The British Tourism & Travel Show is back this week (20-21 March) and will be bursting with attractions, destinations and hotels ready to tempt group travel organisers and coach tour operators with a group welcome.

There’s much to discover and do among the expanse of 200+ exhibitors. Don’t miss these highlights:

Sample culinary delights on the Food and Drink Trail

From artisan ales to award-winning wines and delectable cheeses, the Trail will showcase a diverse range of offerings to satisfy palates. Visitors will have the opportunity to sample culinary creations that inspire flavourful experiences for group tours, from exhibitors including:

Daniel Thwaites Hotels (stand D4):

Dive into a tropical paradise with Paradise No3, a flavourful ale brewed using citra, ernest, and styrian cardinal ops.

Frome Valley Vineyards (stand A41):

Indulge in the finest still and sparkling wines grown on the family-run vineyard, known for its award-winning creations.

Lancashire’s Finest (stand B17):

Delight in the finest beers and cheeses Lancashire has to offer, showcasing the region’s culinary excellence.

Visit Derby (stand C16):

Explore the flavours of Derby with award-winning Ay Up Real Ale from the Dancing Duck Brewery, and Wire Works Whisky Caduro.

Plymouth, Britain’s Ocean City (stand B41):

Raise a glass of Plymouth Gin, featuring a unique blend of botanicals that captures the essence of Britain’s Ocean City.

The Green Dragon Hotel (stand A41):

Indulge in dragon-shaped shortbread biscuits freshly prepared by the hotel’s talented chefs.

Visit Wales (stand E22):

Sample delicious hand-made Welsh cakes, crafted in a small bakery in Cardiff.

More exhibitor highlights

British Ironwork Centre (stand C9):

Take the greatest selfie opportunity at the show and get snapped with life-size superhero sculptures. From Storm Troopers to Batman, these eye-catching pieces demonstrate the remarkable possibilities that can be achieved with scrap metals. These impressive displays of metal craftsmanship are just a few examples of over 100 on display across 70 acres of sculpture parks and walking trails in the Ironworks.

Visit Ripon (stand A9):

Witness the Ripon Hornblower in full uniform as she regales visitors with tales of its ancient tradition and shares insights into the role’s significance, and the ritual horn blowing that has endured for generations. Find out more about where to go and what to do in the city steeped in history from the team.

Castle Howard (stand D24):

Learn about its first ever large-scale sculpture exhibition that offers a unique opportunity to immerse in contemporary art amidst the stunning backdrop of Castle Howard’s historic setting. Over 20 pieces of work created by internationally celebrated artist, Tony Cragg, will be on display in the Grounds and House from May to September this year.

Herefordshire (stand A41):

The stand will showcase a lively mix of cultural and immersive destinations from Hereford Cathedral, home to the Mappa Mundi, to the Hop Pocket Shopping Village. There will also be a booming welcome from Bromyard’s own Town Crier who will be performing in full costume.

Cruise Loch Linnhe (stand E14):

Find out about the beautiful highlands, and tailor-made group experiences and tour packages to complement travel plans.

Devon’s Top Attractions (stand D53):

Discover a host of interesting and varied days out. Visit their stand to find out what’s new, pick up some Devon goodies, and enter a competition to win a Devon holiday.

Mamma Mia! The Party (stand E9):

Learn about the theatrical dining phenomenon created by ABBA’s Björn Ulvaeus, located at The O2 in London. With its combination of music, food, and entertainment, Mamma Mia! The Party offers a unique and unforgettable evening for audiences of all ages.

Priscilla The Party! (stand D3):

Hear about the immersive reimagining of the iconic award-winning musical set in the heart of Soho. With its innovative approach to storytelling and captivating performances, Priscilla The Party! promises an unforgettable theatrical experience that will leave audiences mesmerized.

The Shrine of St Augustine and National Pugin Centre (stand D52):

Find out how your groups can explore the Augustine Camino pilgrimage route, featured on Radio 4 and in national press. Discover bespoke group tours on offer by coach or foot.

Thursford (stand C54):

Find out about exclusive guided backstage tours of the Thursford Christmas Spectacular, which take groups behind the scenes of the famous show. The village will also be hosting one of the biggest Steam Gala Days on 7 July, promising an unforgettable experience for steam enthusiasts and families alike. Group discounts are available.

Eastwood Whelpton Sailing Holidays (stand C37):

See how your groups can experience the beauty of the Norfolk Broads with group sailing holidays and on-water glamping experiences.

Yarn Market Hotel/Dunster in Exmoor (stand A20):

Located in the centre of medieval village, Dunster in Exmoor National Park, the hotel caters for groups of all sizes. Learn about their group offerings, including special themed breaks and assistance with planning group itineraries.

The Department for Tourism of Samarkand Region (stand E13):

Learn about the cultural heritage of Samarkand, Uzbekistan, a UNESCO World Heritage site on the Great Silk Road.

VISITWallonia (stand C14):

Discover all about themed breaks in Wallonia, including battlefields, motorsports, art, mini cruises, spa, and alternative city breaks.

Explore the UK with Britain’s Best Guides

Hear from some of the most respected Blue Badge Guides across the two days. A variety of talks will inspire tours and give a taste of what guides can offer groups.  On day one, be guided through Town & Country highlights in Coventry and the Heart of England with Verity Tiff, and discover the hidden gems of Wales with Ildi Pelikan. On day two, be guided through highlights in Coventry and the Heart of England with Roger Bailey, and in the afternoon listen to stories of the people, legends, culture and heritage that make up Cumbria and the Lake District with Teresa Cruse and Gordon Lightburn.

New additions to the keynote lineup

More speakers have joined the keynote lineup. A significant newcomer is Paul Howarth, Head of Engagement for the Home Office’s Future Border and Immigration Systems Programme. He will provide insights into the UK’s introduction of Electronic Travel Authorisation, and its implications for tourists and business visitors.

VisitEngland will also take the stage with Vicky Parr, Business Support Project Manager, updating attendees on the latest research into the value of tourism in England, stemming from its English Tourism Week campaign.

Attendees will also be introduced to representatives from newly created Local Visitor Economy Partnerships (LVEP), including Jon Chamberlain, Sally Graff, and Stella Birks from Visit West (Bath & Bristol), Cotswold Tourism, and Visit Derby, respectively. They will offer insights into opportunities for groups in Bristol, Bath, The Cotswolds, Derby, and Plymouth.

The full programme of keynotes and Blue Badge Guide talks is available at tourismshow.co.uk/2024-keynote-programme/

British Tourism & Travel Show – free trade registration 

The British Tourism & Travel Show is taking place at the NEC Birmingham on 20-21 March 2024.  For more information and to register for a free ticket, visit www.tourismshow.co.uk.