorian Christmas Evening featuring craft stalls and traditional entertainment is on November 30 when the lights are switched on. A new traditional Victorian Christmas Market opens in Stratfordupon-Avon from December 8 to 10 with 150 stalls selling gifts,
local produce, homemade crafts, handmade cakes, decorations plus traditional roast chestnuts, mulled wine, ciders, gin and Bailey’s chocolate. Join in the spirit of Christmas with the sound of choirs, instrumental performances, dance displays, stilt walkers, a Victorian carousel and barrel organ music. This winter the Royal Shakespeare Company (RSC) presents the delightful comedy, Twelfth Night, featuring Adrian Edmondson as Malvolio and Kara Tointon as Olivia from November 2 to February 24 and a new stage adaptation by David Edgar of Dickens’ seasonal classic, A Christmas Carol from November 27 to February 4 with Phil Davis as Scrooge. Both plays run in the Royal Shakespeare Theatre. On November 18 Father Christmas will ride through the streets of Stratford-upon-Avon in a horse drawn carriage. From November 23 to December 24 the Frostmakers Guild is taking over Stratford’s magical attraction, Magic Alley, and inviting visitors to discover the tale of the legendary Frost Phoenix and get their own Frostmakers Passport before meeting Father Christmas and solving the mystery of the missing
Frost Phoenix. As part of Stratford’s Victorian Christmas weekend, the Magic Alley Players will be performing traditional street theatre as they recreate a Victorian Nativity with the help of the audience who are then rewarded by a visit from a very special guest! Tickets for Magic Alley and a visit to Father Christmas must be prebooked to avoid disappointment. The Shipston Rotary Victorian Evening, which takes place on Friday, December 1 is a nostalgic, but contemporary, introduction to the Christmas festive season. Visitors can enjoy dozens of festive stalls, the Tree of Life, music, singing, food and the arrival of Father Christmas to his grotto in the town centre which is closed to traffic for the evening. Visit Stoneleigh Abbey for a Christmas Craft Fair on November 26 from 11am to 4pm. The Riding School Cafe will be serving drinks and snacks and ‘Birds of all Feathers’ will entertain visitors with a static Bird Display. There is free onsite parking. Take part in a Christmas wreath making workshop at Kenilworth Castle on December 8 and learn about the different techniques used
to make a wreath. Christmas at the Castle takes place from December 9 to 10 with crafts, storytelling and the chance to meet Father Christmas. Enchanted Kenilworth takes place from December 15 to 23 in the grounds of the Castle after dark. Strings of lanterns and fairy lights will lead visitors along a garden trail into a magical wonderland with a traditional fairground, carousel and swing boats. Visitors can enjoy mince pies, mulled wine and shopping at heritage-inspired stalls. Enjoy Christmas at Chedhams Yard in Wellesbourne on December 16 with carols in the Visitor Centre around the wood fire plus music and traditional Fayre including cake and mince pies. Children can also meet Father Christmas and take part in activities. Open from 10am to 4pm See a performance of Sleeping Beauty at The Royal Spa Centre from December 2 to 31. Joining Spa Centre favourites JP McCue and Sean Dodds are Sally Peerless as the good fairy Gabriella, Denise Pitter as the wicked fairy Carabosse, Chloe Fay as Princess Rosa, Glyn Dilley as the King, James Leeman as Prince Victor and Teddy Moynihan as Carabosse’s side kick, Fran. Tickets cost from £13.50.
Make Cadbury World your choc-full of fun destination
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OFFERING something for groups of all ages to enjoy, Cadbury World is the perfect day out. Located in picturesque Bournville, there’s plenty to help bring the magic and making of Cadbury chocolate to life. Inside the attraction, discover the chocolatey zones, from the Aztec Jungle and historic Bull Street zones, to Advertising Avenue. Don’t miss the Chocolate Making zone, where chocolatiers demonstrate traditional chocolate making techniques. In the outdoor area, the 4D Chocolate Adventure zone allows visitors to experience the feeling of diving into a pot of chocolate, all from the comfort of your seat! For younger visitors, the African
Adventure Play Area is always popular and The World’s Biggest Cadbury Shop is a must-visit. Cadbury World is home to a yearround programme of events from themed weekends featuring special characters, to seasonal activity with a chocolatey twist, with plenty to keep groups entertained. Special discounted entry rates are available for groups of 15 or more with free coach parking and complimentary admission for one driver. Organisers of groups of 20 or more will also receive free admission. For group brochures and booking enquiries, visit www.cadburyworld.co.uk or call 0844 880 7667.
DESTINATIONEXCURSIONS
Bold new look and enhanced visitor experience at Excursions™ 2018 WITH a bold new look and enhanced visitor experience Excursions™ will continue to provide inspiration, ideas and itineraries for days out and short breaks to over 1,200 group travel organisers at Alexandra Palace in North London on Saturday, January 27 (10.30am to 4pm). Centre show will be the custom designed Hambledon Vineyard Wine Bus traveling up from Hampshire, where visitors can enjoy a sample of their sparkling wine. The show’s unique location based stand layout will also be continued, with exhibitors from one area positioned close to each other. Keeping up with the digital age organisers Tourism South East are introducing the Visitor Connect system, which enables visitors to keep in contact with exhibitors after the show from a simple scan of their badge barcode. Not only can exhibitors follow up conversations by email, but visitors will also receive a contact list of those they have met. Visitors coming to the show at the personal invitation of coach tour operators will have exclusive access
to the ‘Special Guest Mary Rose Experience’ where they can join members of the Mary Rose team in Tudor costume to explore the history of Henry VIII’s favourite ship, the mystery of her sinking and the marvel of her raising. Special guests will also be able to handle replica artefacts and even real objects from the Mary Rose. Old meets new in the ExcursionsTM overnight familiarisation trip to London on Friday, January 26. Exclusively for group travel organisers visiting the show, the packed itinerary includes visits to the Tower Bridge Experience, London Stadium and the ArcelorMittal Orbit with an evening meal and West End show. To pre-register for show entry and book seats on a free transfer coach visit www.excursionsshow.com To book a place on the London familiarisation trip contact the ExcursionsTM team on 023 8062 5516.
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DESTINATIONNEWS
The Historic Dockyard Chatham – a coach friendly attraction
Celebrations mark Museum’s 50th anniversary AS PART of their 50th anniversary celebrations, the Ironbridge Gorge Museums in Shropshire have created two new fabulously festive packages for groups planning to visit Blists Hill Victorian Town, where they can travel back over 100 years to experience the sights, sounds and smells of a Victorian Christmas. Both offer a perfect December day out for your group where they can celebrate a truly special taste of Christmas. A warm festive welcome awaits, as groups step in from the cold and warm up by the fireside as they discover the traditionally decorated shops and cosy cottages. Add a little Victorian sparkle to your groups visit as they explore the traditionally decorated town and experience the spirit of Christmas as it was. Enjoy a delicious three-course Christmas lunch menu for £23 per person or there’s a lighter lunch for just £11. Exclusive to groups of 15 plus and available Tuesday to Thursday throughout December, both lunch 12 options include admission and are
WITH the creation of our award winning building Command of the Oceans, group visits to The Historic Dockyard Chatham just got even better! We are proud to announce that we have been awarded Coach Friendly status by the Confederation of Passenger Transport UK, becoming the only Kent attraction to hold this prestigious title! CPT UK only award this status to attractions and locations across the country that understand the needs of coach companies and their passengers and offer the best facilities, access and information for coach drivers. We are delighted to be recognised and rewarded for our commitment to ensuring our groups experience The Historic Dockyard and its rich history and culture. Our impressive new visitor facilities not only include a wonderful restaurant that can cater exclusively for group lunches, but a new shopping experience, four new immersive galleries, and free coach parking, with dedicated drop-off and collection points close to the visitor entrance. Visits can be tailored to each group’s requirements by working with our dedicated group sales department, who are experts in planning your day. Itineraries can include guided visits of the site, either walking or on-board your own coach, with fantastic knowledgeable tour guides, allowing your group to discover maritime history through
buildings, architecture, ships and people. Our popular Call the Midwife experiences are also available for groups; a costumed midwife will take your group around areas which have been used as locations for many of the scenes in the popular TV series. Combine this with an exclusive chance to have afternoon tea in Commissioner’s House, which was also used as a 1950’s style restaurant in an episode from series two. With many more group opportunities available, such as Crash out on Cavalier, where young explorers can sleep in real ship bunks on HMS Cavalier to experience what life was like on-board, to packages for language schools to offer a rich resource for students hoping to discover more about our history and culture or merely to brush up on their language skills, The Historic Dockyard Chatham, is fully equipped to cater for all your group’s needs.
exclusive to groups of 15 plus. Groups are asked to pre-book at least two weeks in advance. Victorian Christmas Weekends Make this Christmas extra special and visit Blists Hill Victorian Town over the two Festive Weekends of December 9 to 10 and 16 to 17. Groups can take advantage of a very special rate – just £9 per person for parties of 15 or more. Soak up the Yuletide atmosphere with seasonal entertainment and activities. Watch as the townsfolk busily make preparations for Christmas, 1800s style, listen to brass bands, meet Father Christmas’ reindeer and enjoy delicious festive food and drink. There is free coach parking at Blists Hill, group leaders and coach drivers are entitled to complimentary admission when accompanying a group and coach drivers will be given a free refreshment voucher. Call the group visits officer Ben Walker to discuss the options on 01952 435 900 or email visits@ ironbridge.org.uk; details can also be found on www.ironbridge.org.
The Postal Museum and Mail Rail EMBARK on a journey through five centuries of world-class curiosities, providing a different, previously unseen view on some of the world’s most significant historical events, and the quirky beginnings of the earliest social network. Descend into the old engineering depot of Mail Rail the 100-year-old little-known Post Office railway and board a miniature train designed to transport people through its narrow
tunnels for the first time. The train will pass through and stop at the original Mount Pleasant station platforms 70 feet underground. This tour includes a two-course lunch with tea or coffee. www.postalmuseum.org 15 – 20 Phoenix Place, London WC1X 0DA. For groups and travel trade visit www.groupsdirect.co.uk
DESTINATIONCENTRE STAGE
Photo credit: Matt Crockett
Wicked continues to be a must-see show
THERE is something truly special about Frank L Baum’s The Wizard Of Oz – hard to believe that the story is now over 100 years old! This iconic piece of literature not only spurred that classic film staring Judy Garland, but has continued to live in the hearts of children of all ages for decades since. So when a musical prequel of the untold story of the Witches of Oz hit the stage in 2003, it was no surprise that it became a worldwide smash. Wicked was an overnight Broadway success. The hit musical then transferred to London in 2006 and has cemented its place as one of the West End’s true modern classics. The hugely popular Wicked has now been seen by over 50 million people in 15 countries and is the 17th longest running show in London theatre history! The acclaimed musical recently celebrated a decade of performances at the Apollo Victoria Theatre where the show will
shortly welcome their eight millionth theatregoer. It’s not surprising that around 18,000 people experience the magic of Wicked every week. Based on the acclaimed, bestselling novel by Gregory Maguire that ingeniously re-imagines the stories and characters created by Frank L. Baum in ‘The Wonderful Wizard of Oz’, Wicked tells the incredible untold story of an unlikely but profound friendship between two sorcery students and their extraordinary adventures in the land of Oz. The multi-Grammy and Academy® Award-winning Stephen Schwartz, the man behind Disney classics such as Pocahontas, The Hunchback of Notre Dame and Enchanted, penned the shows now iconic music and lyrics. Wicked is adapted for the stage by Winnie Holzman, with musical staging by Tony® Awardwinner Wayne Cilento and direction by two-time Tony® Award-winner Joe Mantello.
The production really is one of the public’s favourites, having been voted ‘Best West End Show’ three times in the WhatsOnStage awards, and winning the Olivier Audience Award twice.” With over 4,300 performances at the Apollo Victoria Theatre, Wicked’s reputation as the must-see West End musical has been well and truly cemented. However, you can also catch the hit musical all over the globe, with smash-hit productions in such far-flung places as Australia and Brazil. It seems an age since the original 2003 production, where the cast included a whole host of Broadway legends such as Frozen star Idina Menzel as Elphaba, Glee’s Kristin Chenoweth as Glinda, and the Oscar® winning star of Cabaret, Joel Grey as the Wizard. Today, Wicked continues to play to packed houses in New York City, as well the original cast recording winning the Grammy Award for Best
Musical Show Album in 2005, then going on to become double-platinum in 2010. Overall, London theatre has never been so buoyant. Over 14.3 million people enjoyed the magic of a West End production last year, generating £644.7 million at the box office. Super Break prides itself in running a hugely successful short break theatre programme as part of its overall portfolio. Travel Agents across the UK work tirelessly to sell packages to many of the hit West End shows and Wicked continues to be a key seller for us. This popular show goes from strength to strength, drawing customers from all over the UK week after week, month after month. We look forward to continuing to support this show and helping it reach its next amazing milestone.
For more information visit www.superbreak.com/agents or call 01904 436000
News from around the theatres ... By David Thomas
AS we celebrate the last Bank Holiday before Christmas, our thoughts naturally turn to the dazzling collection of great shows that will be attracting visitors to London’s West End and exciting destination cities across the United Kingdom and Ireland over the Autumn/Winter period. With new arrivals such as Lin Manuel Miranda’s record-breaking rap sensation Hamilton, Mel Brooks’ Young Frankenstein and Nativity! The Musical, based on the hugely successful film, joining timeless classics such as Les Misérables, The Phantom of the Opera, Disney’s The Lion King, Matilda The Musical, Wicked, The Book of Mormon and 14 Mamma Mia! there will once again
be something for audiences of all ages and tastes. If spectacular song and dance is your thing, you will be spoilt for choice with 42nd Street and An American In Paris performing at The Theatre Royal Drury and The Dominion Theatre respectively, while the fabulous School of Rock is one of FOUR great Andrew Lloyd Webber shows currently in London (with The Phantom of the Opera, Evita, Jesus Christ Superstar). Motown The Musical, Disney’s Aladdin, Dreamgirls, Kinky Boots, Thriller Live and Stomp are all tailormade to deliver great nights out to visitors to London. And if you’re heading away from the capital, the Christmas period sees Cameron Mackintosh’s Miss Saigon, one of the greatest musical
of all time, thrilling audiences in Cardiff, Shrek The Musical weaving enchantment at The Edinburgh Playhouse, and perennial favourite The Sound of Music at the Bord Gáis Energy Theatre, Dublin. Of course, no Christmas would be complete without a panto, and this year’s star-studded extravaganza at the world famous London Palladium is Dick Wittington starring Julian Clary, Elaine Paige, Paul Zerdin, Nigel Havers, Gary Wilmot, Ashley Banjo and Diversity, with Half A Sixpence sensation, Charlie Stemp in the title role. While Strictly Come Dancing star, Craig Revel Horwood, takes to the stage to play Miss Hannigan in Annie at the Piccadilly Theatre for 10 weeks only from the 18th of September!
David Thomas
DESTINATIONCENTRE STAGE
Strictly Come Dancing professionals Ian Waite and 2016 finalist Oti Mabuse are joining forces to embark on a 60-date tour of the UK with their new stage show. An Audience With Ian Waite and Oti Mabuse – Rhythm of the Night promises dance fans an extravaganza of high intensity Latin and Ballroom favourites in one thrilling evening designed to dazzle. During the evening, dance enthusiasts will be transported away to a place packed with wonderful moments, with both entertainment and a chance to learn more about Ian and Oti and their lives. The tour will call at venues including Salisbury City Hall, Perth Concert Hall and Norwich Theatre Royal.
Wishes really can come true … WHEN Matthew Croke first saw Disney’s animated classic Aladdin as a young boy, there was only one thought on his mind: ‘I dreamed about playing Aladdin one day…’ And now Matthew can be found dancing across rooftops, escaping the Cave of Wonders and singing to Jasmine as they both soar high above the stage of the Prince Edward Theatre, as the new star of Disney’s spectacular musical Aladdin in the West End. His whole career has been something of a magic carpet ride since he started out dancing as a mere diamond in the rough at the age of five. By the time he was 15 he’d already won Dance Master UK, and at 19
he went straight from Arts College into Grease at the Piccadilly Theatre. Since then he’s danced his way across the West End in the likes of Chicago, Wicked and Singin’ in the Rain, as well as on tour around the UK and in his home town of Sheffield. It’s the role of Aladdin, though – the lovable street rat that he worshipped as a boy – that marks his debut in a leading role. What a way to make a big break! We’re wondering what his other two wishes will be… Book at AladdinTheMusical.co.uk or call 0844 482 5151* *Calls cost 7p per minute plus your phone company’s charge.
Musical is spectacular SET against the majesty of the Serengeti Plains and to the evocative rhythms of Africa, Disney’s multi award-winning musical is a unique theatrical experience that your groups will remember forever. Brilliantly reimagined by acclaimed director Julie Taymor, Disney’s beloved animated film has been transformed into a spectacular stage production that explodes with glorious colours, stunning effects and enchanting music. At its heart is the powerful story of Simba and his epic adventure to his destined role as King of the Pridelands. Now in its 19th triumphant year at
the Lyceum Theatre and ranked as one of the longest-running musicals in West End history, THE LION KING is undoubtedly one of London’s most popular attractions and an unmissable landmark event. Enjoy a unique and personalised service when you book direct with Disney Tickets Group Sales. Offering access to the best available seats, the option to reserve now and pay later and no additional fees, there is simply no better way to secure your group’s experience. To reserve the best seats call 020 7845 0949 or email group.sales.uk@disney.com
Shrek The Musical has announced casting for its major nationwide tour. Opening at Edinburgh Playhouse for the festive season this year from December 12, the production will then tour throughout the country in 2018. Leading the cast as beloved swamp-dwelling ogre Shrek will be Steffan Harri, with Call the Midwife star Laura Main as Princess Fiona. Due to filming commitments, Laura will be performing at selected venues throughout the tour. Also joining the cast will be Marcus Ayton as Shrek’s wisecracking sidekick Donkey and Samuel Holmes as pint-sized villain Lord Farquaad.
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DESTINATIONNEWS Advertiser’s announcement
Safehands Holidays’ accessible hotels in two great locations SAFEHANDS Holiday portfolio started in 2011 with the purchase of the New Mayfair Hotel on Blackpool’s New South Promenade. In February 2015 Safehands expanded its holiday portfolio with the opening of The Esplanade Hotel in Llandudno, North Wales. Both Hotels are registered to provide a unique holiday experience with a specialist in house care team capable of offering a complete package of care, ranging from personal care through to social and leisure support. Both Hotels occupy enviable positions with panoramic sea views of the great British coast line. Both hotels have undergone a complete renovation and refurbishment programme costing over £7m, to accommodate various
groups of people with accessible accommodation you can rely on. The New Mayfair Hotel has 43 modern accessible rooms and is situated in the enviable position of South Beach on South Promenade, with spectacular panoramic sea views. With 19 single rooms this is a favourite for group organisers as they don’t have single supplements to think about. Most of Blackpool’s world famous attractions are only a short distance away, not to mention the fabulous country side of Lancashire and the Lake District, which are only one
hour away ideal for days out. The Esplanade Hotel has 40 modern accessible rooms and is situated on the outstanding Victorian promenade in the heart of Llandudno Bay, with a fantastic central location, amazing views of the Great Orme and the famous Pier. With 12 seaview single rooms available this is another fantastic hotel for groups. The main shopping street, Venue Cymru Theatre and the Llandudno museum are only a short stroll away. Various other tourist attractions are within an hour of the hotel including Conwy Castle, Anglesey, Snowdonia National Park, Betws-y-Coed and Llanberis, We understand that good food is an important feature of your holiday and that is why we have our own
in house chef’s with over 20 years’ experience in cooking traditional and authentic cuisine. Using local suppliers to provide us with fresh produce, you can be assured of good quality home cooked meals throughout your stay. We are proud to say we still offer waitress service so guests and carers can relax and enjoy our hearty English breakfast, traditional Sunday roasts not to mention our famous freshly battered fish and chips along with a selection of our homemade vegetarian options. Wheat-free, dairy free or other dietary requirement are available including a variety of delicious children’s meals.
For more information visit www.safehandsholidays.co.uk
Group organiser Paul Marks and branch manager Christine Green return to the Esplanade Hotel Llandudno with members of the Ms Society North Staffordshire for the fifth time since its opening. THIS time the group chose to stay for our soap star special midweek breaks. Each evening the hotel provides an entertainment programme with a great selection of entertainers. The group were joined by our fantastically talented female artist Eryl Restall, within minutes of bingo finishing she had them all up dancing and cheering, ready 16 to welcome our soap star for the
evening; AMY WALSH aka Tracy Metcalfe. Amy was greeted by the group with a warm welcome; she interacted with all the guests, responding to various questions about her life as a Soap Star, with the guests trying to get some secrets of what the future holds for her and David. Following on from this, Amy greeted each of the guests individually, with in house photographer Karen Dixon
to ensure all guests had their photo taken. These were then readily available to take home in a signed presentation card. This was not the end to this extra special night. Amy joined everyone on the dance floor and stayed well over her time dancing and chatting to guests, and the fantastic carers that come and support clients on their holidays. The following morning we had an
Eggstra special treat for our guests, for the first time in all the years of working with the soap stars, we had someone who agreed to come back in her own time to say goodbye before she headed home. Amy sat and had breakfast, she opted for the lighter option of poached eggs and smoked haddock and commented on how perfect it was. Well done head chef Paul Dyson, another satisfied guest.
DESTINATIONNEWS
London Mayor launches bold tourism vision
Illuminated trams on parade in Blackpool THE world’s first illuminated tram parade will be staged in Blackpool this October as part of a three-day festival of free entertainment. The Festival@LightPool event will be held on and around the Tower Festival Headland from October 25 to 27 and will feature spectacular live entertainment between 5pm and 7pm each night. For one night only on October 26, Blackpool’s iconic collection of illuminated heritage trams will parade along the promenade for the first time in the tramway’s glorious history. The illuminated tram parade, featuring the battleship HMS Blackpool, the lottery funded Western Train and the Fisherman’s Friend Trawler, will set off from the
Pleasure Beach tram loop at around 5pm and will then travel along the tramway to Bispham before returning to terminate at Blackpool Pleasure Beach around 75 minutes later. The parade will visibly slow as it approaches Blackpool Tower to give spectators an opportunity for an unmissable photo and video opportunity. For those who want to be a part of the parade, there will be a limited number of tickets available for visitors to travel on the trams during the parade. The festival will be complemented by the free 3D LightPool shows, which will be projected on to the front of The Blackpool Tower building throughout Illuminations season until November 5.
THE Mayor of London and visitlondon.com have launched a bold new vision to accelerate the capital’s status as a world-class tourist destination. According to figures, tourism numbers in London are set to rise sharply, with more than 40m people expected to visit the city by 2025, an increase of 30 per cent on the 31.2m visitors who came to the capital in 2016. The Tourism Vision for London, which is backed by more than 100 industry partners and supported by the Mayor of London, also projects visitor spending to grow by almost 50 per cent to £22b a year, up from £14.9b. Other key findings from the Tourism Vision for London show: n Some of the fastest growing markets for visitors to London by 2025 are China (103 per cent growth), India (90 per cent growth), the USA (43 per cent) and the UAE (43 per cent) n London’s tourism industry is worth 11.6 per cent of the capital’s GDP and nine per cent across the UK as a whole n The sector employs 700,000 people in London – equivalent to one in seven jobs. However, the tourism vision states that the growth in visitor numbers is not a given with increasing competition from other destinations, particularly emerging markets that are fighting to attract new visitors. It makes four recommendations: n Invest in more pre-visit promotion
to attract more first-time visitors and the boost numbers travelling in offpeak periods. n Invest in information and the visitor experience to allow people to explore more of the city. n Ensure London can sustain and accommodate growing numbers of visitors through investment in cultural infrastructure, improving visitor amenities and harnessing digital technology. n Develop the infrastructure for business visits to ensure the city remains attractive for event organisers and delegates. According to Google, London leads worldwide searches for city and short breaks ahead of Barcelona, Rome, Paris and Amsterdam, with the overall number of searches up by 17 per cent on year-on-year. London also tops Google’s search rankings for global cities to fly to. Mayor of London Sadiq Khan said: “Visitors to the capital bring huge benefits – the industry boosts London’s economy, as well as supporting hundreds of thousands of jobs and showing the world that London is an open, welcoming and diverse city. “It’s important that all Londoners benefit from a growth in tourism. By inspiring visitors to come to our great city during quieter periods like autumn and to find hidden gems off the beaten track, we can ensure that the projected growth in visitor numbers is sustainable and that the tourism and cultural industries work for everyone.”
Aparthotel launches six townhouses in Carlisle New directors appointed
THE award-winning Halston Aparthotel in Carlisle has launched six new contemporary townhouses in the city centre. Just 50m from The Halston Aparthotel on Warwick Road, Carlisle, in a former Lloyds Pharmacy building, the Halston team have converted the upper levels into six self-contained, serviced apartments to the same luxury standard as The Halston Aparthotel, winner of the 18 Self-Catering Provider of the Year
award at this year’s Cumbria Tourism awards. Co-owner of The Halston, Dominique Harrison, said: “The townhouses are a continuation of the quality guests have come to expect from The Halston as well as an opportunity for more businesses and visitors coming to Carlisle to have a luxury experience. Each townhouse has been individually furnished to ensure comfort for guests staying one night, a week or a month.”
FOLLOWING a ballot amongst its Associate supplier members, the Association of Group Travel Organisers has appointed two new directors to sit on its Board. The newly elected directors are Emma McMillan, groups and affinities manager, David Urquhart Travel and Steve Reed, managing director, Steve Reed Tourism. Both bring considerable experience to the Association.
They join the existing 10 Associate and Group Travel Organiser directors on the AGTO Board. Commenting on the appointments, Mike Bugsgang, chief executive of AGTO, said: “The experience that these new directors bring will further strengthen the Association’s positioning as the voice of the group travel sector. Their input will prove invaluable in ensuring that AGTO’s strategic aims are delivered.”
DESTINATIONTOURISM SOCIETY
Is tourism good for you? By Peter Cole IF YOU are a resident of Venice, Barcelona, Dubrovnik or even Skye your answer may well be ‘no’ if the growing number of media reports and features over the summer are to be believed. But is snobbishness at play here – is it the perceived quality of today’s culturally under-prepared, self and selfie-obsessed traveller that rankles as much as the quantity? Or are things really out of balance? Meanwhile, of course, less desired or fashionable destinations would just love to have the problems associated with putting up the ‘full’ signs. At the Tourism Society we are really interested to find out what’s really going on. This less than diplomatic approach (below) to visitor management was found at St Stephen’s Basilica, Budapest, but is emblematic of a wider community backlash against mass tourism in ‘hotspots’ across Europe. Maybe a similar sign at Orkney’s St Magnus’ Cathedral would have not gone amiss when a funeral service was recently interrupted by selfietaking cruise passengers. And the cruise industry is just the latest bête noire for promulgating the kind of ‘hit and run’ tourism that challenges destination capacity, distorts the supply chain, leaves very little residual benefit in local economies and even less of a cultural imprint in visitors’ memories; too many ships, getting ever larger, on tighter schedules, chasing limited deepwater berths, or so some claim. But budget airlines, online travel agents, airbnb, social media trophy hunters, relaxed planning regimes, ambivalent community leadership, even EU free movement, have all found themselves in the dock for similar crimes over recent years. The truth is that travel and tourism continues to grow organically and is expected to double from now to 2030 (1.8bn arrivals worldwide). But there can also be serious
Peter Cole unintended consequences of the potent cocktail of numbers and technologies. When tourism pays more per night for property owners than residential use, and platforms for world-wide distribution are so easy for both buyer and seller, then there are inevitably significant impacts on the local housing market. My Cornish relatives traditionally moved to a back room and let the rest of their house out in the summer (always warm and sunny in the ‘50s and ‘60s I seem to recall). Airbnb and its rivals have converted that practice into a slick, industrial scale model – the original ethos of sharing time and space with locals long since swept away on a tide of hard-headed commercial property exploitation. The resident population of Venice has more than halved to 55,000 since the 1970s while visits are averaging 60,000 per day. With the loss of ‘real’ businesses to serve a resident population in terminal decline, theme park status beckons while the city literally sinks under the weight. Many rural areas of the UK (‘favoured‘ by ‘second homes’) whose concerns were unheard for many decades may now be enjoying some grim schadenfreude as historic European cities begin to suffer the tourism backlash. But hang on a minute – have a look at your own holiday photos. There are plenty of mine with nobody else in shot other than friends or family. Am I just lucky or is it the times, locations, activities and transport options I am choosing? Yes tourism growth is inevitable and inexorable but there is still plenty of capacity out there. But ‘hot’ destinations need sensible mitigation measures to improve the visitor and resident experience. As revealed recently on Radio 4’s ‘Costing the Earth’ Amsterdam (population 1m, visitors 17m per annum) has acted – a limit of 60 days maximum holiday letting of ‘unofficial’ residential property per year with a maximum of four persons staying. Illegal hotels are being closed down
with hefty fines imposed. Airbnb is working with the city authorities to make the new rules work. In addition the city is actively promoting a variety of ‘new’ districts and itineraries beyond the historic centre for repeat visitors. The cruise terminal will be moved further out to encourage a wider range of tour options beyond the city. All supported by compelling ‘nudge’ marketing. Choose to visit Orkney’s most sensitive and popular prehistoric sites Scara Brae and Ring of Brodgar in the evening – not only will you see them at their most atmospheric but you will have the place to yourself. The limited access to special places like Skomer, off the Pembrokeshire Coast, allows the development of premium products and unique experiences. Above all it is important that destination managers, whatever the temptations, stick to the principles of the VERB model – keeping the needs of the Visitors, Environment, Residents and Businesses in
balance. That is the only way we keep tourism truly sustainable and avoid this summer’s anti-tourism headlines. n Peter Cole, Cole & Shaw cyf, FTS, TCN. Peter is a destination consultant and coordinates the Tourism Society’s ‘Think Tank’
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