2013 is all about exploring Britain
According to Visit England, the UK’s national tourist board, 2013 will see our tourism industry continue to build on the wave of patriotism and fascination for all things English sparked by the Diamond Jubilee and London Olympics last year. Celebrating our heritage and sharing it with our overseas visitors has long been at the heart of Britain’s tourist offering, but this year there will be a greater focus on high quality, luxury travel and accommodation. Which is, of course, great news for us!
One of the key trends for 2013 is the ‘babymoon’, the last chance for expectant couples to get away together and relax before the baby comes. Perhaps inspired by the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge’s happy news, parents-to-be are expected to account for a large percentage of luxury travellers this year, booking pampering spa breaks and sumptuous accommodation. At the Country Castle Company, their properties are elegant and indulgent, and many are set within peaceful countryside locations – perfect for getting away from it all before family life begins!
Our amazing literary heritage is another aspect of Britain’s unique culture, and this year will see the rise in popularity of ‘literatours’. 2013 marks the 200th anniversary of Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice, so we expect to see related literary celebrations in Derbyshire, in which some of the novel is set, Bath, where Austen lived for many years, and Hampshire, where she was born. Perennial favourites such as Shakespeare’s Stratford will also continue to figure prominently as tourist destinations this year. Why not use a beautiful house as a base from which to explore these historic areas, such as this stunning castle, located less than 30 minutes from Bath.
There is so much to celebrate in 2013, from Benjamin Britten’s centenary to the 100th anniversary of the Chelsea Flower show. With so much going on, staying in the UK is the perfect choice – wherever you go, Britain will always have something new and fascinating to experience. And if you have a special occasion of your own this year, one of The Country Castle Company stunning houses, castles or cottages is sure to provide the perfect backdrop.
For more information, visit thecountrycastlecompany.com.
