Drive to attract more conferences to beautiful Cumbria

With latest research showing that business tourism contributes £4bn to the UK economy, Cumbria Tourism is launching a fresh bid to attract more conferences to the region with its free conference finding service.

According to VisitEngland, business tourism creates more than 16 million trips each year.

With major developments like the new £1m Conference and Learning Centre at Whitehaven’s Beacon Museum and conferencing facilities included in the £16m investment at Windermere’s Low Wood Bay Resort Hotel, Cumbria Tourism is hoping now is the time to tap into this important market.

Cumbria’s official destination management organisation is urging companies to make the most of its new-look conference desk, which can help find the best venue options for conferences, events and training. Cumbria Tourism can help match local venues for everything from meetings and exhibitions to product presentations and parties – all free of charge.

Rachel Tyson, head of marketing and sales at Cumbria Tourism said: “This year will see millions of pounds’ worth of developments enhance conference facilities in Cumbria.

“Although business tourism is traditionally associated with cities such as Manchester and London, we have some truly unique venues and executive retreats in spectacular scenery, you simply can’t find in other parts of the country. I

“It’s an emerging area for us, but we want to get the message out there that we have a free conference finding service to help put companies in touch with venues which offer a completely different corporate experience.”

Colin Fox, group marketing manager at English Lakes Hotels, Resorts & Venues said: “Business tourism is hugely important to the Lake District and is certainly a major part of the plans for Low Wood Bay Resort & Spa and the extended and increased quality of the facilities at the venue.

“The development is expected to encourage more incentive and business tourism and if the Lake District is awarded World Heritage Status this July then a world class resort would definitely be a boost to the area.”

Alan Irwin, business development manager at The Beacon Museum, Whitehaven said:
“Cumbria has a thriving business community that attracts investment from across the globe and having a creative space at the museum provides new opportunities for businesses.

“The Beacon Museum have been keen to innovate in this way, as it allows us to change the perception of what a museum does: whether that be a community hub, learning centre or simply a greater catalyst for tourism.”