September 2009

Britain Tourism Product Update 2009

Damien Hirst: ‘No Lost Love’ debuts at The Wallace Collection

The Wallace Collection has just announced an exhibition of 25 new paintings by Damien Hirst including two triptychs, being shown in the UK for the first time. ‘The Blue Paintings’ marks the artist’s return to the solitary practice of painting. Created between 2006 and 2008, these paintings represent a radical departure from the artist’s established working practice.

The exhibition of ‘The Blue Paintings’ at the Wallace Collection, arguably the most intimate national museum in the world, is significant. In contrast to the white walls of a contemporary gallery, Hirst has opted to present these works in a classical context, surrounded by Old Master paintings in the great European tradition at the Wallace Collection.

Very few living artists have exhibited at The Wallace Collection. Hirst joins a select group who have been privileged enough to have shown their work at the museum within their own lifetimes, most famously Lucian Freud in 2004. Hirst will exhibit his paintings in the upper galleries leading on to the Great Gallery at The Wallace Collection.

Oliver Peyton, one of London’s leading restaurant entrepreneurs, will be offering special restaurant deals at The Wallace Restaurant with extended opening on Friday and Saturday evenings until 10pm during the exhibition.

Dates: 14th October 2009 – 24th January 2010

The Wallace Collection, Herford House, Manchester Square, London W1U 3BN

Web: www.wallacecollection.org

Image: The Skull with Ashtray and Lemon. Photography by Prudence Cuming Associates Ltd (Copyright). Damien Hirst All Rights reserved. DACS 2009. Courtesy Damien Hirst and The Wallace Collection.

Private Dining for groups at Culloden

The National Trust for Scotland can now offer private dining for groups of up to 60 at a new 120-seat restaurant at Culloden Battlefield. Until December, the restaurant is offering a 20% discount on selected menus.

Recently awarded 5 star tourist attraction status by VisitScotland, Culloden Battlefield Visitor Centre is one of the best quality experiences on offer by the National Trust for Scotland.

Since opening in 2008, Culloden Battlefield has also gained commendations and awards from The Green Tourism Business scheme and Museum and Heritage awards.

Visitors can use GPS- enabled guides to explore Culloden Battlefield and listen to first-hand accounts of events leading up to the battle of Culloden. More information: www.nts.org.uk

Image: Battle of Culloden Stone (Copyright – Britain on View)

Butlins opens luxury hotel in Bognor Regis

Butlins recently opened its first spa hotel in Bognor Regis. The new property has 200 bedrooms. Called The Ocean Hotel, its spa facilities will satisfy those guests looking for traditional spa experiences as well as some quirky offers including a Premier League massage for men. The spa offers a total of 70 treatments from £20 to just over £100. Room rates pp from £60. For more about staying at The Ocean Hotel: http://www.butlins.com/hotels/ocean-hotel/

Image: The Ocean Hotel, Bognor Regis

Online museum boutique launched

The online venture Culture label, which brings together the retail outlets of 60 British cultural institutions, allowing worldwide access to their products, has been launched. The website enables cultural partners, including the V&A, Royal Academy, Tate, BALTIC, Saatchi Gallery and The British Museum, to showcase up to 24 premium products and introduce their brand to a new consumer audience. The new website is designed to mainly act as a portal to drive new traffic to each institution’s own website to browse and buy.

Web: www.culturelabel.com

Image: Tate Modern, London. Credit Britain on View

It’s the experience that matters – Northern Ireland

Latest tourism intelligence endorses the central theme of NITB’s branding project as the search for creating unique experiences becomes increasingly important. NITB has been working extensively to establish what makes Northern Ireland ‘stand out’ as a unique destination and give visitors the opportunity to meet local people and discover some of the stories which make Northern Ireland such an interesting place to visit and explore.

Recent Mintel research suggests that destination cooking is a key trend for creating this ‘unique experience’. NITB recognises that food and drink are vital elements in taking full advantage of the ‘real’ and being able to deliver distinctive and authentic experiences for visitors.

An example of a famous cookery school in Northern Ireland is ‘Belle Isle’ in County Fermanagh, http://www.irish-cookery-school.com/index.html. Current courses on offer: http://www.irish-cookery-school.com/courses/index.php. Weekend courses are particularly popular amongst visitors where cooking is very much focused on the use of seasonal produce.

Image: County Fermanagh, Northern Ireland. Credit Britain on View and Belle Isle Cookery School, County Fermanagh

National Library of Scotland

A letter written by Mary, Queen of Scots to her brother-in-law Henri III of France, hours before her execution at Fotheringhay castle in 1587 is to go on display to launch the official opening of a new visitor centre at the National Library of Scotland in Edinburgh on 15th September. The letter was last seen in public some thirty years ago. The new visitor facilities are the result of a £2.24 million investment programme.

Other artefacts on display until 8th November 2009 will include a Gutenberg Bible (only 1 of 20 surviving complete copies) , David Hume’s autobiography in both manuscript and book form (famous Scottish philosopher, historian and economist), some original artwork from Alasdair Gray’s Lanark, Three Blind Mice (was, until recently, the world’s smallest book) and a first edition of Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen.

Web: www.nls.uk

Image: External National Library of Scotland

75th anniversary – Curzon Cinemas

Independent cinema chain Curzon is running a series of classic films, this month, to celebrate its 75th anniversary including Derek Jarman’s Jubilee and Oscar winning Gigi. www.curzoncinemas.com.

Curzon cinema outlets include Chelsea, Soho, Mayfair, Richmond and The Renoir. Discounted tickets will be available on Mondays throughout September as well as the opportunity to see two special exhibitions at the cinemas.

NB: New British films being released during September 2009 include the very quirky comedy film ‘Morris: A life with bells On’ www.morrismovie.com http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1029342/and a romantic biopic about Charles Darwin called ‘Creation’ www.creationthemovie.com, directed by Jon Amiel and starring husband and wife team Paul Bettany and Jennifer Connelly. Other release dates information about this film can be accessed from: http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0974014/releaseinfo

Image: Curzon Cinema, Mayfair, London

British music festivals

Around one million people will have attended an overnight music festival this Summer, from the tent city of Glastonbury to Womad in Wiltshire, the Wychwood Festival in Cheltenham, to the Reading Festival, and this week, around 30,000 revellers parking themselves on Robin Hill Country Park on the Isle of Wight for the annual Bestival. British music festivals are now a key part of Britain’s annual cultural offer. Festivals including Glastonbury and V Festival (£152 for weekend pass with camping) are now inviting people to register or are starting to sell tickets for 2010. http://www.vfestival.com/tickets and http://www.glastonburyregistration.co.uk/

Image: Sea of tents at Glastonbury. Credit Britain On View – Jon Spaull

London Fashion Week

This month marks the 25th anniversary of London Fashion Week 18th-23 September. The past 25 years has seen London earn its place as one of the four leading fashion capitals alongside New York, Milan and Paris. 25 years ago ground-breaking designers included Paul Smith, Vivienne Westwood and Betty Jackson; the 90’s saw John Galliano, Alexander McQueen and Hussein Chalayna launch their careers, today London Fashion Week showscases iconic designers and brands as well as championing new stars such as Giles, Erden, Christopher Kane, Marios Schwab and Louise Goldin. London Fashion Week is organised by The British Fashion Council which is also celebrating its 25th anniversary throughout 2009 and the 25th anniversary of London Fashion Awards seen by many as the ultimate accolade for those working in the British Fashion Industry .

London Fashion Week moves to Somerset House and 180 The Strand, WC2 this season. Somerset House will house the British Fashion Council catwalk show venue. During its life LFW has had several homes including Natural History Museum, Duke of York’s, Battersea and Olympia. This new partnership with Somerset House sees London Fashion Week, for the first time, located in the heart of London and allows a new approach to be developed as a legacy for the 25th celebrations.

The exhibition at LFW is open for the duration of the womenswear shows- 10.00-19.00 from Friday 18th September until Tuesday 22nd September 2009. www.londonfashionweek.co.uk

This year’s London Fashion Weekend will also be extended to run 24-27 September. Many of the high-profile designers will be involved at the long weekend at London’s Somerset House. For more information go to: www.londonfashionweekend.co.uk

Somerset House will also mark the opening of a major exhibition called SHOWstudio: Fashion Revolution. Led by Nick Knight, it will open up the world of fashion to a wider audience. The exhibition will run from 17th September - 20th December 2009. www.somersethouse.co.uk

One of the most favourite of places for visiting fashionistas is the The Bentley Hotel, London. There’s a special package during London Fashion Week. Cost £299 inc VAT for two people in a twin or double room. Beyond London Fashion Week, The Bentley Hotel also offers a variety of tempting packages. For more information: http://www.thebentley-hotel.com/

Images: Bentley’s Hotel , Somerset House, London & SHOWstudio: Garreth- Portrait- v4-CMYK.tif Gareth Pugh, 2008

Goldsmiths’ Fair 2009

Goldsmiths’ Fair stands alone as the largest and most inspirational selling event of its kind in Europe. For the past 27 years it has presented an irresistible array of fabulous designer jewellery and unerringly stylish silverware designed and made by some of Britain’s most exciting talent.

This year’s Fair is no exception. Over a period of two weeks (from Monday September 28 through to Sunday October 11 - closed Monday October 5) 160 highly original designer-makers from all over the country converge on Goldsmiths’ Hall to present their latest designs. With a change-over of exhibitors mid-way through a visit to the Fair in both weeks is recommended to enjoy and benefit from the full display of talent.

Established jewellers and silversmiths, many of whom have works in major national and international museums and collections, exhibit side-by-side with young break through talent all eager for recognition.

In addition, the Fair accommodates every personal taste, style and budget (pieces start from £60) for both women and men and the choice of treasures on offer is overwhelming from cutting-edge and flamboyant to classic and restrained.

Goldsmiths’ Fair is where imagination, artistry and talent combine to make precious works of art which are highly original and a far cry from the turgid monotony of mass production. Held inside Goldsmiths’ Hall in the City of London, a visit to the Fair also offers a rare glimpse of the luxuriantly gilded interiors of this exquisite 19th Century treasure.

Week 1: September 28 to October 4; Week 2: October 6 to October 11 (closed Monday October 5)

OPENING TIMES: Monday to Friday 11am to 7pm;Saturday and Sunday 10am to 6pm

VENUE: Goldsmiths’ Hall, Foster Lane, London EC2V 6BN; www.thegoldsmiths.co.uk

Images: Angela Cork Goldsmiths’ Fair, Taniguchi Goldsmiths’ Fair

Greyhound heads for UK

America’s iconic Greyhound buses are heading to the UK. FirstGroup, the British company that owns Greyhound Lines, will start (14th September) operating with hourly services from London to Portsmouth and Southampton. The company hopes to add further destinations from 2010 following evaluation work on these two new services.

The launch follows the purchase of Greyhound’s parent company Laidlaw International by Scottish-based FirstGroup two years ago for £1.9bn.

FirstGroup is aiming to emulate BoltBus, an American division of Greyhound targeted at younger travellers, who might not want to pay the extra to travel by rail. Fares start from £1.50, and include free wi-fi on the buses.

Overseas enquiries from the travel trade can be directed, for the time being, to

Services will arrive and depart from Bullied Way, Victoria Railway Station London.

For more information: www.greyhounduk.com

Image: New Greyhound Bus Service

Westfield’s 1st Birthday

T o mark their first birthday on 30th October, the retailers at this largest shopping mall in Europe, will offer discounts and goodies to all shoppers. Other highlights marking the celebrations will include a huge Westfield birthday cake made from 365 cupcakes, a free concert and musical performances from West End shows. Westfield (located in West London) has its own dedicated underground station, Wood Lane and a bus terminal.

www.uk.westfield.com/london

Images: Westfield Shopping Centre (Exterior)

Exciting new additions to Wimbledon Lawn Tennis Museum

 A new addition known as CentreCourt360 has now opened taking a visit to Wimbledon Lawn Tennis Museum to a heightened level.  The two part expansion of the Museum includes a new viewing platform and two interactive rooms within Centre Court. 

Guests can enjoy a 360 degree view of the arena while exploring the new viewing platform.  This platform brings visitors only steps away from the famous grass, providing an up close view of the court from the eyes of a spectator.  Interactive touch screens highlight the main features of the venue and deliver a complete overview of Centre Court in eight languages. 

The Museum’s upgraded viewing platform will improve on the capacity of its predecessor, bringing guests lower into the bowl, and create a much more engaging Museum visit.  The CentreCourt360 exhibit will be open year-round except during the Championships and adjacent periods.

Following the 2009 Championships the Museum also received several notable items which are currently on display including clothing from Roger Federer and the Williams sisters.

 Thanks to Federer visitors to Wimbledon Lawn Tennis Museum will have the fantastic opportunity to view the very kit he wore when he made history by claiming the record breaking 15th Grand Slam title in the men’s Wimbledon Final. The items of the kit which attracted increasing attention during the Championships, include the famous military style jacket along with his shirt and racket from the final.

 Visitors to Wimbledon Lawn Tennis Museum will also have the fantastic opportunity to view Serena Williams’ Nike Mirabella Naxair shoes and Nike wristbands and Venus Williams’ ‘11’ brand dress and wristbands that the sisters wore as they faced each other in the 2009 Women’s Final.

In the eighth time that the sisters have gone head to head in a Grand Slam title, Serena emerged victorious as the 2009 Women’s Champion before going on to win the Women’s Doubles with sister Venus.  Donating the dress and wristbands from her own ’11’ fashion label, Venus demonstrates her talents on and off the court, while Serena’s shoes have the numbers 02 and 03 in heart shaped frames, celebrating her last two victories at Wimbledon. 

 All of these items are currently on display in the Championships 2009 showcase.

 Other museum opportunities for guests this year include longer hours of operation and larger tour group sizes.   The Museum hours are now 10am to 5pm, giving more time for visitors to enjoy it.  Increased tour groups will allow more guests to view the No.1 Court, the Picnic Terraces and water Gardens with their fantastic views across London, The Millennium Building and Press Interview Room, and the BBC Television Studio.

Booking is essential for the Tour.  For up-to-date information visit www.wimbledon.org/museum or tel: 00 44 (0)20 8946 6131.

Images: Wimbledon Lawn Tennis Museum Tours 360 Pod (1), Wimbledon Lawn Tennis Museum Tours 360 Pod (2)

Blenheim plans festival of nostalgia

Memories of past festive celebrations will come alive again at Blenheim Palace this winter with their Christmas Nostalgia – Toys, Treats and Treasures programme running from November 14th – 13th December.

The palace will be decorated with displays bringing back childhood memories; fires in the State Rooms; Christmas trees in the Great Hall and the Long Library will be adorned with treats and treasures of Christmas nostalgia, and in the Saloon the Marlborough family’s spectacular Christmas table will be prepared for a teddy bear’s feast.

Additional activities for the festive season will include a crafts fair; performance of Handel’s Messiah and carol singing.

For more information go to www.blenheimpalace.com

Image: Blenheim Palace. Credit Britain on View.

Boath House, Nairn, Scotland

The Boath House Hotel in Nairn can boast a new award with its head Chef Charlie Lockey being made Scottish Chef of the Year 2009. The fine-dining restaurant has also been voted one of Scotland’s top 10 best restaurants and also has four AA rosettes and a coveted Michelin Star. For more information go to: www.boath-house.com and Email: info@both-house.com. For information about Mid-week, Weekend, Romantic and special Christmas breaks 2009 go to www.boath-house.com/news.htm. Offers are valid from 1st Oct 2009 – March 31st 2010

Image: Boath House

And.....

In a recent announcement by Livebookings.com, it was reported that although there are less than 10% of restaurants in the UK using an online booking system, the number of diners reserving a table, online, is growing at more than double the rate last year. One of Britain’s largest on-line restaurant booking websites is www.toptable.com.

Image: St Christopher’s Place, London. Credit Britain on View.

Science in Focus: Portraits of Scientists

Two newly acquired collections of photographs of scientists against backgrounds relevant to their pioneering work will form a new display at the National Portrait Gallery. Colour portraits by Anita Corbin and John O’Grady, exhibited for the first time in the UK, will be shown alongside black and white portraits by Anne-Katrin Purkiss.

The eleven colour photographs on show by husband and wife team, Corbin O’Grady Studio, were commissioned by the British Council in 1989. The scientific pioneers in this series are Joe Farman, John Maynard Smith, Michael Green, Cesar Milstein, Antony Hewish, Sir Geoffrey Wilkinson and Frederick Sanger.

Black and white portraits by Anne-Katrin Purkiss are of Sir Alex Jeffreys, Sir John Brian Pendry, Frances Mary Ashcroft, Sir Tom Blundell, Lord Darzi, Sir Martin Evans, Sir Tim Hunt and Dame Louise Johnson.

The display will celebrate the achievements of scientists from a diverse range of fields. For example, in the 1980’s, Joe Farman’s research in Antartica led to the discovery that emissions from man-made gasses depleted ozone and as a result the Montreal Protocol (1989) was created.

National Portrait Gallery, St Martin’s Place, London WC2. Nearest Underground: Leicester Sq/Charing Cross. Late Openings: Thursday/Friday 10.00am-9pm

Web: www.npg.org.uk

Images: National Portrait Gallery - Antony Hewish (1924-), Radio Astronomer by Anita Corbin and John O’Grady, 1989. Copyright Anita Corbin and John O’Grady. Sir Tim Hunt (1943-)Principal Scientist, Cancer Research UK by Anne-Katrin Purkiss May 2008. Copyright Anne Katrin Purkiss. For use only in relation to Science in Focus: Portraits of Scientists.

VisitLondon Travel Trade

VisitLondon has launched new travel trade section within its award-winning website to provide a resource for the travel industry to help promote leisure and business travel to the Capital.

Organised under four main headings – Travel Trade Toolkit, London for Groups, London 2012 and About Us – the useful site is packed full of information. www.visitlondon.com/trade

Image: The London Eye & The River Thames under blue skies. Credit visitlondonimages/britainonview/Pawel Libera.

Darwin Centre Opens

The new Darwin Centre at London’s Natural History Museum opens 15th September 2009. The 8-storey, £78 million landmark building will allow visitors to explore world-class science in action in a dramatic new public space. The Darwin Centre is the largest development in the museum’s 128- year history and has, at its heart, a 65-metre Cocoon structure housing 20million exhibits. Sir David Attenborough (British naturalist/broadcaster) and Prince William will be amongst guests attending the official opening next week. http://www.nhm.ac.uk/visit-us/galleries/orange-zone/darwin-centre/

Images: Darwin Centre. Copyright Torben Eskerod, Natural History Museum, London and Darwin Centre, Cocoon. Copyright Torben Eskerod, Natural History Museum, London

Mary Rose to be withdrawn from public view

The Mary Rose, at Portsmouth Historic Dockyard, is to close on 20th September to allow construction work to begin on a new £35m museum.

Portsmouth Historic Dockyard will organise a special series of events and activities during the temporary closure of the historic Tudor warship attraction, which will remain out of public view until 2012. http://www.historicdockyard.co.uk/

Image: Mary Rose, Portsmouth, Hampshire. Credit Britain on View.

Pop Life: Art in a Material World

Tate Modern’s Autumn hit blockbuster exhibition Pop Life looks at how artists since the 1980’s have cultivated their public image as a product, and created a mix of media, glamour and commerce to build their own ‘brands’. Andy Warhol, the grandfather of pop, will, of course be featured along with Jeff Koons’ stainless steel rabbit, iconic butterfly and golden spot paintings by Damien Hirst from his famous 2008 auction and a reconstruction of Keith Haring’s Pop Shop in New York.

The exhibition will run from 1st October 2009 – 17th January 2010. Web: www.tate.org.uk

Image: Tate Modern, Bankside, London. Credit Britain on View

Magical London at Red Carnation Hotels

Red Carnational Hotels, a luxury 4 and 5 star family-run boutique hotels group, is offering a special Christmas in London package. Those who stay for a minimum of two nights between the 1st of December 2009 and the 4th of January 2010 will have the opportunity to enjoy:

- Two nights accommodation in a beautifully appointed bedroom, suite or even a luxury, fully serviced apartment

- A warming glass of mulled wine or a mug of the ultimate hot chocolate on arrival

- Full English Breakfast daily

- A festive afternoon tea

- A festive turndown treat at bedtime

- Free movies for those who want to snuggle up with a great film

- A 6pm check-out on the day of departure

- Guests staying on Christmas Eve receive a Christmas stocking full of delightful surprises and there's even a Christmas Tree in the room for all those who book suites!

London Red Carnation have six properties in London including The Milestone, The Egerton House Hotel, 41, The Montague on the Gardens, The Chesterfield Mayfair and The Rubens at the Palace.

Rubens Palace, for example is offering the Magical London package from £185 per room, per night based on a 2 night stay using their Classic Double room.

For more information: http://www.redcarnationhotels.com/

Image: Magical London Red Carnation Hotels

Cadbury’s World opens new zone

Cadbury’s World, the Birmingham-based visitor attraction has opened a new advertising-themed zone.

Advertising ‘avenues’ have been created to allow visitors to take a ‘walk through time’ in a life-sized street featuring Cadbury’s adverts from years gone by.

The street is made to look and feel like chocolate and begins in the 1830’s when John Cadbury first began selling his famous drinking chocolate to residents of Birmingham.

Cadbury’s World opened in 1990 and remains the only purpose built visitor centre in the UK devoted entirely to chocolate and the heritage of one of the UK’s best-loved brands.

More than 8.5m people have visited Cadbury’s World since it opened.

Adult tickets costs £13.45, Children 10.30. Ticket prices for groups of 15 people of more: Adult £10.30 (Peak); £9.00 Adult (Off-Peak); Children £8.10 (Peak); Children £6.85 (Off-Peak).

For more information go to: www.cadburyworld.co.uk

Image: Cadbury’s World Advertising Zone

Manchester United and Team Spirit

Manchester United has joined forces with Team Spirit to offer conference and event delegates a range of new team building options. The five new activities include ‘Samba in the Stands’, ‘Top of the League’, ‘On the Ball’, ‘Football Funfair’, and ‘Family Fun Day’. Each has a football theme and can be used for a mix of team building, motivation and entertainment. All of these themes have been specifically designed for use at Manchester United’s Old Trafford facilities.

Examples of packages: ‘Samba in the Stands’ – 90 minutes to 2 hours, 12- 500 people/Indoor and Outdoors, £975 set fee plus £29 per delegate plus vat; ‘Top of the League’ – 60 minutes to 2 hours, 15-200 guests/Indoors, Daytime/Evening, £1695 set fee plus £25 per delegate plus vat.

For more information: http://www.manutd.com/default.sps?pagegid={91EAE2EA-AE24-42AE-9FCE-94E551E8C567} or contact the Conference & Events Team on 00 44 (0)161 868 8000 (Option 3) or conference@manutd.co.uk

Image: Boy dressed in Manchester United kit on father’s shoulders. Credit Britain on View

2012 Games Update

Kent predicting £300million windfall from London 2012 

Chris Hespe, the head of Sport, Leisure and Olympics at Kent County Council, claimed that with several training venues across Dartford and Gravesend, where overseas team will prepare for their events, and excellent transport links North Kent is in prime position to benefit. He said "It will do amazing things for the Thames Gateway area by raising awareness worldwide. You are talking about enormous international exposure. It is estimated that Kent will benefit from £324million in tourism spending between 2008 and 2016 as a direct result of the Games."  http://www.insidethegames.com/show-news.php?id=6512

Villa Park pull out opens Olympic door for Coventry   

London 2012 officials have decided against using Villa Park for the preliminary stages of the Olympics because the club cannot guarantee that planned building work will be completed in time. Aston Villa and Birmingham City Council have been at the forefront of trying to exploit the potential opportunities offered by London hosting the Olympics. London 2012 said it is "looking at options for replacing Villa Park" but they plan to find an alternative in the Midlands (a possible candidate is Birmingham City ) http://www.insidethegames.com/show-news.php?id=6386

International sailing teams able to train at Weymouth before the Games  

WPNSA is allowing international teams to train in Weymouth and Portland leading up to the Games. Overseas teams are invited to base themselves at the WPNSA using the completed facilities. Packages tailored to the size of the team are available on an annual or 3 year basis  http://www.wpnsa.org.uk/pressreleases.htm#foreign

Beijing bus launched as 2012 first toy by Hornby

The replica of the bus used in the Beijing-London handover will be 5-inches high and costs £30. It will be on sale in shops from November.  http://www.thisislondon.co.uk/standard/article-23731793-details/Next+stop+2012+Olympics:+Hornby's+model+bus+with+a+30+ticket/article.do

Royal Mail launches major series of Olympic Stamps for London 2012  

Royal Mail has commissioned some of Britain ’s most exciting artists and illustrators to create three sets of stamps to be issued in the run up to the London 2012 Games. A total of 30 1st Class stamps will be issued in the Olympic and Paralympic Games series, with the first ten going on sale on 22 October 2009. http://www.news.royalmailgroup.com/news/article.asp?id=2595&brand=royal_mail

Hotel rooms in London to grow by 12% by 2012 

According to new research from Visit London and TRI Hospitality Consulting (Hotel Development Monitor) future hotel development in London remains robust with development projects concentrated in the budget and high-end markets. The forecasted number of new bedroom supply in 2010 is expected to surpass all levels experienced since 1989, with an estimated 4,300 bedrooms projected to enter the market.  http://www.insidethegames.com/show-news.php?id=6468

Olympic Stadium could host 2013 Rugby League World Cup Final 

The Olympic Stadium or Wembley, which is due to host the semi-finals and finals of the football tournament during the 2012 Games, are among venues currently being considered as possible hosts of the 2013 Rugby League World Cup, which was awarded to the United Kingdom at a meeting in Singapore last month.    http://www.insidethegames.com/show-news.php?id=6349

Chocolate Breaks on England’s South Coast

I know we have covered some of the latest additions to Cadbury’s World in Birmingham in this issue but you might also be interested in the following property on England’s South Coast.

The Chocolate Boutique Hotel has to be a ‘one-off’ and is totally themed around the subject of chocolate - dear to a lot of our hearts!

The Chocolate Boutique Hotel is a grade II listed building with 13 unique chocolate themed bedrooms which provide accommodation for up to 25 people.

The boutique hotel is located in West Cliff, just 5 minutes from Bournemouth town centre, Bournemouth International Conference Centre and its award winning beaches.

The hotel has some popular weekend/short breaks from £279 per person based on 2 sharing. The breaks include a 2 night stay, breakfast and lunch as well as chocolate workshops over two days learning about the art of chocolate making as well as having a go. When you stay at the boutique hotel you can even order your own chocolate fountain for use in your bedroom! Now that’s a good idea!

For more information go to: www.thechocolateboutiquehotel.co.uk

Image: The Chocolate Boutique Hotel, Bournemouth

Frieze Art Fair

The world renowned Frieze Art Fair is happening again, this October, in Regent’s Park, London. It aims to feature some 150 plus contemporary art galleries from around the world. As well as these exhibitors, the Art fair includes specially commissioned projects and an absorbing talks programme.

The Frieze Art fair runs from 15th-18th October. Tickets bought before 1st October are available from £10.

This year John Baldessari, Hella Jongerius, Sylvere Lotringer and Agnes Varda all form part of the international line-up of filmmakers, designers and artists making up Frieze Talks 2009

For more information: www.frieze.com

Image: Frieze Art Fair, London. Copyright Lynda Nyland

QHotels become the latest recruit to GTBS

An award winning luxury hotel chain has joined forces with the world’s leading green business accreditation scheme in a bid to help save the planet.

QHotels, which boasts 21 Four Star hotels throughout the UK from as far north as Cumbernauld near Glasgow to Winchester in Hampshire, has joined the Green Tourism Business Scheme (GTBS).

The GTBS is the leading sustainable tourism certification scheme in the UK honouring businesses that demonstrate high levels of commitment in protecting the environment and promoting sustainable tourism with Bronze, Silver and Gold awards.

Award winners are scrutinised on more than 145 separate measures by qualified assessors before being appointed the relevant award. The GTBS is one of the world’s most rigorous green accreditation schemes and already has more than 2,000 members across the UK.

QHotels, the AA Hotel Group of the year (2008-09), have managed to bring all of their properties up to GTBS Bronze standard in just three months and nine of their opulent hotels have scored a Silver rating.

Some of the greenest practices adopted within the group include the use of the latest LED lights, condensing boilers, and the installation of ultra violet filtration in swimming pools which reduces the need for chlorine.

For more information about QHotels: www.qhotels.co.uk. Offers currently available can be accessed from: http://www.qhotels.co.uk/offers.aspx

Images: Q Hotel - The Cambridge Belfry – and Q Hotel - The Cheltenham Chase Hotel

Salisbury Cathedral 1215 Magna Carta inscribed in UNESCO ‘Memory of the World’ register

Salisbury Cathedral, home to the finest of the four surviving copies of the original 1215 Magna Carta, is delighted that this famous and historic document which forms the basis of many modern democracies worldwide has been inscribed in the UN Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) ‘Memory of the World’ register in recognition of its outstanding international value.

The Cathedral, perhaps England’s finest medieval example of its kind, is also famous for possessing the country’s tallest spire (404 ft) and welcomes over ¼ million visitors a year with over 50% of overseas visitors stating that the chance to see the famous Magna Carta is a major reason for their visit.

The inscription on the UNESCO register means the ‘great charter’ joins the ranks of some of the world’s most globally significant documentary heritage. The personal liberties it laid out have been incorporated into the English Bill of Rights 1688, the American Declaration of Independence 1776 and the Universal Declaration of Human Rights approved by the General Assembly of the United Nations in 1948. Magna Carta’s basic principles have also been used in the constitutions of Japan, France, Germany, Australia and many other countries.

Salisbury Cathedral tours: The Cathedral offers a range of tours and is happy to customise them for visitors upon request. It has a close relationship with a variety of other attractions in the area and can provide combined packages, for example to Old Sarum (the site of the earliest settlement in Salisbury) and Wilton House. Tours can also be tailored for those with special interests in embroidery, stained glass, architecture, art or sculpture. Private evening tours are also available for extra exclusivity. For all general enquiries, details of special packages and bookings, please contact Fiona Nelder 01722 555124, email: f.nelder@salcath.co.uk We recommend booking in advance for groups, customized tours, non-English languages and any other special requirements. Admission: Donations recommended. Group booking rates (pre-booked rates, minimum 15 people) £3.75 per adult, £2.50 per child (5- 17 years) Facilities: Guided / self guided tours (Tower tour: 90 minutes- book in advance), Restaurant, Shop, Disabled access.

www.salisburycathedral.org.uk

Image: Cathedral, Salisbury, Wiltshire, England. Credit Britain on View and Magna Carta.

The Royal Garden Hotel, London

Enjoy a three night weekend break at the Royal Garden Hotel this autumn; pay for two nights and the third is free. Guests can take advantage of the hotel's prime location and enjoy a weekend away in the Capital; taking a relaxing stroll round the neighbouring Kensington Gardens or indulging in some retail therapy in the busy shopping districts of Knightsbridge and Kensington.  Closer to home, the hotel's Soma Centre, an holistic integrated health and exercise centre offers a wide range of beauty and massage treatments for the ultimate in pampering. Foodies need not miss out either with the renowned Min Jiang restaurant, located on the 10th floor of the hotel.  The restaurant offers panoramic views of London and the Royal Parks combined with authentic Chinese cuisine, including a wide range of dim sum and other regional specialities.

The offer is available every weekend (Friday to Sunday) throughout September and October at the rate of £170 for a Superior Double bedroom per room per night and includes full English breakfast and VAT.

Royal Garden pays agents 10% on any room reservations and can be accessed via Sabre, Galileo, Worldspan and Amadeus. Enquiries can also be directed to sales@royalgardenhotel.co.uk

www.royalgardenhotel.co.uk

Image: The Royal Garden Hotel

More than Good Manners

More Than Good Manners offers you the opportunity to experience life of the British ‘country and city set’. Veronica Joly de Lotbiniere and her husband Giles are directly descended from Kings, Queens, Dukes, General and Ambassadors and thus offer their guest an ‘entree’ into an aristocratic way of life.

Guests will enjoy programmes based on the traditions and experiences of the British aristocracy and royalty. From a hunt ball to an introduction to her Majesty’s Royal Vintner, from learning to fly a golden eagle to a day out at Royal Ascot.

The elite range of historic houses and stately homes are steeped in history and tradition. While there you will be hosted by Dukes and Earls who are very much part of Britain intricate tapestry of British history.

In all areas of well-to-do life More than Good Manners tailors bespoke stays for guests with the most varied of tastes from lunch with a Duchess to a private tour of the Jockey Club, home of British racing.

For hundreds of years the British aristocracy have enjoyed the privileged life of the countryside, based around shooting, hunting, fishing in the winter and the enjoyable ‘seasons’. This is your opportunity to experience it at close quarters. For more information: www.morethangoodmanners

Image: Veronica Joly de Lotbiniere

Ice skating – Somerset House

Somerset House has announced dates for its popular Christmas/New Year Ice Rink. The Rink will be open from 18th November 2009 – 24th January 2010. For more information: www.somersethouse.org.uk

Image: Ice Rink, Somerset House. Credit Gideon Mendel

Hotels for Families

Hotelsforfamilies.co.uk is the fastest growing website for “Family, Friendly Accommodation” in the UK. Search by Region, County and Town to find hotels who are pleased to accommodate families with children.

The website, Home Page, includes sponsored links to hotel groups, special offers and featured accommodation which will give you loads of inspiration. So if you know where you want to go or you need ideas, this is the place to look.

Hotels featured on the website are listed with multiple pictures, plenty of information and direct contact details including links to their own websites. Bookings are made directly with the hotels listed on www.hotelsforfamilies.co.uk

Image: Accommodation. Credit Britain on View. Rod Edwards.

The Majestic Line – a foodie themed cruise

On Saturday, 17th October 2009, The Majestic Line is launching a cruise called ‘The Taste of South Argyll’. Over a total of six nights, the Glen Tarsan will cruise around the Kyles of Bute, Loch Fyne and Arran stopping at a variety of premier food and drink producers each day.

Guests, during the cruise, will also be dropped off in various locations to take guided tours and , of course, sample delicious artisan food and drink. Wine and whisky tastings will be organised on board with one of Argyll’s leading vintners.

For more information: www.themajestline.co.uk

Image: Isle of Arran, Lochranza, Strathclyde. Credit Britain on View.

Museum of London (announces trade rates for group tours)

With two well-located venues, shops, cafes, tours and talks and extensive collections which reveal the changing nature of London’s history from 450,000 BC to the present day.

Museum of London is the perfect place for any group to start their visit to the capital. Exclusive trade rates for tours are also available.

To become an ‘Account Customer’ and benefit from our travel trade rates, please contact Brian Andrews (Call Centre Manager).

Contact: 00 44 (0)20 7001 9844 and www.museumoflondon.org.uk/traveltrade

Image: Museum of London

New Aspect Event Offers

Nicholas Merchant is offering a short break for antique collectors in conjunction with Esseborne Manor in Hampshire.

The tour, running 11th-16th October 2009, will include tours to and talks about Sandham Memorial Chapel and the Art of Stanley Spencer; Mottisfont Abbey with its remarkable collection of 20th century paintings bequeathed by Derek Hill, and also its trompe l’oeil Drawing Room, painted by the renowed artist Rex Whistler; ‘an Insiders view of Southampton Art Gallery’ and an introduction to Blue and White transfer-painted pottery with Dick Henrywood and the history of gentleman’s gold boxes and their importance in ‘polite society’.

Cost from £595 per person, based on two people sharing, dbb, transport and lunch on all-day expeditions, all talks, theatre visit and VAT.

For all booking enquiries please contact: Ian Hamilton, Esseborne Manor. Tel: 00 44 (0)1264 736444 Email: info@esseborne-manor.co.uk. Web: www.esseborne-manor.co.uk

Image: Esseborne Manor, Hampshire

Free Events – Kirkby Stephen, Cumbria

Awarded the title of England Village of the Year 2009, Kirkby Stephen is a natural magnet for visitors who enjoy ‘the outdoors’. Dates to watch out for in 2009 and 2010 are 24th October 2009 and St Luke’s Fair when the town comes alive to celebrate their market charter with lots of festivities including a ‘Jester of the Year’ competition for the ‘village of the year. On Easter Saturday and Sunday 2010 be part of the Classic Commercial Vehicle Rally including free transport to all local sites in classic cars. All events are free!

For more information go to: www.kirkby-stephen.com Tel: 00 44 (0) 17683 71199

Image: Kirkby Stephen, Cumbria. Credit Britain on View.

Dine in Derby

The city of Derby is quickly establishing a strong reputation for the quality and choice of places to eat and drink.

A week dedicated to celebrate the very best that Derby has to offer, called ‘Dine in Derby’ , will take place between 12th and 18th October.

The event will kick off with the very first Derby Food and Drink Awards held at the spectacular Derby College Roundhouse.

A new national restaurant initiative is set to come to Derby during October 2009. ‘Dine’ is a new campaign to encourage the use of local restaurants and promote dining out in the evening. The initiative will see participating restaurants offer a special £5 lunch and £10 two course meal from 12th -18th 0ctober.

At the end of ‘Dine in Derby’ week, a Food and Drink Fair will take place in the Market Place, Catherdral Quarter on Saturday, 17th and Sunday, 18th October.

The city of Derby also offer a number of themed short breaks for visitors including Derby Ghosts, Real Ale and Rams Football Breaks from £75.00 based on two sharing. http://www.visitderby.co.uk/short-breaks

For more information about a visit to Derby go to: http://www.visitderby.co.uk/

Image: Dining out in Derby

Hospitality Line Christmas Parties

It’s never too early to think about Christmas and the opportunity to organise a group outing to a memorable Christmas party.

Hospitality Line has a number of events organised in cluding:

Studio 54 themed parties at Battersea Park (from 69.00 per person), Christmas Dinner River Thames Cruises (from 29.00 per person) , a far Eastern themed evening in Manchester called ‘ One Night in Bangkok’ (from £39.75 per person) and Abacus Bar Christmas Party at one of London’s leading city bars (from £21.99 per person).

For more information to book go to: www.hospitalityline.co.uk

Image: Hospitality Line Christmas Parties

Industry News......

Britain is losing out as the cost of visas rises

Recently reported in TravelGBI. Last month UKInbound met with the UK Border Agency Visitor Taskforce. Some interesting views on the cost of visas were expressed.

One view , which was hotly contested by UkInbound’s CEO, Mary Rance, was that UKBA believes that expensive visas do not deter overseas travellers from visiting a destination. UKInbound made it clear that the government must address the issue of visa costs, the impending changes to Air Passenger Duty, before the UK loses even more of its market share.

2010 and Beyond

Early Doors – The National Trust

Wolsey Lodges

Good Beer Guide

Dylan Thomas Pub, Carmarthenshire

Four Season Hotel, London

National Football Museum

Sea City Museum Southampton

English Heritage, Belsay Hall, Castle and Garden

Battle of Britain, 70th anniversary 2010

Book Britannia Now

BADA Antiques Fine Fair

The Great Northern Hotel, London

National Trust for Scotland

London Routemaster

Giant’s Causeway, Northern Ireland

PGL

WISE

Bluebell Railway Anniversary

Sofitel, Edinburgh

UK and Ireland Groups 2010

Industry Insights/News - 2010 and Beyond

Early Doors – The National Trust

Due to high demand, more National Trust properties than ever are now scheduled to open earlier in 2010, giving groups and visitors more opportunities to visit outside peak periods. Included in the growing list of early openers in 2010 are: Hardwick Hall – East Midlands (Opens 17 Feb); Bodiam Castle (Jan 2); Nymans House (10 March) – South East England; Nostell Priory and Parkland, Wallington (March 1) – Yorkshire and North East; Montacute House, Castle Drogo, Tintinhull Gardens – with a programme of ‘Early Bird Special’ openings; Trengwainton (14 Feb) – England’s South West.

For more information about The National Trust and its travel trade team: traveltrade@nationaltrust.org.uk and visit http://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/main/w-vh/w-visits/w-travel_trade-2.htm

NB: Tim Burton’s new film ‘Alice in Wonderland’ (due to be released in March 2010) has been filmed at National Trust property, Antony, Torpoint in Cornwall. http://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/main/w-antony

Image: Castle Drogo, Drewsteighnton, Devon. Credit Britain On View

Wolsey Lodges

For some 25 years Wolsey Lodges have been welcoming guests into their homes. Every one of the Wolsey Lodges, from the Scottish Highlands to the Cornish coast, is a unique private home. In their new guide each owner will have a dedicated page to give you a real flavour of what is on offer and what you can expect to experience during any one stay. Many of the Wolsey Lodges have excelled and achieved high quality assessments through the Quality in Tourism scheme. The new Wolsey Lodges 2010 collection is expected to be launched in November 2009.

For more information about Wolsey Lodges go to: www.wolseylodges.com

Image: Wysteria surrounding a doorway. Credit Britain on View – Tony Pleavin

Good Beer Guide

The 2010 (37th edition) of the Good Beer Guide (launched on 10th September 2009) will feature the best 4,500 urban and rural pubs giving details of the real ales, food offer, opening hours, beer gardens, accommodation, transport links and pub history.

The Campaign for Real Ale, who publish the Good Beer Guide, has also launched a Good Beer Guide Mobile service so wherever you are or wherever you are going you will now be able to access information on local Good Beer Guide pubs and beers sent direct to your mobile phone. For more information about this visit www.camra.org.uk/gbg

CAMRA now has more than 100,000 members after celebrating the landmark achievement at the recent Great British Beer Festival at Earl’s Court, London (August 2009).

Famous pub brewing family Shepherd Neame, based in Faversham, Kent, now have a number of inns and hotel/pubs including The Sun Inn, Faversham; The Crown Inn, Chiselhurst and The Millers Arms Canterbury. Rates start from single rooms at £65 per night http://www.shepherd-neame.co.uk/accommodation/index.php

Image: Good Beer Guide 2010

Dylan Thomas Pub could become hotel

A former pub in Carmarthenshire, West Wales, which was once the favourite drinking spot of poet Dylan Thomas, could soon become a hotel. Plans are currently being submitted to convert the grade II Brown’s Hotel in Laugharne into a hotel with 11 rooms. The project is likely to open in 2010.

The pub was previously owned by British tv actor Neil Morrissey. It is likely that the adjoining Clarence House will also be used as part of the conversion to provide additional accommodation.

www.visitwales.co.uk

Image: Dylan Thomas Boathouse, Laugharne

Four Seasons, London

This famous hotel, located in Park Lane, has just closed for a major refurbishment including a rooftop extension to make way for a new spa. The refurbishment will also involve the redecoration of eight floors of guestrooms. The Four Seasons London will re-open in 2010.

Other Four Seasons properties in Britain include: The Four Seasons Canary Wharf - http://www.fourseasons.com/canarywharf/ and Four Season Hotel Hampshire http://www.fourseasons.com/hampshire/

Rates to end of 2009 start from £150 (weekend) at the Canary Wharf property and from £195 at Four Seasons Hotel Hampshire.

Images: Four Seasons Hotel Hampshire and Four Seasons Hotel Canary Wharf.

National Football Museum

It has just been announced that the National Football Museum will close on 31st December 2009 and is possibly to be relocated to Manchester in 2010. The most favoured option in Manchester is the Urbis Centre. Discussions between the trustees of the National Football Museum, Preston City Council and Manchester City Council are on-going. http://www.urbis.org.uk/

The National Football Museum, Preston attractsover 100,000 visitors a year and is home to some of football’s most important exhibits including the ball from the 1966 World Cup Final. www.nationalfootballmuseum.com

At present, the National Football Museum is running a guided museum tours combined with a newbehind-the-scenes tour of Preston North End’s Deepdale Stadium called ‘The Deepdale Experience’. (Tours Every non-home matchday weekend Sunday) Adults £5, Concessions £2. Family tickets £12 & £10 (2 adults & 2 under 16 years/2 Adults , one under 16 years). Check fixture dates at: Check fixture dates at http://www.pnefc.premiumtv.co.uk/page/Fixtures/0,,10362,00.html. Visit Preston North End ticket office to book.

Image: Urbis Centre, Manchester ; Football – Credit Britain and View

New Sea City Museum

Southampton has unveiled the latest plans for a new Sea City Museum project which will form part of a wider development to create a new Cultural Quarter for the city.

The first phase of the Sea City Museum is scheduled to open to the public in 2012 to mark the 100th anniversary of the sinking of the Titanic.

Exhibition galleries will tell the story of the city from pre-history to present day, with a particular focus on Southampton’s maritime history.

Visitors will also be able to experience what it was like to be in the Merchant navy at the start of the 20th century , with displays telling the story of local sailors who worked aboard the Titanic.

In addition to the new museum, the Cultural Quarter will feature a refurbished Guildhall Square, a new arts complex and the Mayflower theatre.

For more information about Southampton go to: http://www.visit-southampton.co.uk/

Image: Ocean Village Marina, Southampton, Hampshire. Credit Britain on View

English Heritage – Belsay Hall, Castle and Gardens

Belsay Hall, Castle and Gardens in Northumberland have something for everyone with a fine medieval castle, a Greek Revival villa and outstanding, plant-rich gardens to explore. Having a tradition as a leading cultural centre in the north, Belsay will, between May-September 2010 be transformed by leading contemporary artists. This topsy-turvy transformation will turn the attraction, with its wonderful gardens and grounds, into an Alice-in-Wonderland world of dark enchantments by exploring the concept and distortion of scale. Adults will be made to feel like children and children made to feel like giants. This will be a highlight for any day out with a difference in 2010.

www.english-heritage.org.uk/belsay for visitor information and email traveltrade@english-heritage.org.uk for a free Travel Trade Map and Group Visitor Guide.

Image: Aerial view of Belsay Hall. Copyright Skyscan Balloon Photography

Battle of Britain 2010 – Imperial War Museum

2010 will mark an important anniversary in military history – the 70th anniversary of the Battle of Britain.

Discussions are currently taking place across IWM branches and with the Ministry of Defence about marking the Battle of Britain and other related events in 2010.

At present, the only confirmed event is The Battle of Britain Air Show at IWM Duxford on Saturday 4 and Sunday 5 September 2010. An announcement about ticketing for this event will be available from around Oct/Nov 2009. http://duxford.iwm.org.uk/

In the short term, interested members of the travel trade should sign up to a monthly e-newsletter update which will be Imperial War Museum’s main way to communicate with different audiences about their 2010 programme (including the Battle of Britain anniversary). Please go to the following link to sign up: http://www.patronmailuk.com/bnmailweb/PatronSetup?oid=109 

In interim discussions about 2010 promotions, all of the IWM branches will be looking not only at the Battle of Britain anniversary but also Churchill coming to power, the Blitz and Dunkirk.

http://london.iwm.org.uk/

Images: Battle of Britain 2010 Anniv. Spitfire - Credit Jason Phelan (2) Battle of Britain 2010 Anniv. Credit - Phil Makanna

Book Britannia Now for 2010

Five-star visitor attraction, The Royal Yacht Britannia are now taking bookings for August 2010. A popular attraction all year round, Britannia sees a dramatic increase in numbers during August due to the Edinburgh Military Tattoo and the world famous Edinburgh Fringe Festival drawing so many extra people to the city. Groups of 15 or more need to pre-book to take advantage of the special group rates and guarantee availability.

Britannia’s handset tour, available in 21 different languages, takes visitors round five decks at a leisurely pace. Highlights of the tour include the State Apartments, the Sun Lounge and the Engine Room.

www.royalyachtbritannia.co.uk

For groups and travel trade enquiries: Tel: +44 (0)131 555 8800
Email: groups@tryb.co.uk

Image: Royal Yacht Britannia, Edinburgh, Lothian. Credit Britain on View Chris Coe.

BADA Antiques Fine Art Fair

Complement a trip to London in Spring 2010 with a visit to the Britain Antique Dealers’ Association Antiques Fine Art Fair. Running from 17-23 March 2010, this leading national art and antiques fair brings together 100 of the UK’s experts who offer for sale a dazzling range of top quality pieces. Housed in a stunning pavilion in London’s newest open space, The Duke of York Square in Chelsea, the BADA Fair is a must-do event on any group itinerary. Tour packages, including first-class catering, can be arranged and luxury hotels in the area will offer special rates for BADA Fair visitors. Complimentary admission for tour leaders. Full details: 00 44 (0)20 7589 6108; Email: enq@bada-antiques-fair.co.uk ; Web: www.bada-antiques-fair.co.uk

Image: Antique Shopping . Credit Britain on View. Juliet White

The Great Northern Hotel

The Great Northern Hotel at Kings Cross in London is to be redeveloped as a 94 bedroom luxury boutique hotel, bar and restaurant. The 19th century building, just across from King’s Cross Railway station will be completed and open for business towards the end of 2011 in time for the London 2012 Games.

The Great Northern Hotel was the first of the great railway hotels built in Britain in the Victorian era.

For more information about hotels and visiting London go to: www.visitbritain.com

Image: London. Credit Britain on View - Alan Chandler

National Trust for Scotland 2010 Announcements

National Trust for Scotland has announced that its Discover tickets

http://www.nts.org.uk/traveltrade/downloads/DiscoverTicketMultiDaypasses2009_2010%20prices.pdf

and groups prices 

http://www.nts.org.uk/traveltrade/downloads/DiscoverTicketMultiDaypasses2009_2010%20prices.pdf

 will be fixed at 2009 rates until 31st Dec ember 2010. That means that their flexible, multi-day Discover Tickets and Group rates are even more value for money, claiming to save operators and clients up to 78%* (based on 14 Day adult Discover Ticket) on standard admission prices. (Available only when pre-booked through NTS One-Stop-Shop). http://www.nts.org.uk/TravelTrade/

The countdown has also begun towards the opening of the Robert Burns Birthplace Museum (previously covered in earlier editions of the VB Britain Tourism Product Update). NTS can now confirm prices for this great new visitor attraction from only £5.25 per person (group rate) or free with a valid Discover Ticket. www.nts.org.uk/burns

Image: Scotland

London Routemaster

London Mayor, Boris Johnson, admitted, earlier this month, that the public will now have to wait until the end of 2011 to see new Routemaster buses on London’s streets.

Following a competition in 2008, a streamlined space-capsule bus, designed by car-maker Aston Martin and architect Lord Foster, and a Fiftiesstyle vehicle by bus designer Capoco shared the top prize.

For more information about London: www.visitbritain.com

Image: New London Routemaster Bus

Giant’s Causeway – Northern Ireland

A new £18.5m visitor centre will be built to attract more visitors to this famous UNESCO World Heritage Site. The National Trust will give the green light to begin construction in early 2010 with a completion date towards the end of 2011. http://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/main/w-giantscauseway.

Around 600,000 visitors travel to the Gaint’s Causeway every year from around the world. The new visitor centre and improvements to the World Heritage Site will provide new trail paths, some up to 10km in length , as well as public access to other areas of the headland. The visitor centre will enhance the visitor experience and interpretation of the site. Its grass roof will also allow visitors to walk on top of the new centre and enjoy an outlook towards Runkerry and Portrush.

Information about all United Kingdom of Britain and Northern Ireland UNESCO World Heritage sites can be accessed through the following link: http://whc.unesco.org/en/statesparties/gb

Image: Giant’s Causeway New Visitor Centre Concept Drawing . Credit The National Trust.

PGL

PGL one of UK leading educational/activity operators has acquired the Liddington Hotel near Swindon. Construction is already underway to create a new outdoor activities centre for young people. PGL Liddington will open in 2010.

PGL Liddington will have 192 bedrooms and 45 seminar, conference and meetings rooms set in 150 acres of Wiltshire countryside. There are also plans for 11 full size football pitches! For group enquiries email: sales@pgl.co.uk

Web: www.pgl.co.uk

Image: PGL Liddington

Wales Institute for Sustainable Education

The Wales Institute for Sustainable Education (WISE) is due to open in March 2010 in Machynlleth, Powys. WISE will function as a state of the art environmental education centre with meeting and conference facilities available for the corporate market. http://wise.cat.org.uk/wise/

WISE will offer 24 en-suite study bedrooms, a 200 seat ‘rammed earth’ lecture theatre, three smaller meeting rooms with seating for between 20 and 50 delegates, restaurant, bar (and a laboratory). It aims to be the most energy sustainable building in Europe with minimal and renewable energy use.

WISE is a project devised by The Centre for Alternative Technology (CAT).

For enquiries: http://www.cat.org.uk/contact/cont_content.tmpl

Image: WISE 2010

Bluebell Railway Anniversary

Next year will see the 50th anniversary of the first public rail travel on the Bluebell Railway. The Bluebell Railway opened in Summer 1960, initially preserving a five-mile stretch of former Lewes to East Grinstead line between visitor attraction Sheffield Park and Horsted Keynes. Its latest project, to extend the railway line by a further 2 ½ miles at a cost of £3m, is already underway.

One of the major events already confirmed for next year’s 50th anniversary will see the visit of the Pacific 60163 “Tornado” for the first two weeks in August 2010. Bluebell Railways attracts over 185,000 visitors every year.

For more information about the Bluebell Railway and 2010 anniversary events: www.bluebell-railway.co.uk and email: bluebellpress@aol.com

Images: Bluebell Railways (2 images). Credit Jon Bowers.

Sofitel Hotel, Edinburgh

A new 205-bedroom five star Sofitel Edinburgh Hotel will take centre-stage in a multi-million pound redevelopment of Edinburgh’s Caltongate area. It is scheduled to open in 2010.

Caltongate is a major new mixed development to create offices, residential units and leisure facilities. The scheme will allow the Old Town of Edinburgh, close to Waverley railway station, to link with the eastern part of the New Town. The hotel will have an entrance on the Royal Mile as well as a new thoroughfare to link it directly with Waverley station and the Scottish Parliament. Most of the 200 plus rooms (including 20 suites and one apartment) will have view to the north of Edinburgh over Carlton Hill and to the south and the medieval Old Town.

Sofitel currently has 3 hotels in the UK at London Gatwick, London Heathrow and The Sofitel London St James at Waterloo Place, London SW1..

www.sofitel.com

Image: Edinburgh-Credit Britain on View

UK & Ireland Groups 2010

Hotelbeds Accommodation & Destination Services has a dedicated groups department based in London and Edinburgh which specialises in creating tailor-made tours to suit client’s budgets and interests. From a classic tour of the UK and Scotland to a themed tour, their team will apply their expertise to make it a success.

Hotelbeds offers a selection of scheduled departure tours in English, German, French, Portuguese and Spanish.

Current tours of UK and Ireland (Groups) include:

Highlands and Islands of Scotland (German) (12 days/11 nights) (with 2 day Cruise). 7 departures from 07 June – 04 October 2010 Price per person from UK£ 1166.00 (7 Departures)

Scottish Highlights (8 days/7 nights) from 22 May – 4 September 2010. Price per person from UK£551 (14 Departures)

Magical Scotland (8 days/7nights) from 20 June- 29 August 2010. Price per person from UK£545. (6 Departures)

Best of Scotland (8 days/7nights) from 31 May – 4 October 2010. Price per person £546 (8 Departures)

Beautiful Devon and Cornwall (8 days/7nights) 17 April- 5 June 2010. Price per person UK£599. (3 Departures)

Experience Scotland (French) (8 days/7nights)20 June- 5 September 2010. Price per person UK£497. (8 Departures).

Glorious Scotland (Spanish) (8days/7nights)25 July-29 August 2010. Price per person UK£504. (4 Departures)

Best of Britain(Portuguese) (11Days/10nights). Price per person UK£869. (3 Departures)

Great Britain Explorer (Scheduled departures/Sundays). 23 May-22 August 2010. Price per person UK£769. (4 Departures)

Website: http://r2.hotelbeds.com/corporate/indexUK.jsp?loadIdi=no and contact for travel trade: http://r2.hotelbeds.com/corporate/contact.jsp

Image: Mill Bay, Salcombe, Devon, England. Credit – Britain on View

Industry News/Insights – 2010 and Beyond...

Bob Cotton, British Hospitality Association, will step down from his current role in 2010. http://www.caterersearch.com/Articles/2009/09/10/329787/hospitality-industry-pays-tribute-to-bob-cotton.htm

Travelodge is in talks with London Mayor Boris Johnson about building a special hotel for disabled visitors for the London 2012 Games. http://www.express.co.uk/posts/view/125440/Travelodge-in-talks-over-2012-Olympics-

According to travel and hospitality industry website e-tid.com, on 1st September, The Savoy Hotel, London could now face a further 6 months delay to its £100m refurbishment and re-opening. It is still scheduled to open in 2010. www.e-tid.com

Museums at Night , a UK version of Nuit des Musees – a European-wide celebration staged every May, designed to tempt visitors to museums and galleries across Britain, has reported some positive results to the 2009 campaign. Museums at Night reported that over 157 events took place in 2009 drawing in 34,000 visitors. In 2009 at Night was funded by the Museum, Libraries and Archives Council (MLA) , National Museum Director’s Conference (NMDC) and managed by Culture 24. for Museums at Night 2010 include the suggested appointment of a national co-ordinator and the launch of the campaign this September to enable advance planning, better tourism tie-ins and the encouragement of clusters of activity in cities or regions that can create a spread of events over the weekend. www.culture24.org.uk/places+to+go/museums+at+night+2009