New push to promote tourism in South Warwickshire
“Shakespeare Country” the tourism body responsible for promoting South Warwickshire, one of the leading tourist destinations in England, has been re-launched with a new improved and simplified scheme for members.
The prestigious Shakespeare Country brand, website and use of the Guestlink accommodation booking system were bought by an experienced consortium in May led by Tony Merrygold, owner of The Open Road Classic Car Hire and Chairman of the South Warwickshire Association of Tourist Attractions (SWATA), Sally Carrick and technology company, New Vision Group.
News that Shakespeare Country is back in business has been met with much support and approval. Previous members of the organisation including key attractions such as the Royal Shakespeare Company, Shakespeare Birthplace Trust, Warwick Castle, Compton Verney and Kenilworth Castle have all pledged their commitment to re-join the organisation. The Directors of the consortium are well known in the travel and tourism industry and their involvement has been greeted very positively.
Lucy Dhiman, Sales & Marketing Manager at Kenilworth Castle said “It is great to see that Shakespeare Country have re-launched and we look forward to the invaluable support they will continue to provide for us, as one of the main visitor attractions in Warwickshire”. John Filgate of Bancroft Cruisers also stated “We’re thrilled to see Shakespeare Country back in business and very much look forward to working together”.
Shakespeare Country will continue to provide first class marketing services for the area, both nationally and internationally through promotional literature, PR & Press, events and via the award-winning website, one of the most popular destination websites in the UK. In order to provide the best value for money to members, the company will have a more streamlined management system. New Vision is responsible for running the Destination Management System and Guestlink system which enables visitors to search and book accommodation online.
Plans to produce the 2011 versions of the invaluable and popular Shakespeare Country Holiday Guide and a Pocket version of the Attraction Guide are already well underway. The full colour, A5 magazine style publication will feature accommodation, attractions, activities and events whilst the pocket guide will feature attractions, activities and events. Both guides will be distributed in January through the national Tourist Information Centre network. There are plans to further develop the website in the future by adding an online shop which will sell maps, guidebooks and gifts as well as providing the opportunity to purchase tickets online.
Tony Merrygold stated “We are delighted to have re-launched Shakespeare Country and look forward to delivering a first class service on behalf of our members. Together we will ensure that Shakespeare Country continues to be one of the most famous tourist destinations in the country”.
For accommodation, brochures, special offers and more information visit the official website: shakespeare-country.co.uk