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Issue 51 March/April 2013 £2.75

Locations feature in domestic short-break campaign

New research could change holiday habits By Christina Eccles GROUNDBREAKING research taking place at Manchester Metropolitan University could change the way tourists behave on holiday forever, it has been claimed. Senior lecturer in eTourism Dr Timothy Jung is currently working on a pilot scheme in Dublin that would allow visitors to scan buildings and receive real-time information in the form of text, pictures, animation or video. Known as Augmented Reality Tourism, the technology goes beyond the smartphone apps currently available by offering richer information updated minute-by-minute. Working with Lorna Maxwell – senior executive officer of the Economic Development Unit at Dublin City Council – and Alex Gibson – assistant head of school, Dublin Institute of Technology – Dr Jung is testing the technology on buildings including hotels, restaurants and cinemas on O’Connell Street. He explained: “We will be looking at using different levels of media – one will be text only, another will use photography and the third will use video or animation. “We are investigating customer acceptance and attitudes towards

new technology and how it will change their experience. “We think this technology will change the way tourists experience cities.” It is hoped this enhanced experience will encourage visitors to spend more and contribute further to the tourism income of the city they are visiting. And Dr Jung revealed that once the researchers had worked out how to make the technology WiFi or 3G supported, this idea could spread across the globe. He added: “It is really groundbreaking, this is just the first step. “I’m sure there are a lot of European cities who would be interested in this.” Developments in Augmented Reality Tourism could also provide a host of new real-time marketing opportunities for businesses – such as local advertising to tourists. How do you think developments in technology could boost tourism in the UK? Would you like to see this idea take off in our towns and cities? Send your comments to the Destination UK editorial team by emailing ce@scriptmedia.co.uk. We’ll print the best of your comments in the next issue of the magazine.

A new production of Burn The Floor has hit the West End, with a cast including Strictly Come Dancing stars Robin Windsor, Kristina Rihanoff and Karen Hauer. The spectacular show takes audiences on a journey through a variety of dance styles from the Charleston to the Rumba and Viennese Waltz. Performances at the Shaftesbury Theatre will run until September 1. Credit: Hugo Glendinning

SOME of England’s most picturesque rural locations have been highlighted in a new campaign to promote domestic short breaks. The campaign – rolled out via print, radio and online – is the fourth of six launched by VisitEngland, covering the four key themes of countryside, coast, heritage and culture, partly funded by the Government’s Regional Growth Fund. It focuses on how much England’s green and pleasant land has to offer those looking to spend quality time with family and friends – from picturesque villages and inspiring landscapes, to historic market towns and country pubs. Destinations partnering with VisitEngland include Bronte Country, Cumbria, the New Forest, Yorkshire Wolds and Peak District and Derbyshire. Chief executive James Berresford said: “This exciting campaign is one of several launching this year with the aim of growing tourism in England. The campaign aims to inspire UK residents to explore our green and pleasant land, and take a short break in one of England’s most beautiful rural destinations.”

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DESTINATIONNEWS

Bowness hotel named UK’s most romantic THE Cranleigh Boutique in Bownesson-Windermere, has been crowned the UK's most romantic destination and the third most romantic in the world by TripAdvisor. Located just a minute's walk from the shores of Lake Windermere, couples experiencing a stay at The Cranleigh can enjoy soaking in a Ben de Lisi glass bath, mood lighting and an outdoor hot tub. Each of the 18 luxury bedrooms have been individually designed and sumptuously furnished, with designer bathrooms, with The Hideout, a private boutique house available to rent from April. Owners Stephen and Louise Hargreaves said: “We're thrilled to be able to put Cumbria on the map for romance in this year's Travellers' Choice Awards for the Most Romantic Hotels. “Aside from the romantic setting that the Lake District offers, we always make it our mission to bring the romance inside as well, and it's great that it hasn't gone unnoticed by the couples who have stayed with us. “We are not afraid to be different and will strive to continue to deliver a unique and memorable experience at The Cranleigh.”

Contacts EDITORIAL Judith Halkerston group editor 01226 734639 jh@scriptmedia.co.uk Christina Eccles reporter 01226 734463 ce@scriptmedia.co.uk Dominic Musgrave reporter 01226 734407 dm@scriptmedia.co.uk

PRODUCTION Stewart Holt – studio manager – sth@scriptmedia.co.uk Laura Blackburn – graphic designer lb@scriptmedia.co.uk Victoria Tennant – graphic designer vt@scriptmedia.co.uk ADVERTISING Andrew Loades product manager 01226 734482 Tony Barry sales and marketing director 01226 734605 CIRCULATION Kelly Tarff 01226 734695 kt@scriptmedia.co.uk Web: www.destination.uk.com

The Cranleigh Boutique in Bowness-on-Windermere.

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DESTINATIONNEWS

Overseas visitors spend £4.5bn a year in shops By Christina Eccles

The sanctuary will offer a permanent home for Anne, Britain’s last circus elephant.

Longleat unveils plans for elephant sanctuary LONGLEAT Safari and Adventure Park has unveiled detailed plans for a proposed new elephant sanctuary. The plans, which have been submitted for approval, include a 994sqm heated accommodation area with deep sand floors, natural sky light panels, automated feeding systems and a specialist treatment area. An extensive, 10-hectare outdoor space will feature a large grassy paddock, rocks, log piles, a giant browse frame, sand pits and the ‘Thirst Pockets Elephant Spa’ which will give the elephants a pool to utilise.

The new sanctuary will offer a permanent home for Anne, Britain’s last circus elephant, who has been cared for at Longleat since April 2011 after secretly filmed footage showed her being abused by her former groom. The sanctuary can provide accommodation for up to four elephants, including Anne, however Longleat will not be re-homing other elephants until the new building has been completed. It is hoped once approved, work will begin later this year, with a proposed completion date in 2014.

BRITAIN is one of the world’s most sought after destinations for shopping, according to research from VisitBritain. Findings by the national tourism agency estimate 18m foreign visitors spend £4.5b in the country’s shops each year, meaning 25 per cent of all expenditure by overseas visitors is on the UK’s high streets and department stores. The survey revealed the majority of the shopping spend was on clothes, with an estimated £2.3b generated by fashion-conscious foreign tourists. Many visitors also bought souvenirs, gifts and household goods, accounting for about £1.6b. Research also revealed London’s strong retail offering is a major attraction for foreign visitors, with about 81 per cent of visitors to the capital going shopping. Of the 18m visitors, the French are the most prolific shoppers with over 2m trips, followed closely by 1.63m

Germans, 1.63m Americans, 1.3m Irish and 1.1m Spanish. The Dutch, Australians, Italians, Belgians and Swedes complete the top 10. Chief executive of VisitBritain Sandie Dawe said: “Shopping in Britain is seen around the world as a positive and welcoming experience, and one of the things VisitBritain promotes to encourage visitors. It’s not just purchasing designer goods at Harrods, or rubbing shoulders with the rich and famous on Chelsea’s King’s Road that lures visitors to the UK – a huge number also make the trip to seek out bargains, whether it’s finding the best deals on designer goods at Bicester Village and the McArthurGlen Retail Outlets, or hitting the high street in Edinburgh or Manchester. “Our shopping experience is world class, with high quality, desirable British brands enticing international visitors at all times of the year and providing real value for money against our competitors."

Representatives visit India REPRESENTATIVES from some of the country’s top attractions have visited India to tap into the growing ‘friends and relatives’ visitor market. The likes of Wimbledon, Westfield UK and Historic Royal Palaces joined VisitBritain’s India Mission 2013, encouraged by the emergence of the country as a major player in terms of visits to

friends and loved ones across Britain. The national tourism agency hosted its annual trade event in Mumbai and New Delhi, providing UK suppliers with the opportunity to meet over 200 agents across India, promoting the range of British destinations, tour packages and attractions available to Indian visitors.

‘Cumbria Day’ hailed a great success

TOURISM and business leaders from Cumbria headed down to London to launch the county’s first Cumbria Day at the Houses of Parliament. The trip was designed to raise awareness of the potential of Cumbria’s visitor economy and food and drink industries with key politicians and decision makers at the heart of government and national organisations. More than 50 business leaders from all parts of the county made up the delegation who highlighted the county, its tourism and food offering and business opportunities. VisitEngland CEO James Berresford said: ‘’Cumbria Day cemented the county’s reputation for being one of England’s most important destination brands and once again Cumbria Tourism showed off its

professionalism amongst the crème de la crème of English Tourism. Congratulations to all those involved in Cumbria Day.’’ Prime Minister David Cameron also dropped into the event, meeting a range of Cumbria’s fine food producers and trying out some local produce. Cumbria Tourism’s managing director Ian Stephens added: “Cumbria day is yet another example of Cumbria Tourism lobbying and representing Cumbria at the highest levels. “The team at Cumbria Tourism joined up with staff from the MPs offices in Cumbria and in Westminster to put on a memorable event and lay foundations for future national and international promotions.”

A new luxury boutique hotel has opened in Wales. Hidden in the marshlands of Laugharne in Carmarthenshire, The Corran Resort and Spa – formally known as Hurst House on the Marsh – has undergone extensive refurbishment under its new ownership and management team. The hotel has 21 individually styled rooms including The Byre which consists of four luxurious suites and The Cottage, a stand-alone suite located within the courtyard. The spa at The Corran includes a swimming pool, Jacuzzi and three treatment rooms.

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DESTINATIONNEWS

London 2012: Inspiring a generation of hotels By Seamus MacCormaic

Salisbury Cathedral is offering new group tours tailored for lovers of flowers and flower arranging. Hosted by members of the cathedral’s flower team and headed by creative director Michael Bowyer and colleague Susan Branch, visits, which will include a short guided tour around the cathedral floor – including its flower themed architecture and windows – are expected to take two hours and include light refreshments.

AS we are all aware, summer 2012 delivered huge exposure to the UK and our capital city. Undoubtedly being a busy time for hoteliers, it inevitably illustrated some valuable lessons that will help to guide them throughout Europe during future events. We recognise the value in sharing lessons to help hoteliers adjust their strategies to meet the demands of high profile events and therefore wanted to highlight some points to bear in mind. We found many hoteliers blocked out rooms for group bookings and removed availability from listings, so pricing could be decided. Although this may have seemed wise at the time, so a strategy could be carefully decided on, it meant when consumers went to book, it showed ‘none available’. This caused potential ‘panic’ which drastically impacted on the hotel industry in the run up to last summer. As a result, it is vital for hotels to put a pricing availability strategy in place, ahead of time which would help ensure rooms are reasonably

priced and length of stay restrictions aligned with demand. Participating in timely merchandise or promotional offers is also a key point to consider, by building their base occupancy through engaging with regular customers. Once this foundation has been established, hotels can then raise their rates and continue to increase them as the remainder of rooms get sold. This would help effectively maximise all channels to achieve 100 per cent occupancy – something that wasn’t common during the summer 2012. Hotels shouldn’t limit exposure during major events; we found that many hotels guaranteed exclusive listings of inventory to event promoters, sometimes as high as 70 per cent. By shutting off all other distribution channels meant they were often left with significant excess capacity because those promoters didn’t fill the bookings. In this case, it might be smart to reconsider the value of the relationship, relative to all other distribution channel options so as to benefit both parties. I personally feel, catering for a

younger audience needs to be placed high on the agenda when planning for a national or regional event. As an industry we understand these events don’t just appeal to the older age group, so many will bring their families to join. The industry needs to increase its options available to cater for this extended audience and by widening their reach they will in turn expand their booking possibilities. It is encouraging to see tourism has been booming since the Opening Ceremony and net room nights have increased by 40 per cent year on year between August and December 2012. Although this is slowly decreasing we can still see the effect this key 2012 event has had on generating interest in visiting the capital. These lessons are valuable ones that should be taken on board, so as a country, the UK can be even better prepared, providing an excellent service, whilst creating an even more enjoyable experience. Seamus MacCormaic is senior director market management at Expedia.

Advertiser’s announcement

Bristol Balloon Festival.

Credit Gary Newman

Something for all at cosmopolitan city

THINK you know Bristol? Think again…from Brunel to Banksy, Bristol has it all. Discover the cosmopolitan capital of the South West, a laid-back blend of maritime heritage and innovative culture. Bristol is definitely one of the most group-friendly counties in the country. From elegant Georgian Clifton to stylish city-centre shopping, spectacular waterfront, awardwinning attractions, culture, history, top-class eateries and accommodation; there is so much to explore. For inspiration, try our new Best of Bristol itineraries: Bristol Old, New, Borrowed and Blue – Experience Brunel’s ss Great Britain, Clifton Suspension Bridge

and glass-making at Bristol Blue Glass Maritime, Movies and Markets –Enjoy a harbour tour, film locations and historic bustling markets Reel Bristol – Explore Bristol’s rich TV and film heritage with a tour of BBC Bristol or be in the audience of Deal or No Deal A Stylish Taste of Bristol – Take in highlights of Bristol, followed by shopping at Cabot Circus or sophisticated Clifton boutiques Rebellious Bristol – Discover our rebellious side with a tour of the ‘Bristol Riots’ and Bristol’s own Banksy street art revolution Junior Adventures in Bristol – Take a pioneering trip to Mshed, Bristol Aquarium, At-Bristol, ss Great Britain and Bristol Zoo Gardens.

Overwater Hall

Hotel launches Spring break LAKE District hotel Overwater Hall is launching a Spring Forward Break to celebrate the clocks going forward later in March. The hotel is encouraging guests to make the most of the longer, lighter spring days by booking a break and exploring the surrounding areas. The package includes two nights’

bed and breakfast accommodation in one of Overwater’s double rooms, a book of local walks, a picnic for a day out walking, an indulgent cream tea, a champagne aperitif one evening and a four-course dinner in the hotel’s award-winning restaurant on both nights.

Chain introduces kids’ club BEST Western, has launched its first ever Kids Club, BW Kids, to encourage children to get out and explore Great Britain. The aim is to get kids more involved in their trips away and enjoy the travel experience, with the scheme open to those aged between six and 10. As part of BW Kids, members will each receive a welcome pack,

including a membership card, luggage label, collectable sticker book, a half birthday card and full birthday card every year, as well as a Christmas card. A quarterly magazine will also be sent to all members, which features puzzles and stories of Bert and Winnie – two fictional characters created by Best Western to support BW Kids.

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DESTINATIONNEWS

Website highlights some of the best accommodation By Christina Eccles A NEW website has been created to highlight some of the best affordable luxury accommodation available around the UK. The Escape List has launched with a core group of 40 properties, including inns, hotels, cottages and B&Bs – all with at least one room available during the year for less than £150 per room per night. Properties included on the list include The Wheatsheaf Inn in the Cotswolds and CitizenM in Glasgow, with users able to browse the selection of escapes available, read descriptions and reviews and view a selection of images. Trip Advisor links are also included for all properties and mapping technology allows users to calculate journey times and plot routes

without having to leave the website. The idea for the site developed from the personal experience of the two founders – Samantha Goldman and Jaime Rose – who craved escapes from their busy city lives but struggled to find accommodation which matched their tastes and budgets. Jaime said: “Our aim was to create a collection of properties that inspired overworked city workers to get away from it all without breaking the bank or spending hours researching. Our motivation behind building the site was to encourage and celebrate the staycation mindset and develop tourism within the UK. As G. K. Chesterton astutely put it “The whole object of travel is not to set foot on foreign land; it is at last to set foot on one’s own country as a foreign land”.”

Blackpool Tower’s longest serving member of staff has retired. Tom Kellett has been involved with one of Britain’s favourite tourist attractions for 41 years and head of maintenance since 1992 – tasked with leading a team of four dedicated to keeping the landmark in shape. Tom (pictured right) said: “I’m so sad to be leaving but it’s the right time for me to go. I’m sure I’ll be popping in from time to time with the grandkids for a day out and to catch up with everyone. My eldest grandson, Jack, has already made me a wonderful model of the Tower out of matchsticks, which has pride of place on my piano. It’s a reminder of my life here.”

The map launched by the Natural History Museum.

Survey reveals strong levels of optimism

WORK has begun on a series of improvement projects to the South West Coast Path, worth over £250,000. Stage one, a stone pitching project to solve major erosion problems and improve access from Sennen to Land’s End will see 220m of the South West Coast Path pitched with granite. Stage two will then follow, entailing a further 600m of stone pitching to complete the path to Land’s End, along with over 50 other improvement projects throughout 2013. The South West Coast Path Association is also organising the Great South West Walk to celebrate their 40th anniversary. Taking place in April and May, the event will consist of a relay of 56 sponsored walks to cover the whole 630 mile path around Dorset, Devon and Cornwall. Supporters include Jonathan Dimbleby, who will be walking a stretch from Stoke Fleming to Torcross.

A TOURISM Society survey has revealed strong levels of optimism for growth in certain sectors of the UK travel industry this year. The survey, conducted amongst the society’s 1000 plus members, indicated that 74 per cent felt budget airline passenger numbers would increase in 2013 by comparison with full service airlines. Results also suggested the Olympic legacy may play a part in increasing visitor numbers to the UK, with 57 per cent of those surveyed feeling that London hotels would see an increase in occupancies this year. In more general industry related questions, Tourism Society members felt the expansion of UK regional airports was the best solution to

‘Dinosaur capital’ island set for tourism boost TOURISM on the Isle of Wight could be given a mammoth boost after it was named dinosaur capital of Britain by the Natural History Museum. The museum has launched a map identifying hotspots where the monster reptiles once roamed – highlighting the fact the island was once infested by dinosaurs five times longer than London buses.

Produced to promote Primeval: New World, a spin-off to ITV’s series about dinosaur hunters, experts say the island was once home to creatures including the Sauropod – a mighty beast which would have been more than 20m in length – and Europe’s deadliest predator, a giant saw-toothed Neovenator.

Work begins on coastal path improvements

Britain’s capacity issue. They also predicted that India would show the biggest growth in visitors from BRIC countries in the coming year. Tourism Society chairman David Curtis-Brignell said: “The results of our annual survey have revealed some very interesting views expressed by our members and it will be fascinating to see how these predictions stand up as the year progresses. “It is particularly encouraging to note the overall level of optimism shown for trading conditions in 2013 which makes a pleasant change from the gloomy outlook forecast in many recent industry surveys.”

Jonathan Dimbleby will walk a stretch from Stoke Fleming to Torcross.

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DESTINATIONLIVERPOOL

Event planned to replace Mathew Street Festival By Christina Eccles

Liverpool’s spectacular Waterfront.

New campaign highlights city’s cultural offering LIVERPOOL’S cultural offering has been put under the spotlight in a new marketing campaign designed to bring more visitors to the city. Liverpool City Region Local Enterprise Partnership, which encompasses the City’s Region’s tourist board VisitLiverpool, has joined forces with VisitEngland to launch a major new cultural city campaign alongside other destinations in England. The campaign focuses on the rich and varied cultural activities on offer in Liverpool City Region from the waterfront, part of the city’s UNESCO World Heritage Site, award winning theatre, music and literature to world-class museums and galleries as well as a wealth of events and festivals taking place

around the year. Commercial and marketing director at Liverpool City Region LEP Duncan Frazer said: “With our spectacular Waterfront, buzzing restaurants, hip hotels and trendy bars, fabulous shopping, and our world class museums and galleries, Liverpool has one of the strongest destination offers outside London. The City Region appeals to visitors from both the UK and overseas as a lively city break with an exceptional, world class cultural offering.” The campaign incorporates a range of national online, broadcast and print elements in partnership with network radio stations Classic FM and Gold FM, as well as The Guardian, The Daily Mail and Mail on Sunday.

A NEW music festival is to take place in Liverpool this summer, replacing the 20-year-old Mathew Street Music Festival. Liverpool International Music Festival will keep the best elements of the Mathew Street Festival and combine them with new, exciting ingredients to create a celebration of all things music. The event will take place in August, with activities catering for a diverse range of tastes – and highlights will include the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra and chief conductor Vasily Petrenko taking to a brand new stage in Sefton Park for an evening of live music. On the Saturday and Sunday, there will also be two outdoor stages located at the Pier Head which will include a tribute to the Beatles and their musical legacy. Programmed by Mathew Street Music Festival directors Bill Heckle and Dave Jones, it will be a mixture of cover acts and original artists. Mayor of Liverpool, Joe Anderson,

said: “After 20 years of Mathew Street Music Festival it feels right that it evolves into a refreshed event which will have mass appeal. “Over the years the original festival has become more high-profile and as a result it became one of the most costly to stage. It simply isn’t affordable to continue funding this event when we are facing cuts of more than £149m over the next four years. “Liverpool International Music Festival will combine the best of the original event with live music on three outdoor stages. At the same time we’re working with the private sector to put new and exciting events which tap into diverse musical tastes and widen the appeal. “Liverpool City Council is extremely proud of its involvement in the Mathew Street Music Festival, but it feels like the time is right to develop the format and we strongly believe the Liverpool International Music Festival will have broader appeal and will be a popular replacement.”

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DESTINATIONLIVERPOOL

Legend to champion cycle hire scheme CYCLING legend Chris Boardman has signed up to champion a new scheme in Liverpool, set to be the biggest of its kind in the UK outside London. The Liverpool City Cycle Hire Scheme is due to launch this summer and will give a range of people – from commuters and shoppers, to tourists and students – the opportunity to hop on a bike to travel through the heart of the city. Liverpool City Council’s cabinet member for transport, coun Tim Moore, said: “We’re really excited about this scheme. We hope to see a future where hundreds more people are using bikes for their trips around the city, driving up health and fitness levels and reducing congestion and pollution. I’m delighted that Chris shares our vision and has made a commitment to work with us to help make it a reality.” It is expected the scheme will be launched with 300 bikes before being expanded over 18 months to 1,000. Stations will initially be located in the city centre and eventually extended to outlying suburbs.

Firm’s exhibition to feature weird and wonderful

Chris Boardman

LIVERPOOL’S Lantern Company is celebrating its 10th anniversary by bringing together an exhibition of the very best of its weird and wonderful creations. The landmark exhibition, running from March 23 to April 6, will take place at the city’s St George’s Hall and visitors will be able to see the giant illuminated creatures up close, as well as behind the scenes glimpses into the workings and mechanics of the company. Artistic director Jo Pocock said: “Over 10 years we’ve dreamed up an incredible collection of puppets, costumes and characters and we are delighted to have the opportunity to bring them all together in the secret underground world of St George’s Hall in what promises to be a truly unique celebration of the work. “It’s also wonderful to be able to invite people to draw back the curtain on the phenomenal work that goes on behind the scenes.”

One of the creations which will be on show at the exhibition.

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DESTINATIONLIVERPOOL

Brands join forces to create ticket TWO of Liverpool’s biggest global brands have joined forces to create a joint ticket aimed at attracting more visitors to the city. The Rock ‘n’ Goal Tour has been created by Liverpool Football Club and the award-winning Beatles Story attraction and will explore the city’s twin passions – music and football. The joint ticket will include a guided tour around Liverpool Football Club’s stadium – with entrance to the club’s museum included – plus a journey through the life and times of The Fab Four at the Beatles Story. MD of the Beatles Story Jerry Goldman said: “This is a fantastic

Panoramic34 is situated 34 floors up in Liverpool’s West Tower.

Venue celebrates birthday A TOP Liverpool venue has celebrated its fifth birthday. Panoramic34 is situated 34 floors up in Liverpool’s West Tower and includes a fine dining restaurant, cocktail bar and penthouse for private dining and events. Owner and chief executive Cathy Frost said: “Lots has changed at Panoramic34 since its launch, and with the creation of the cruise terminal we have seen a measurable

increase in tourists visiting from across the world. Our quintessentially English afternoon tea has certainly drawn in the international visitors, whilst becoming a favourite with our regular local guests. The last five years has been an incredible journey. We’d like to thank all of our guests for helping us reach this milestone. We’re excited about what it’s in store for the next five years.”

opportunity for people from all over the world to explore Liverpool. We hope that by putting this offer together Beatles Story and Liverpool Football Club will drive even more visitors to this great city.” Commercial tourism manager for Liverpool Football Club Tom Cassidy added: “This is something we’ve been discussing for quite a while and the partnership with The Beatles Story is something people should rightfully be getting excited about, both at home and abroad. “We’ve been to many travel events with The Beatles Story and are delighted to have formalised our partnership with them.”

ACC reaches milestone ACC Liverpool – home to the BT Convention Centre and Echo Arena – has celebrated its fifth birthday. The venue opened its doors on January 12 2008 with the official opening ceremony for Capital of Culture, launching a year-long celebration and signalling the culmination of a decade of regeneration in the city. Since then, ACC Liverpool has attracted almost 3m visitors to 1,100 events and generated £620m in economic benefit for the local economy. Chairman David McDonnell said:

“Prior to opening, it was felt that there was a real need for a venue like ours in Liverpool. Now five years on we’ve proved this was most definitely the case, bringing world class events to the city – the likes of which had never been seen before in Liverpool. We know that the people of Liverpool are proud to have a venue like ACC Liverpool and our aim is to live up to this vote of confidence by continuing to bring fantastic concerts, sporting events, family entertainment and conferences to the city.”

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DESTINATIONHEART OF ENGLAND

Christmas campaign raises city’s profile The Belfry resort near Sutton Coldfield held a special competition to celebrate Valentine’s Day with its visitors. In partnership with Birmingham based jewellery manufacturer Vault 88, the hotel gave a lady taking Champagne afternoon tea during February the chance to win a £500 voucher for a piece of jewellery designed and made by the company. Vault 88’s owners Pete and Jean Smith are pictured with head pastry chef Dean Cole.

Hotel award THE Menzies Welcombe Hotel Spa and Golf Club has won a prestigious award. The hotel scooped an award in the hospitality business of the year category at the Touch FM Pride of Stratford Awards, announced at a ceremony at the Holiday Inn in Stratford-uponAvon.

BIRMINGHAM’S Christmas campaign succeeded in raising the profile of the city during the competitive festive period – attracting record numbers of coach visitors, achieving a 60 per cent rise in press coverage and helping to boost hotel occupancy. Open for Christmas, led by Visit Birmingham in partnership with VisitEngland, aimed to position Birmingham, the Black Country and Solihull as must-visit destinations offering a unique festive experience. The city’s destination marketing agency joined forces with over 15 partners, including Retail Birmingham and London Midland, to deliver the campaign, comprising national and regional advertising, door drops, creative PR, digital, social media and radio promotions with voiceovers from Birminghamborn film star Julie Walters. The campaign delivered strong results, generating nearly £850,000 in positive media coverage across international, national and regional titles with the number of articles increasing by nearly two thirds from the previous year. Birmingham hotels enjoyed occupancy rates of over 80 per cent throughout the festive season –

Birmingham attracted a record number of coach visitors. peaking at 85 per cent in midDecember – with revenues up by 11 per cent compared to the same period in 2011. Bookings with Visit Birmingham’s Meet and Greet welcome service also rocketed with 155 coaches and 7,332 passengers descending on the city’s popular Frankfurt Christmas Market – a rise of 36 per cent and 37 per cent respectively – with enquiries to Visitor Information Services reaching 1.6m, up from about 130,000 the previous quarter. Visit Birmingham’s director of marketing services Emma Gray said: “Working collaboratively with partners has enabled us to pool the

city’s resources and deliver a highly successful Christmas campaign that has helped to boost the profile of Birmingham and the wider region during the competitive festive period. “The ‘Open for Christmas’ campaign targeted visitors to spend a break in Birmingham during the festive period – record numbers of coach visitors, travelling from locations such as Teignmouth and Darlington, high hotel occupancy and increased enquiries to our Visitor Information Services demonstrate that Birmingham is growing in popularity as a festive destination.”

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DESTINATIONSCOTLAND

Largest naturefocused tourism drive launched By Christina Eccles

Local attraction Dunadd Fort.

Summit looks to attract west coast visitors A LANDMARK tourism summit has brought together key figures to explore ways of boosting visitors to Scotland’s west coast. The meeting, held at Inveraray, examined how collaboration enables visitor attractions to pool their resources and promote Argyll as a region to increase footfall. The event was hosted by Cooperative Development Scotland with attendees from organisations including the Scottish Tourism Alliance, Scottish Enterprise and Highlands and Islands Enterprise, as well as the local chamber of commerce. Founder member of the Heart of Argyll Tourism Alliance Carron Tobin said: “The consortium business model is one that is very relevant to

tourism businesses in the region. Some of us have tried to market the area individually, but we’re just one lone voice in a very crowded marketplace. The idea is to showcase the collective destinations of the Mid-Argyll area to boost overall visitor numbers. So an hotelier on the Crinan Canal or the manager of a historic site such as Kilmartin House Museum can reach a bigger audience through a shared collective voice and brand. “We are then in turn working with the umbrella Argyll and The Isles Tourism Cooperative which is taking a strategic approach to marketing this beautiful region and helping us to work effectively with our neighbours like Kintyre, Cowal and Oban.”

Lessons learned from Australia SCOTLAND’s tourism sector is learning lessons from Australia in a bid to develop high quality leadership training for industry professionals. A new leadership development programme, the first of its kind in the UK, is to be rolled out in Edinburgh and St. Andrews, as part of a drive to up the skills of Scotland’s tourism leaders and bring in more visitors. The course, Destination Leadership Programme, is based on an Australian model, the Melbourne Tourism Industry Leadership Programme, which in 2010, was credited with increasing visitor numbers to the city by more than 10 per cent. Tourism director at Scottish 12

Enterprise Eddie Brogan said: “Confident, ambitious leaders are vital to the future growth and success of our tourism companies and that of the industry overall. The DLP has been designed specifically to provide the necessary skills and experience for our tourism leaders to help them work together to develop and deliver a high quality visitor experience and grow tourism revenues in key destinations such as Edinburgh and St Andrews.” The first DLP will begin in October with 50 participants expected to have received an Executive Certificate in Leadership through Edinburgh Napier University by the end of the pilot in 2015.

VISITSCOTLAND has launched its biggest ever nature-focused tourism drive, highlighting the country’s natural environment. The Year of Natural Scotland 2013 is a £3.4m campaign, which is expected to bring a return of some £68m to the Scottish economy. It will target the key domestic market as well as seven international markets – North America, Germany, France, Spain, Italy, The Netherlands and Scandinavia – through a range of marketing activity. Key features will include a new television advert and a major ticket giveaway from Scottish transport providers which will see at least 15,000 people enjoying free travel during April – allowing them to visit a Scottish island or to travel all over Scotland – courtesy of Caledonian MacBrayne, ScotRail and Northlink/Serco. Coach operator Stagecoach has also offered 5,000 money-off vouchers that can be redeemed throughout the month of April. The new TV advert depicts some of the country’s most iconic natural environments. Scenes include gannets on Ailsa Craig off the Ayrshire coast and red deer on the Isle of Rum. Additional scenes show white water rafting in Perthshire, mountain biking at Torridon in the Highlands, the beach at Arisaig in the West Highlands, Pittenweem Arts Festival in Fife, Andy Goldsworthy’s Striding Arches in Dumfries and Galloway and the Aurora Borealis in Shetland.

The campaign is expected to bring a return of £68m to the Scottish economy. VisitScotland chairman Mike Cantlay said: “The Year of Natural Scotland is a wonderful opportunity to showcase Scotland’s spectacular natural environment and our new advert shows the country in all its majestic glory, ranging from wildlife to exciting outdoor activities. “The Big April Adventures is quite simply a magnificent opportunity for people to travel to the wonderful Scottish landscapes for free. We are extremely grateful to Calmac, ScotRail and Stagecoach for their generosity in this initiative and we hope that as many people as possible sign up for these tickets and experience our beautiful country for themselves.” Anyone can apply for tickets for the Big April Adventures and winners will be drawn at random.

Macdonald Rusacks Hotel in St Andrews is to benefit from a £650,000 transformation. Scheduled for completion by the end of March, the investment will see 40 bedrooms, including four junior and senior suites, transformed to complement the classical elegance, comfort and style of the hotel.

Discover Canterbury Nestled in a beautiful corner of East Kent – traditionally known as the Garden of England – the district of Canterbury encompasses the city of Canterbury, the coastal towns of Herne Bay and Whitstable and beautiful surrounding countryside. Canterbury is less than an hour’s train journey from central London and 30 minutes drive from Dover port and the Eurotunnel, so is perfectly located for a day visit. But with so much to see and do in the area it is worth staying longer. Canterbury offers groups a warm welcome along the medieval pedestrian-only streets. Easily explored on foot the narrow, winding lanes and leaning timber-framed buildings blend perfectly with the new, updated areas of the city. Recent investment includes the £26 million refurbishment of the Marlowe Theatre and its original contemporary design complements the skyline with the spires of Canterbury cathedral. The Beaney House of Art and Knowledge has also undergone a major refurbishment and brings a modern fresh look to the building even though it maintains many of its original features. This thriving city has a distinctive independent and charming JOHYHJ[LY PU ^OPJO `V\ ^PSS Ä UK HU HI\UKHUJL VM Ä UL YLZ[H\YHU[Z cafes and pubs where you can enjoy eating al fresco. For those in need of some retail therapy, you will be spoilt for choice with both popular brand names and independent retailers.

There is plenty of accommodation in the district to suit your budget and preferences; from top rated hotels and luxurious B&B’s to budget HUK ZLSM ¶ JH[LYPUN ]LU\LZ JLU[YHSS` SVJH[LK VY ZSPNO[S` M\Y[OLY HÄ LSK A twenty minute drive brings you to the coastal town of Herne Bay. 0U [OL Z\TTLY [OL ZLHMYVU[ NHYKLUZ IYPUN Å VYHS JVSV\Y HSVUNZPKL [OL clock tower and band-stand and the Western Esplanade to Central 7HYHKL PZ SPULK ^P[O IYPNO[S` JVSV\YLK ILHJO O\[Z [OH[ YLÅ LJ[ [OL NYLH[ character of the seaside town. Further along the coast is Reculver Country Park, home to imposing 12th century towers and a Roman fort. To the west of Herne Bay is the historic town of Whitstable which has a wonderful bohemian charm, strong arts culture, array of independent shops and rich maritime history. Groups can also enjoy a visit to Whitstable Castle and Gardens or relax on the Thames Greta sailing barge which spends the summer months sailing from the harbour around the Thames Estuary. With the rolling, green countryside dotted with charming villages, gardens, vineyards and animal parks, the district of Canterbury truly offers you a wonderful choice of things to see and do.

For more information visit www.canterburygroups.co.uk

www.canterburygroups.co.uk

Canterbury Cathedral There are plenty of things to see and do in Canterbury. Most notably is the World Heritage site of Canterbury Cathedral which was founded in 597AD and site of Archbishop Thomas Becket’s martyrdom. The Cathedral offers a wide variety of facilities for groups including guided tours, lectures, choir workshops/recitals and behind-the-scenes tours to the Cathedral archives, library, stained glass studio, stone conservation workshop, vestry or organ loft.

St Augustine’s Abbey Also part of the Canterbury World Heritage Site is St Augustine’s Abbey, one of the oldest monastic sites in England. Group tour highlights include the grave of St Augustine and four Anglo-Saxon Kings of Kent, beautiful atmospheric remains of the impressive and important monastery that include the crypt, various chapels, the nave and cloister. Your guide will explain the Abbey’s historical and religious signiﬁcance enabling you to catch a glimpse of what this glorious building may once have been like.

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www.canterburygroups.co.uk

&REEDOM TO EXPLORE Canterbury is easily explored on foot and there are a number of options available to learn about the city. Guided tours are available throughout the year if booked in advance with Canterbury Guided Tours. Routes and themes of your tour can be arranged [V Z\P[ `V\Y ZWLJPĂ„ J YLX\PYLTLU[Z HUK PU[LYLZ[Z Alternatively, Canterbury Audio Tours provide you with your own personal audio guide, headset and map of the city.

be enjoyed with Canterbury Ghost Tours.

This will allow groups the freedom to explore the areas that interest them in their own time, as part of a group or as individuals. For something a little different, an entertaining blend of history, humour and haunting amongst the old city can

Canterbury is home to Kent County Cricket Club. Packages can be arranged to include food and drink and tickets to a match. Alternatively, experience the game with a 90 minute coaching session at the ground.

If you fancy resting your feet, why not take a river tour with Canterbury Historic River Tours, the Punting Company or Westgate Punts.

Canterbury Historic 2IVER 4OURS Whether you are a group of adults, seniors, students or schoolchildren, Canterbury Historic River Tours offers the perfect way to sample the hidden secrets and beauty of Canterbury and shows you the stunning scenery, fascinating history and rich architecture that graces the cityâ€™s riverbanks. Our guides are well versed PU [HPSVYPUN [OL [V\Y [V [OL ZWLJPĂ„ J ULLKZ of visiting groups, providing a humorous I\[ PUMVYTH[P]L ]PZP[ :WLJPHS ILULĂ„ [Z MVY visiting groups include discounted group rates, free admission for leaders/coach operators, translations for overseas and a free welcome to the city service.

Howletts Wild !NIMAL 0ARK Howletts Wild Animal Park offers an exciting and educational day out for groups and families of all ages. With wooded walkways and paths to explore, along with educational and fun animal talks throughout the day, there is something new to discover around every corner. Home to the UKâ€™s largest herd of African elephants and the worldâ€™s largest collection of western lowland gorillas, visitors can also walk with lemurs and even mimic the agile primates on the Treetop Challenge. For the younger adventurers there is the Animal Adventure Challenge. Discounted admission prices for group bookings are available, with a minimum number of 15 per group. Bespoke extras can also be arranged and both wild animal parks have ample parking for coaches.

The Canterbury Tales A visit to The Canterbury Tales lets you step back in time to experience the sights, sounds and smells of Medieval England. Join Geoffrey Chaucer and his colourful characters on their magical pilgrimage from London to the shrine of St. Thomas Becket in Canterbury. New for 2013, and to mark our silver anniversary, guides will be on hand to entertain, amuse and educate visitors for part of the tour and to add a fun new dimension to the experience for groups. Group beneďŹ ts: Â‹ +PZJV\U[LK HKTPZZPVU WYPJLZ Â‹ -YLL HKTPZZPVU MVY [OL JVHJO KYP]LY group leader. Â‹ -YLL MHTPSPHYPZH[PVU ]PZP[ MVY [OL NYV\W VYNHUPZLY Â‹ 7HJRHNLZ QVPU[ [PJRL[Z ^P[O V[OLY H[[YHJ[PVUZ Â‹ >VYRZOVWZ KLTVUZ[YH[PVUZ HKKP[PVUHS MLL Â‹ -YLL (K\S[ YH[PV

For itinerary ideas and further information on planning your visit go to: www.canterburygroups.co.uk

www.canterburygroups.co.uk

Accommodation & Eating Out There is enough to see and do to justify a short stay in the district. Accommodation is available by the coast, in the countryside or in the city centre to suit all tastes and budgets. The Thanington Hotel is centrally located and offers 15 en-suite rooms and an indoor heated swimming pool where you can relax after a hard day’s sightseeing. Alternatively unwind with a drink in the ILH\[PM\S HUK [YHUX\PS JV\Y[`HYK NHYKLU -VY NYV\WZ the hotel is happy to arrange evening dinner and can HZZPZ[ VU HU` HK]PJL `V\ TH` YLX\PYL MVY `V\Y Z[H` Set within lawned gardens and only a 10 minute walk from the city centre is the Best Western Abbots Barton Hotel. Dating back to 1830 when it was originally built as a private home, the hotel has 53 three-star guest rooms, bar and restaurant and meeting and conference rooms. With free coach parking on-site, groups can take advantage of the hotel’s lunch and afternoon tea-stops.

The University of Kent offers both three/four star-graded selfcatering and bed and breakfast accommodation during the Easter and summer vacation periods. Set in beautiful grounds overlooking the historic city of Canterbury, facilities on the 450 acre campus include a cinema and theatre, a selection of restaurants and bistros as well as superb on-site sports facilities.

@V\ ^PSS Ä UK H ]HZ[ JOVPJL VM restaurants, cafes and pubs, many of which offer locally sourced products to tempt your taste buds. Canterbury is home to restaurants [OH[ YLÅ LJ[ P[Z JVZTVWVSP[HU UH[\YL and offer cuisine from all over the world. Of course there is always [OL [YHKP[PVUHS Ä ZO HUK JOPWZ HUK HU impressive choice of pubs and tea shops. Whitstable is well known for its oysters and it is well worth a visit to one of the many eating establishments in the town or on the harbour.

For more detailed information on where to stay and eat, go to www.canterburygroups.co.uk

www.canterburygroups.co.uk

4HE #ITY !RMS &OUNDRY "REW PUB The City Arms real ale, real food, real pub. A warm, friendly and traditional pub, dating from the 15th Century. Come and enjoy something from our extensive pub menu in a cosy and welcoming environment. Overlooked by the stunning Canterbury cathedral and on one of the most photographed streets in the UK. There’s always a well kept selection of local ales from the region’s best microbreweries. ;OL -V\UKY` )YL^ W\I ¶ SVJH[LK Q\Z[ VMM [OL OPNO Z[YLL[ ;OL -V\UKY` PZ H \UPX\L JYHM[ IYL^LY` YLZ[H\YHU[ and bar. Come and enjoy a pint of hand-crafted Kentish beer or cider in the heart of a working brewery. Alternatively you can relax in our stylish upstairs bar. We also have a great range of food available from classic pub meals, fantastic pies and burgers to our famous ribs, all set in a beautiful nineteenth century iron foundry.

Magnolia House Offering a warm welcome and individual attention to detail which sets it apart from the norm, this lovely Georgian home is just a short walk from Canterbury city centre and high speed train to London. The award-winning breakfasts are a feature, cooked fresh to order using local Kent produce and served overlooking the secluded walled garden. Come and relax with us and experience something special while exploring the city, coast or beautiful Kent countryside for your short break, holiday, relaxing weekend, or business or shopping trip.

&LAGSHIP RESTAURANT *VTL HUK ]PZP[ V\Y ÅHNZOPW YLZ[H\YHU[ PU :[ .LVYNLZ :[YLL[ *HU[LYI\Y` We have inside and outside seating for 300 available. Open from 5am every day. We also have two drive-thru restaurants close by in Sturry road and *OLZ[ÄLSK .YV\WZ HUK *VHJO WHY[PLZ HYL ^LSJVTL All restaurants have disabled access, free Wi-Fi available and baby changing facilities. For full restaurant locations and contact details visit www.mcdonalds.co.uk

Hampton court

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State Beds. The exhibition will feature stunning portraiture and bedchamber furnishings of the time, as well as unusual bedroom artifacts, such as Charles II bedrail, a rare remnant of the bedchamber at the longlost palace of Whitehall. In addition, exclusive for groups, guided tours of Secrets of the Royal Bedchamber will be available for advanced bookings at £100 per group plus VAT for one and half hour tour (additional to admission). Maximum group size 25. For help and advice in organising group visits to any of the historic royal palaces, contact the groups and travel trade team on +44 (0) 20 3166 6311 or Please quote ‘Destination UK March’ when contacting us.

From 27 March a new temporary exhibition opens in the Baroque state apartments, the story of the State Beds gives an insight into the fascinating world of the 17th and 18th Century Court; how it influenced and in turn was influenced by wider political, religious and social changes. The rituals of the bedchamber, from morning levée to evening couchée were performed in and around these magnificent beds. Courtiers embarked on a social climbing venture to get as close to the bedchamber as possible where, if they were deemed worthy, their Monarch would receive them. Secrets of the Royal Bedchamber will reveal not only the extraordinary bizarre rituals of the Stuart and Hanoverian court but will also feature seven of our most rare and magnificent

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DESTINATIONNORTH EAST

Hall and Cottage among winners By Christina Eccles

Singing stars Paloma Faith (pictured above) and Ellie Goulding are among the headliners at a music festival in Newcastle, expected to attract thousands of visitors. The Evolution Festival takes place in the city on May 26 and 27, with other acts performing including Jake Bugg and The Vaccines.

New luxury spa opens its doors A NEW luxury spa has opened at The Morritt Hotel near Barnard Castle. The site of The Garage Spa was originally an ancient stopping station used as a re-fuelling and repairing point for the country’s first motorcars.

A range of car themed treatments will be on offer to visitors, such as a full body MOT, which includes a Green Tea Matcha Body Polish in the spa’s Turkish Hammam bath and a therapeutic body wrap.

ROCKLIFFE Hall near Darlington and Blacksmith’s Cottage in Alnwick were among the winners at the North East England Tourism Awards held at the Sage Gateshead. Organised by NewcastleGateshead Initiative and delivered in partnership with Northumberland County Council, the awards saw almost 400 members of the local business community come together to celebrate the tourism successes of the past year. The full list of Gold winners were: Access for all Tourism Award: The Sage Gateshead. Business Tourism Award: Rockliffe Hall – Hurworth, Darlington. Large Hotel of the Year: Sandman Signature Hotel – Newcastle. Large Visitor Attraction of the Year: Tyneside Cinema – Newcastle and BALTIC Centre for Contemporary Art – Gateshead. Small Visitor Attraction of the Year: Washington Wetlands Centre. Visitor Information Provider of the Year: National Park Centre / TIC Once Brewed – Hadrian’s Wall. Taste of England Award: Blackfriars Restaurant – Newcastle Tourism Experience of the Year Incorporating Best Event: Kielder Water and Forest Park – Northumberland. Caravan Holiday Park / Holiday Village of the Year: Seafield Caravan Park – Seahouses, Northumberland. Bed and Breakfast / Guest Accommodation of the Year: Low Urpeth Farm Bed and Breakfast –

Chester-le-Street, Co. Durham. Small Hotel of the Year: Jesmond Dene House – Newcastle. Tourism Pub of the Year: The Feathers Inn – Stocksfield, Northumberland. Self Catering Holiday Provider of the Year: Blacksmiths Cottage – Alnwick, Northumberland. Sustainable Tourism Award: Woodhorn, Museum and Northumberland Archives – Ashington, Northumberland. Chief executive of NewcastleGateshead Initiative Sarah Stewart said: “The enthusiasm we’ve seen from businesses for this year’s North East England Tourism Awards has been fantastic. The results demonstrate the quality and innovation within the visitor economy from across the whole region and I’d like to congratulate all of the winners on their success. “The judges were highly impressed with the quality of entrants and all of the shortlisted businesses should be proud of their achievements. “The awards have presented an opportunity for the industry to come together and demonstrate the importance and scale of tourism in the North East. I’d like to extend my thanks to everyone who volunteered to judge and deliver what has been a truly spectacular event.” Winners at the North East England Tourism Awards will have the chance to compete on a national stage against those winners from England’s other regions at the VisitEngland Awards for Excellence.

Bamburgh Castle

The king of the castles

BOASTING some of the best views in Northumberland, both seaward to the Farne Islands and landward to the Cheviots, Bamburgh certainly earns its title as ‘king of the castles’. Open all year round, experienced castle guides are happy to take groups through the 14 rooms and explain some of the castle’s fascinating history and point out some of the more unusual items in the collection. There are over 3,000 items in the collection from arms and armour to furniture and artwork. There are opportunities to arrange out of hours tours and even music evenings and specialist talks.

A ‘Keeping the Castle Alive’ programme ensures a series of events and added ‘extras’ takes place throughout the year. 2013 sees the King of The Castles exhibition in the gallery as hundreds of pieces of work by the celebrated Northumbrian artist Peter Philliips are on display in the stables. These depict not only the ‘King’ himself, but the local village and beach as well, painted and drawn in a variety of media. There is parking for several coaches and turning space and we feed and water the drivers. We offer groups of 15 or more a 20 per cent discount on the walk up price and are happy to invoice after the visit.

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DESTINATIONCENTRE STAGE

Jersey Boys celebrates its fifth anniversary in 2013 HIT musical Jersey Boys will celebrate five years in London’s West End this year and has already enjoyed over 2000 performances. The show continues to be a huge seller for short break specialist Superbreak and is one of its top sellers, usually ranking top or second in its theatre break top 10. The show is currently booking through until October 2013 at the Prince Edward Theatre. To date the show has won over 50 awards worldwide, including the prestigious Olivier Award for Best New Musical. Jersey Boys tells the story of how the four original members of the New Jersey band formed and follows their rise to fame, their subsequent successes

and difficulties and their eventual break up. Jersey Boys chronicles the journey of Frankie Valli, Bob Gaudio, Tommy DeVito and Nick Massi from the streets of New Jersey to becoming one of the biggest bands of all time, being inducted in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1990. In the early days the Four Seasons were a far cry from the clean cut image that they grew into. Haunted by debt, petty crime and violence the band struggled through the beginnings of their career. With personal relationships straining and the mafia keeping a watchful eye over them the band were under constant pressure to reach success and pay back their

debts. Jersey Boys features many of the bands huge hits, recognisable across generations. Songs such as Beggin’, Can’t Take My Eyes Off You, Oh What A Night, Walk Like A Man, Bye Bye Baby (Baby Goodbye), Sherry, and Big Girls Don’t Cry keep the audience spellbound. National sales manager at Superbreak Graham Balmforth said: “The show has been seen by 4m people worldwide and continues to be hugely popular in London. “It’s great that it will celebrate five very successful years this year and it continues to be a top seller for us month in, month out.” For more information on Superbreak visit www.superbreak.com/agents

Graham Balmforth

Musical Top Hat was the number one show in 2012 for groups, according to London’s biggest ticket supplier Encore. The company’s three most popular shows were Top Hat, followed by West End success stories War Horse and Jersey Boys.

Batch of tickets produced War Horse has released over 100,000 new tickets for its West End production, taking booking at the New London Theatre to February 15 2014.

Now celebrating its sixth year on the London stage, Nick Stafford’s adaptation of Michael Morpurgo’s book continues to play to sell-out houses.

Edinburgh Lion King packages launched SUPERBREAK has launched packages for Disney’s the Lion King at Edinburgh Playhouse. The show arrives in the city for a three month run from 12 October 2013 to 18 January 2014 – the only Scottish dates on the tour. National sales manager Graham Balmforth said: “The Lion King has not been to Scotland before and we expect this show to draw customers from a huge catchment. Agents 24 have a real opportunity to generate

interest and sales. “This will undoubtedly be one of the hottest theatre tickets of 2013 and possibly one of the most anticipated Scottish musical premiers of all time. “Agents should underestimate how popular The Lion King is – it has been seen by over 65m people and is now in its 14th year in London. Tickets are expected to sell fast so I urge agents to start promoting it now.”

Rattigan’s play set to open TERENCE Rattigan’s The Winslow Boy opens at The Old Vic on March 19. Directed by Lindsay Posner, the play is based on the true story of a father’s fight to clear his son’s name

when he is expelled from Naval College after being convicted of theft. The cast includes Henry Goodman as Arthur Winslow. Picture credit: Jay Brooks

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DESTINATIONCENTRE STAGE

Wicked tickets revealed WEST End hit Wicked has announced a new booking period, with tickets now available for the show until April 26 2014. Based on the novel by Gregory Maguire, Wicked tells the story of an unlikely but profound friendship between two girls who first meet as sorcery students. Their extraordinary adventures in Oz will ultimately see them fulfil their destinies as Glinda The Good and the Wicked Witch of the West. Wicked is on at the Apollo Victoria Theatre.

Louise Dearman as Elphaba.

Declan Bennett and Zrinka Cvitesiç will lead the cast as Guy and Girl respectively in John Tiffany’s West End production of Broadway hit musical Once. The London production will open at the Phoenix Theatre on April 9, with previews from March 16.

Invite to free celebration THEATRE lovers have been invited to gather at the BBC Radio 2 Stage in Covent Garden piazza for a free Olivier Awards celebration. The 37th Olivier Awards with MasterCard, will take place on April

28 and the Covent Garden event will include a big-screen live show relay, as well as live performances from top West End shows, celebrity hosts, special guests and red carpet fashion tips.

Award for Howard and Rosemary ATG’s Howard Panter and Rosemary Squire have topped the The Stage 100 for a fourth consecutive year. The list, compiled annually by the industry’s leading newspaper, ranks the powerhouses of British theatre. This year, the pair share the accolade with the National Theatre. 26

Peter Nichols’ Passion Play is opening at The Duke of York’s Theatre on May 7, starring Zoë Wanamaker. The play is a celebrated black comedy about love and infidelity and directed by David Leveaux. Multi Olivier award winner Zoë plays the role of Eleanor.

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New! Modern Royals at Kensington Palace The red carpet is rolled out for the next installment following the £12m re-presentation project at Kensington Palace, the twentieth century royals. The new exhibition will open on 22 June 2013 and is set within the newly opened Piggott Galleries. The story of the young royals who started their married lives in the various apartments at Kensington Palace will be told through photographs, film footage and costumes from the Royal Ceremonial Dress Collection. The main characters will be Princess Elizabeth and Prince Philip of Greece, Princess Margaret and Anthony ArmstrongJones and Lady Diana Spencer and Prince Charles, the Prince of Wales. Each couple, in

their own day, brought glamour and style to the old and venerable palace, just as the latest generation is doing today. Adding value to the already acclaimed Victoria Revealed exhibition and the stunning King’s and Queen’s State Apartments, Modern Royals ensures the full 300 years of royal history is bought spectacularly to life in this popular attraction. For more information on events and exhibitions for 2013 at Kensington Palace, please contact the Groups & Travel Trade Department on 0203 166 6311 or groupsandtraveltrade@hrp.org.uk. Please quote ‘Destination UK March’ when contacting us.

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DESTINATIONLONDON

Win double for hotel group at ceremony THE Cumberland Hotel has scooped the Individual Hotel or Individual Hostel of the Year award at UKinbound’s annual Excellence Awards. The Cumberland’s parent hotel group, Guoman and Thistle Hotels was also named Hotel Group of the Year at the prestigious event. General Manager Ian Peck said: “To be named as UKinbound’s Hotel of the Year for 2012 is a huge achievement for us. 2012 was such a momentous year for the Capital so it’s a big deal to be commended by UKinbound for our efforts during London’s year in the spotlight, and for our work to support UK tourism as a whole.” Recipients were announced before an audience of over 250 UKinbound members and travel industry guests at a dinner held at the MacDonald Saville Court Hotel on the edge of Windsor Great Park.

Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre has announced details of its 2013 season. Productions of Pride and Prejudice, To Kill a Mockingbird, The Winter’s Tale, The Sound of Music and a Fairytale of New York will all appear at the theatre throughout the year. Across the season, the theatre is also extending its Breeze scheme for those aged 18-25, with over 700 preview tickets available for just £10.

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DESTINATIONLONDON

‘Robust’ West End box office figures revealed in report WEST End box office figures remained robust in 2012, with both ticket revenue and attendance figures slightly up compared to 2011. According to figures from The Society of London Theatre, its members saw gross sales of £529,787,692 – up 0.27 per cent – and attendances also increased by 0.56 per cent to 13,992,773 yearon-year. SOLT has already confirmed that the Olympics had a dampening effect on London theatre sales, partly due to venues closing on the night of the opening ceremony and planning schedules around the Games resulting in fewer performances overall during August. But even with the disruptions of the Olympics, more tickets were sold for the first week of the games than were sold, for example, during the week of the 2011 Royal Wedding.

President of the Society of London Theatre Mark Rubinstein said: “I am delighted that for the ninth year running we are able to report yearon-year growth in ticket income. “It is particularly astonishing that we are able to report increasing sales – of over half a billion pounds – for a year that we always knew would have exceptional challenges. “Against the background of a tough economic climate, London theatre continues to buck the trend, offering dazzling, world-class entertainment, which has audiences from both home and abroad flocking to the West End to catch exciting new productions as well as much-loved long running favourites. With the combined box office advance sales breaking new records we are looking forward to another year of success stories for our theatres.”

Spring opening for Shard restaurant OBLIX, the latest restaurant from the Rainer Becker and Arjun Waney partnership, will open this spring in London’s iconic landmark The Shard.

Located on the 32nd floor, Oblix will offer two distinct venues; a Rotisserie and Grill Restaurant and a dynamic Lounge Bar.

Dresses from fashion designer Issey Miyake’s 132 5. collection are among the items on display as part of the Design Museum’s new Extraordinary Stories About Ordinary Things exhibition. The designs will form part of the exhibition which looks at the inventive uses of plastics and recycled materials. Curator Gemma Curtain said: “Issey Miyake’s work tries to find a balance between the practical and the beautiful, a concept that is as relevant today as it was when he started the fashion house. His constant experimentation with both forms and also production has kept him at the peak of international fashion and design.”

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DESTINATIONLONDON

Tours make a comeback TWO popular tours are to return to The Houses of Parliament for 2013 following their successful launch last year. Royalty and Splendour in the House of Lords and Contemporary Portraiture in Portcullis House are now available to book. Royalty and Splendour in the

House of Lords will run from 5.30pm on selected Friday evenings between March and July and offer an exclusive VIP experience after the doors close to the public. Contemporary Portraiture in Portcullis House will run four times throughout the day on selected Fridays between March and July.

Rufus returns as mascot for second campaign LONDON and Partners has launched the second phase of its London, Now See It for Yourself tourism campaign starring popular mascot Rufus the Corgi. As the face of the campaign, Rufus has already helped thousands of visitors explore a specially designed digital map and microsite on visitlondon.com. Designed and drawn by artist Jenni Sparks, the map for London shows key attractions across the capital and gives a guide to what’s new for 2013, as well as highlighting some of the city’s hidden gems. The second phase of the campaign includes six themed competitions where followers of @findrufus can use clues to where he is hiding in the map each week. Anyone who finds him can then

enter a competition to win a trip to London – with themed trips up for grabs focusing on Romantic London, Foodie London, Active London, Royal London, Film London and Fashion London. CEO London and Partners Gordon Innes said: "We hope to see visitors enticed to the capital to enjoy some of the new attractions such as the Emirates Airline and the Arcelor Mittal Orbit, the new hotels such as Café Royal and Melia International’s ME London and see for themselves some of the iconic locations they saw over this summer during the Games and Diamond Jubilee. We have enjoyed working with a new character for the capital – Rufus the Corgi lets potential visitors see London from a completely new angle.”

A free four-day football celebration is to take place in London from May 23 to 26. The UEFA Champions Festival will be the first major event to come to the home of the 2012 London Olympics since last summer, taking place on The International Quarter close to Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park. UEFA is inviting fans and families to visit the festival and take part in a series of free activities including the opportunity to have photos taken with the UEFA Champions League and UEFA Women’s Champions League trophies.

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DESTINATIONTOURISM SOCIETY

Knowledge is power, insight the key to competitiveness By Ken Robinson CBE FTS

City Hall, Cardiff.

Annual conference THE Tourism Society Conference 2013 takes place on Tuesday July 2 and Wednesday July 3 at City Hall, Cardiff. Join Tourism Society members and guests for two days packed with great information and networking opportunities. A line-up of top speakers will address three areas where professionalism can really count, examining the theme of Inspire – Compete – Regenerate. We all do everything we can to succeed, lead, support and make a

good profit, but it's easy to get sidetracked, take shortcuts, put cost reduction before customer service. Find out what professionalism in the workplace really means at our annual conference. Plus – an evening reception at the Dr Who Experience in Cardiff Bay, informal dinner and study tours highlighting cultural and sporting developments in the region. Book your tickets at www.tourismsociety.org or call 0207 269 9693.

TIMES are tough. Revenues are under threat. Since the loss of the RDA’s £60m a year support that flowed to and through them, DMOs are finding it hard to maintain their services, let alone improve their activities for members. With less local collective help available in most areas, it has never been more important for individual managers to sharpen their efforts. The management challenge is how to at least keep up with, but hopefully outperform, competitors. We all know that despite the Government’s professed recognition of the needs of the industry, and their promised support, they have imposed further cuts to the core funding of VisitBritain and VisitEngland for what are referred to as “administrative costs” – although these are in fact the costs of skilled staff whose expertise is the essential foundation of their successful initiatives. So VisitBritain and VisitEngland can’t help, can they? Well, yes, they can, and they are – but few hard-pressed managers in tourism businesses realise the potentially amazingly valuable information available to them, free of charge, and from my knowledge few make active use of it. I am referring to the extremely insightful research produced by these two boards, which is freely available to all via their websites; VisitScotland and VisitWales provide similar resources. To the great credit of VisitBritain and VisitEngland, they have maintained and even improved these services greatly in recent years, despite the funding cuts. It is not so many years ago that the head of research at one of these boards said: “Our job is to collect reliable data and publish it in a timely manner, but not to attempt to interpret it – that’s for others to do.” So it was that the great lumbering annual surveys would churn out volume and value data, published months after the year ends, good for nothing other than a backwards look at trends. The macro international, national and regional data was hardly relevant to individual businesses, and most managers could do nothing with, or because of, the numbers. Then local data schemes evolved, to produce estimates at the destination level that is useful for local strategies and policies. But few local businesses managed to make profitable use of the numbers.

There are a variety of useful research and data analysis schemes and regular reports available to specific sectors. Examples are for hotels which have always had good comparable data for occupancy and revpar etc and attractions can join the ALVA Benchmarking scheme, from which usable data emerges for each participant. However, I want to wave the flag for the now excellent and potentially highly valuable, and most importantly actionable, research data that is now freely available from VisitBritain and VisitEngland. In both cases the individuals responsible deserve recognition, being the research equivalent of celebrity chefs, who can take ordinary ingredients and, through their skills, produce really amazing and valuable results. First, VisitBritain where David Edwards is the guru whose strategic analysis of the opportunities and challenges we face in the international tourism market place provides incomparably useful information. Any tourism business with substantial numbers of overseas visitors should read David’s regular trends analysis and forecasts. The topic reports, such as culture and heritage, are richly instructive. Market profiles for each of our main source markets are primarily intended for the few larger businesses that market directly abroad, but there useful insights for all businesses into the characteristics and other key data about visitors of each nationality and culture. Second, VisitEngland where remarkably creative insights are now available. Sharon Orrell heads the small team and consistently produces excellent up-to-the-minute analysis of the domestic market, the impacts of the recession, holiday intentions, the differing satisfaction levels with various regions and destinations – the pages of the VisitEngland website are stuffed with really pithy analysis. There are regular reports from a domestic industry panel and very good sectoral analysis. Do yourself and your destination or business a big favour: check out these websites, sign up for the newsletters, delve into the data, think about the place and performance of your business in context – what more can you do to beat or match the best? Knowledge is power; insight is the key to greater competitive success.

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