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Visit Devon
Visit Devon is the destination management organisation responsible for promoting Devon to the world. The organisation acts as a voice for tourism in Devon and its aim is simple - to increase the number of visitors to Devon by promoting the county as a year-round destination for business or leisure.
www.visitdevon.co.ukPress Releases
VisitEngland announces winner of Tourism Superstar is from Devon!
Visit Devon is home to the county’s very own Tourism Superstar – and it’s official! Claire Preece, Hospitality Manager at Kents Cavern, the award-winning prehistoric cave attraction in Torquay, Devon, came top in a public vote run by the national tourist board in partnership with the Daily Mirror. The vote was designed to recognise those unsung heroes who go above and beyond the call of duty to ensure visitors to England have an unforgettable experience.
All ten shortlisted candidates were featured in a short film on the Daily Mirror website, with the public voting online for the one they thought deserved to be crowned Tourism Superstar 2013. ...
CAST YOUR VOTES FOR DEVON’S ONLY FINALIST IN ENGLAND’S TOURISM SUPERSTAR 2013
13 February 2013. Calling all lovers of Devon! Devon businesses, visitors to Devon and all Devon residents have the chance to show their support for the county and in particular for the county’s very own Tourism Superstar. Voting has now opened to decide the winner of Tourism Superstar 2013, run by national tourist board VisitEngland. Following the announcement of the ten shortlisted candidates in January, VisitEngland is launching a public vote. Visit: http://www.visitengland.com/ee/Tourism-Superstar/ to watch a short film featuring Claire Preece, from Kents Cavern www.kents-cavern.co.uk together with the other potential superstars.
The award recognises the dedication and passion of those working in the tourism industry, and is awarded to an individual who goes above and beyond the call of duty to ensure visitors to England have a priceless experience. This year the award focuses on employees at English visitor attractions. Nominations were received from attractions throughout the country and there is a shortlist of ten. Claire Preece is the only finalist from Devon. The winner will be invited to attend VisitEngland’s Awards for Excellence held in May....
Devon Tourism businesses have 15 Silver reasons to celebrate at SW Tourism Awards (and two Gold!)
8 February 2013 was a night to remember for Devon tourism businesses celebrating at the South West Tourism Excellence Awards 2012-2013 as the occasion saw Devon pick up two Gold Awards and no less than 15 Silver Awards.
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Escape to Devon this Christmas for a magical festive break of fun
Devon has Christmas all wrapped up this year with a host of magical seasonal events which promise to delight all members of the family and guarantee some Christmas cheer.
http://www.visitdevon.co.uk ....
Finalists for the Devon Tourism Awards 2012 are announced
Devon’s leading tourism businesses have been chosen for the finals of the Devon Tourism Awards which will be presented at a prestigious ceremony next month.
www.devontourismawards.org.uk and find it on Twitter #devontourismawards....
Frightful fun for all the Family in Devon this October Half-Term
Frightful fun and ghostly goings on promise to make October Half Term in Devon a Halloween hit with families looking for an action packed late seasonal break. www.visitdevon.co.uk
Spooky tours, Halloween camps, Big Wheels and deer safaris are all the ingredients for a fun filled family holiday in one of the UK’s most beautiful destinations. Devon is home to a stunning coastline and rolling countryside along with historic cities, award winning attractions and some of Britain’s best food and drink which can be enjoyed at some exciting seasonal food festivals and events this half term....
Visit Devon for the pick of the autumn’s crop of festivals and events
Visit Devon this autumn for a sensational seasonal break where you can enjoy a bountiful array of exciting festivals and events that will please the senses and inspire both body and soul. www.visitdevon.co.uk
Devon in the autumn is busting with seasonal delights to indulge the five senses; from North to South, the county showcases some of the UK’s best food festivals. It is also home to some of the UK’s most stunning scenery which can be explored as part of the Dartmoor Mountain Challenge or why not get on the trail of some inspiring mysteries and unlock the secrets of the internationally acclaimed Agatha Christie Festival....
As temperatures begin to soar Visit Devon for an unforgettable summer of fun
With temperatures set to soar as summer truly begins, Devon’s golden beaches, glorious countryside and diverse range of events and festivals make Devon the ultimate UK destination for Summer 2012.
Devon is home to the UK’s best surfing beaches, as well as the Jurassic Coast and also where you can escape the crowds and enjoy the freedom of the unspoilt wildernesses of Exmoor and Dartmoor. Go wild camping or “ glamping “ in a Yurt under a bright canopy of stars, experience trekking with lamas, surfing with your dog, walk the Granite Way or why not take in the inspiring views from the outstanding South West Coast Path. And then relax in Devon’s new pop up hotel at River Cottage opening in August....
Devon Tourism Partnership says Government could do more to support local tourism
The Devon Tourism Partnership says the Devon tourism industry is reporting an average 20% drop in visitor numbers during 2012 and is calling on the Government and local authorities to do more to back the Devon tourism industry during these difficult economic times. www.visitdevon.co.uk
A recent report by the South West Research Company claims that visitor numbers in the region are down by 53% but the Devon Tourism Partnership says that the actual figure is closer to 20%. The Devon Tourism Partnership figure is based on feedback from hundreds of businesses that are members of Devon Area Tourism Partnerships....
Undercover Devon – a haven for visitors – whatever the weather!
Even in the micro-climate of the West Country we experience wet and rainy days but there is no need to despair as Visit Devon has a very handy entertainment guide for families when the raindrops do start to fall. www.visitdevon.co.uk
The dedicated page on the Visit Devon website is a great place to start:...
Devon businesses urged to enter the Devon Tourism Awards 2012
Visit Devon is urging Devon tourism businesses to enter the Devon Tourism Awards to highlight Devon’s status as a first class tourism destination. There are less than 2 weeks to do so as the extended deadline for this prestigious competition is 28 June. www.devontourismawards.org.uk
The Devon awards are a gateway to the South West Tourism Excellence Awards with winners given the opportunity to go through to the regional awards and then if successful to the VisitEngland Awards. They provide a fantastic opportunity for the county’s tourism businesses to showcase what Devon has to offer and to be recognised for their contribution to the tourism industry. All entrants receive business feedback and – if a visit follows - a free mystery shopper report. ...
Summer 2012 Celebrations in Devon
Escape the Olympic crowds in the capital this summer and visit Devon where you can find Olympic inspired events and activities in one of the most beautiful and idyllic areas of the UK. www.visitdevon.co.uk
Devon may be the home of Olympic diving hopeful Tom Daley but it is also a winner when it comes to enjoying the very best coastal resorts, beaches and countryside, first class hospitality and inspiring events and festivals....
New Devon Tourism Partnership Unites at Devon County Show
The new Devon Tourism Partnership showcased the first of its exciting marketing plans to promote Devon for 365 days of the year at the Devon County Show.
The new partnership which is responsible for protecting and promoting the Visit Devon brand has united to produce the first combined Visit Devon Events Calendar which will be distributed across the county this summer. ...
Devon brings home two Golds and a Bronze at VisitEngland Awards for Excellence 2012
Visit Devon congratulates the winners of this year’s VisitEngland Awards for Excellence with businesses in Devon bringing home two Gold awards and one Bronze. Announced yesterday evening (22 May) at a ceremony held in Leicester, the three Devon businesses to receive the most prestigious awards in the English tourism industry were Wheatland Farm and Compton Pool Farm, both winning Gold in the categories of Sustainable Tourism and Self Catering Holiday of the Year respectively and Bovey Castle Country House Hotel which won Bronze in the Best Large Hotel Category.
Wheatland Farm, based in Winkleigh, East Devon, has a fantastic track record in sustainable tourism and the Wheatland eco lodges and cottage have won several previous awards with this year’s VisitEngland Sustainable Tourism Gold recognised as a fantastic testament to owners Ian Ripper and Maggie Watson’s dedication to conservation and the environment. www.wheatlandfarm.co.uk ...
Join the giant Easter Bunny or Willy Wonka for an “ Eggstraordinary” Easter in Devon
Visit Devon this Easter for a chocoholics delight! With more than 40,000 chocolate eggs to hunt, Devon is home to scores of “eggciting” Easter events which will be taking place at the county’s many theme parks, stately homes and gardens and tourist attractions. www.visitdevon.co.uk
From Willy Wonka to the giant Easter bunny there are plenty of fun filled ways to keep the whole family entertained this Easter in one of the most beautiful and stunning locations in the UK....
Dartmoor set to become “must see” destination in 2012 for fans of new Spielberg film War Horse
The iconic beauty of Dartmoor in Devon will be a must see destination in 2012 for fans of the Michael Morpurgo classic “War Horse“ which is the subject of the much anticipated new Steven Spielberg movie released in the UK on 13 January.
www.visitdevon.co.uk www.dartmoor.co.uk...
Celebrate the Olympics early at Active Dartmoor Week
One of the most beautiful and inspiring locations in the UK, the ancient and iconic moor land of Dartmoor in Devon is to be the setting for a new Olympic style challenge in 2012 with Active Dartmoor Week. www.dartmoor.co.uk
For seven days, from 31 March, the awe-inspiring terrain of Dartmoor will be host to a series of challenge events, kicking off the 2012 Olympic celebrations early with a range of activities and sports which showcase the wide variety of things to do and see in this most spectacular landscape....
Special Award highlights inspirational South Devon figure at Devon Tourism Awards
Last night’s Devon Tourism Awards singled out Pennywell Farm’s Chris Murray for an Outstanding Contribution Award as recognition of his passion for Devon’s tourism industry.
Rosie Bates, General Manger of Visit Devon said:...
Winners announced at Devon Tourism Awards 2011
The cream of Devon’s tourism industry was recognised last night at the 2011 Devon Tourism Awards, attended by over 200 guests.
Exeter’s Sandy Park played host to the glitzy awards presentation presided over by favourite Devon celebrity Judi Spiers and where no fewer than 13 Gold Awards and 15 Gold Product Awards were presented to businesses across 10 categories....
Gidleigh Park celebrates a triple award win at the Devon Tourism Awards 2011
Gidleigh Park, one of the UK’s most renowned country house hotel and restaurants, has scooped three awards including the most coveted Winner of Winner’s accolade at the prestigious 2011 Devon Tourism Awards at a special ceremony last night. www.visitdevon.co.uk
Gidleigh Park, which is located near Dartmoor in Devon, is run by the Michelin starred and leading UK chef, Michael Caines. It won Gold for the Taste of Devon award as well as a joint Gold award for the Hotel of the Year (together with Bovey Castle) and to complete the hat trick was crowned Winner of Winners....
Visit Devon seeking a significant role in new VisitEngland campaign
Visit Devon has said that it welcomes the new VisitEngland initiative which has been allocated almost £20 million through the Regional Growth Fund. The initiative aims to get economies outside of London stimulated by launching a Government backed advertising campaign encouraging Britons to holiday at home.
Although Devon is not currently among the 14 primary tourism partners selected, Visit Devon says that it recognises there are still many opportunities to become engaged with the campaign which is looking to capitalise on the feel-good factor surrounding the London Olympics and the Queen's Diamond Jubilee next year....
Finalists announced for Devon Tourism Awards 2011
The Devon Tourism Awards received a record number of entries this year demonstrating that tourism in Devon is very much alive and keen to showcase its talents. After rigorous judging, 27 businesses have been selected as representing the cream of Devon tourism and final places will be revealed at the Devon Tourism Awards taking place at Exeter’s Sandy Park on 23 November.
The Devon Tourism Awards were first launched in 2010 and were deemed to be a huge success. This year sees the addition of two further categories that recognise the county’s food and drink sector, with judging carried out through a combination of scoring, mystery visits and web searches....
Visit Devon and indulge in the true spirit of Christmas..past and present!
Visit Devon this Christmas and indulge in the true spirit of the festive season with a feast of festivals, Christmas markets, glittering lights, angelic carol singing and some mouth watering ideas for presents that will make Scrooge smile! www.visitdevon.co.uk
Twinkling Christmas lights are what make this time of year truly special and Clovelly in North Devon and Dartmouth in South Devon have their own unique way of banishing the gloom of winter with a spectacular show of lights....
Autumn in Devon
This autumn in Devon is a time for indulging in food festivals, tapping into your artistic side, and exploring the great outdoors. www.visitdevon.co.uk
Devon is a great place for food tourism with its fantastic fresh local produce, and Devon’s autumn food events are a real treat for the taste buds, whether it be a Michelin starred three course meal or a jelly fight....
Heart of Devon launches new tourism website
The Heart of Devon Tourism Partnership launched its new website on Thursday 23 June 2011 – www.heartofdevon.com The new website has a new look with bold colours and imagery, reflecting the region’s fantastic offering and the Heart of Devon brand. Unique hits to the website have risen by 20% in the last 12 months to 130,000, due to a focused campaign promoting towns and villages within the Heart of Devon. This will continue, but with an emphasis on cultural holidays in the Heart of Devon.
Derek Philips, chairman of the Heart of Devon Tourism Partnership says “We are very excited about the launch of the new website. This is the first time the website has had a new design in five years and we felt that with improvements in technology, the time was right to commission a new design. A big improvement is that the new website will have the facility to take online bookings for accommodation”. ...
Devon Tourism Awards open for entries
Devon’s tourism businesses are reminded that they have until the end of June to enter the 2011 Devon Tourism Awards. Launched last year, the Awards are a fantastic opportunity for tourism businesses to showcase the best of what Devon has to offer giving tourism businesses the chance to stand out from the crowd and be recognised for their contribution to the industry. In 2011 Visit Devon has expanded the categories available so that a significant sector can achieve recognition for its excellent contribution to tourism.
New for this year’s awards, the Food & Drink Devon ‘Taste of Devon’ and ‘Producer of the Year’ categories have been launched to celebrate the importance of the local food and drink sector to the county’s tourism offering. ...
Why the Heart of Devon is the Summer cultural hotspot for 2011!
A feast of summer culture is being served up by the Heart of Devon Tourism Partnership for Summer 2011 which is sure to bring more visitors flocking to the area. Check out the newly revamped website: www.heartofdevon.com. Exeter is already enjoying a cultural renaissance thanks to the £600,000 overhaul of the City's glorious Cathedral Green. Exeter Cathedral is one of Europe's medieval masterpieces and the Green is very much at the heart of the city's cultural and commercial life. Visitors will once again be able to enjoy a unique vista of this vibrant city centre from the Cathedral's rooftop through specially organised tours which run April to September and take place every Tuesday and Thursday at 2pm and Saturday at 11.30am.
Exeter's Georgian business quarter will be the venue for the opening of the luxury boutique hotel in the Grade II listed Southernhay House in June, acquired by Burgh Island owners Tony Orchard and Deborah Clark. Southernhay House is a classic Georgian Townhouse which has been faithfully restored and offers a unique private club experience with its Raj inspired dining room and individually designed luxurious bedrooms. ...
Visit Devon congratulates 3 Silver winners of Enjoy England Awards for Excellence
Visit Devon congratulates the Devon Silver Winners of this year’s 2011 Enjoy England Awards for Excellence comprising Bovey Castle, Sarah Lee at The Big Sheep and Millbrook Cottages, all of whom have demonstrated dedication to developing the excellent standards of English tourism in their particular categories.
The competition celebrates the best of what the UK tourism industry has to offer and the three Silver Winners heard the news at the prestigious ceremony in Birmingham held on Friday evening (15 April). Bovey Castle Country House Hotel won Silver in the Best Large Hotel category making this the third year running that a Devon hotel has been successful in this category. Situated on the edge of Dartmoor National Park, Bovey boasts a championship golf course, a luxurious holistic spa and 79 rooms, including 14 lodges. Visit: www.boveycastle.com. ...
North Devon appeals to local businesses for £50,000 in sponsorship for the Atlantic Watersports Games
North Devon+ is appealing to local businesses to pledge up to £50,000 in sponsorship to support its bid to host the Atlantic Watersports Games which could mean a £14 million boost to the North Devon economy this summer.
North Devon+, the tourism and economic development partnership, is leading an initiative to secure the 2011 Atlantic Watersports Games for the area after Wales, which was due to stage the event, was forced to pull out due to budget cuts. The Atlantic Watersports International Committee has approved North Devon as a potential host for the Games but £50,000 in sponsorship is needed from local businesses within the next two weeks to allow the Games to go ahead....
“Get Wild in Devon” scheme benefits visitors and tourism businesses
Devon’s visitors and tourism businesses are benefiting from a unique scheme to protect and promote the county’s wildlife. The “Get Wild About Devon” initiative has provided local tourism businesses with a free wildlife audit, which details information about local species and habitats for visitors to enjoy. Many local tourism businesses are reporting that the scheme has enhanced their business and has proved to be a valuable tool in encouraging both wildlife and visitors to the area. Visit: www.visitdevon.co.uk/site/wildlife
25 businesses have taken part in “Get Wild About Devon”, including Wheatland Farm in North Devon which offers award winning self catering accommodation and which actively promotes wildlife to its visitors. Popehouse Moor makes up a third of the farm, designated as a Site of Special Scientific Interest, the wildlife audit revealed 200 species of flowering plants such as wild orchids at the site. Maggie Watson who owns Wheatland Farm with husband Ian Ripper, says that the ‘Get Wild’ scheme has given a welcome boost to their business. “The scheme has opened our eyes not just to local wildlife but how we manage our business which has helped us cut costs. We no longer mow our grass as much, which saves us time and money as well as providing a relaxed environment for visitors and the perfect habitat for voles which in turn have attracted Barn Owls to hunt here. It is this sort of information which can be very valuable to businesses, helpful to visitors and it is very easy to organise.” Visit: www.wheatlandfarm.co.uk...
Devon and Cornwall unite to win over the German Tourism Market
A new initiative aimed at attracting visitors from Germany as well as the German speaking populations of Austria and Switzerland has seen two friendly UK rivals join forces. Visit Devon, the voice of tourism in Devon and Visit Cornwall, the Cornwall Development Company tourism service, are pooling resources to promote the region to German visitors.
The two organisations are drawing on the similarities of their respective counties and proximity to one another to maximise the awareness that already exists for the region as a holiday destination among Germans. Supporting partners of Visit Devon involved in the initiative include: Heart of Devon tourism partnership, Exeter and Heart of Devon Hotels and Restaurants Association and Exeter International Airport....
Visit Devon congratulates 3 Devon finalists in prestigious UK tourism awards
Visit Devon is congratulating three of Devon’s leading tourism businesses which will be taking on the cream of the UK’s tourism industry in the national finals of the Enjoy England Awards for Excellence 2011. www.visitdevon.co.uk
Bovey Castle Hotel, Millbrook Cottages and the Big Sheep tourist attraction in North Devon have been short listed for the prestigious awards ceremony in Birmingham in April. The competition celebrates the best of what the UK tourism industry has to offer and Devon’s tourism businesses will be among 54 short listed winners....
Why Devon means business at international conference showcase in 2011
Visit Devon and Conference Torquay will be attending the UK’s leading event for event organisers, International Confex 2011, taking place at Earls Court, London from 1 – 3 March, and for the first time are bringing together a team of stand partners to showcase what the county has to offer the conference and event organising sector.
Conference Torquay, the Riviera international Conference Centre, Dartington Hall, Sandy Park, Rill Estate, Brend Hotels, Croyde Bay Conference Centre, Event Exeter, Exeter International Airport, First Great Western Trains, Woodbury Park Hotel and Golf Club, and Plymouth’s National Marine Aquarium, are all attending the three day show to promote the county. ...
Why Devon means business at international conference showcase in 2011
Go to Stand B640 to see exactly what the county has to offer
Devon offers a wide range of outstanding conference and event venues combined with excellent road, rail and airport links. Determined to show that its facilities and hospitality are second to none, Visit Devon and Conference Torquay, together with a broad range of stand partners, have joined forces for the first time at International Confex 2011 to demonstrate exactly why the county has so much to offer the national conference sector and event organisers.....
Beat the February blues with Half Term heaven in Devon
Beat the February blues with adorable spring lambs and the glories of birdsong in an award winning RHS garden which can be enjoyed by all the family this February Half Term in Devon. But the half term holiday also has some surprises in store with one of Devon’s most famous landmarks being transformed as part of a major arts animation event. www.visitdevon.co.uk
Exeter’s historic and magnificent cathedral will be lit up with spectacular animation to celebrate this year’s Animated Exeter film festival (14 – 26 February). The internationally acclaimed London artists Tura will create a breath-taking projection called Isca Obscura on the cathedral’s iconic north-side between 18, 19 and 20 Feb. The cutting-edge piece will be aided by pioneering effects designed by i-DAT, the Digital Research Group at the University of Plymouth. ...
Visit Devon welcomes £100 million boost for British tourism
Visit Devon has welcomed Government plans for a £100 million marketing programme to promote Britain as a major international tourism destination.
The Prime Minister David Cameron has announced that the Government is forming a partnership with VisitBritain as well as businesses in the tourism and travel sector to launch a global marketing campaign which could bring thousands of new visitors and major investment to Britain....
Premier Devon welcome awaits rugby fans as Leicester Tigers take on the Exeter Chiefs
Leicester Tigers rugby fans can expect a premier welcome when they visit Devon as their team takes on the Exeter Chiefs on Sunday 2 January. The Chiefs have been recently promoted to the rugby Premiership. www.visitdevon.co.uk/rugby.
The General Manager of Visit Devon Rosie Bates says that visiting fans will receive a warm Devon welcome to the city: “There is a real buzz about the Exeter Chiefs being in the premiership and we are looking forward to welcoming supporters of Leicester Tigers. Their fans will find that Devon has a wide range of exciting places to stay and to visit. Exeter will not disappoint as a vibrant city with a great reputation for fine restaurants and lively bars where fans can either celebrate or drown their sorrows.”...
Spring is heaven in North Devon
Step into spring in 2011 and enjoy the glorious spring bulb displays in some of the UK’s most inspiring gardens in the wonderful setting of North Devon.
North Devon is home to an array of award-winning gardens such as the world famous RHS garden at Rosemoor as well as Tapeley Park and Hartland Abbey where visitors will be delighted by the drifts of early-flowering bulbs such as snowdrops, hellebores and carpets of crocuses and cheerful daffodils....
Visit Devon supports call to cut tourism VAT
Visit Devon has welcomed a call for a reduction in tourism VAT as a means of helping the industry during the current economic downturn.
Delegates at the South West Liberal Democrat conference in Plymouth have called on their party to cut the VAT rate on tourism to 5% as a way of helping to create jobs in struggling seaside economies such as Torbay. The current tourism VAT rate is in line with the current general rate of 17.5% but the Government is expected to raise that rate to 20% from January 2011....
Visit Devon congratulates Devon finalists in SW Tourism Excellence Awards
Following the success of the first ever Devon Tourism Awards, Visit Devon congratulates those finalists and other Devon businesses featuring in next month’s line up for the South West Tourism Excellence Awards.
These include East Devon based Mazzard Farm which is on the shortlist in the Sustainable Tourism awards after being named Winner of Winners in the Devon Tourism Awards, together with Pennywell Farm, near Buckfastleigh, and Wheatland Farm in Winkleigh which are both also strong contenders for the sustainability award....
Three national restaurant awards put South Devon on the UK foodie map
South Devon is fast becoming a top UK foodie destination following the announcement of three prestigious national awards for the area’s chefs and restaurants.
The Riverford Field Kitchen at Buckfastleigh has won the ‘Best Ethical’ restaurant award at the Observer Food Monthly awards for the second year running....
Go to the races in 5-star style with Visit Devon this autumn
The chance to enjoy one of the most prestigious events in the horse-racing calendar in style is being offered by Visit Devon this autumn. Visit: www.visitdevon.co.uk.
Visit Devon is teaming up with the Racing Post and the 5-star Bovey Castle Hotel to offer a free luxurious racing break to see the William Hill Haldon Cup at Exeter racecourse...
Premier Devon welcome awaits rugby fans as London Irish take on the Exeter Chiefs
London Irish rugby fans can expect a premier welcome when they visit Devon as their team takes on the Exeter Chiefs on Saturday 23rd October who have been newly promoted to the rugby Premiership. www.visitdevon.co.uk/rugby.
The General Manager of Visit Devon Rosie Bates says that visiting fans will receive a warm Devon welcome to the city: “There is a real buzz about the Exeter Chiefs being in the premiership and we are looking forward to welcoming supporters of London Irish. Their fans will find that Devon has a wide range of exciting places to stay and to visit. Exeter will not disappoint as a vibrant city with a great reputation for fine restaurants and lively bars where fans can either celebrate or drown their sorrows.”...
October Half Term sees visitors to Devon discovering the weird and wonderful and not just with a Halloween theme!
Devon is a great place to be for families looking for something different this October Half Term and although there is plenty to satisfy fans of Halloween, there are also a number of fun and educational options available.
This month Devon, a county known for its dedication to food, is encouraging children to get involved in the Devon Celebration of Food and Darts Farm has the perfect event on 27 Oct when it invites Kids (to go) Wild About Food. Local education ranger James Chubb will be exploring the local landscape, searching for wild ingredients to make wild bread. Participating foragers will take the wild harvest back to the cookery studio where they will all learn how to make wild bread, which will then be feasted on with homemade pumpkin soup for lunch! www.dartsfarm.co.uk. Also check out Pumpkin Day and Woodcrafts at RHS Garden Rosemoor, another participant in the Devon Celebration of Food on 24 October: www.rhs.org.uk/rosemoor. ...
North Devon community helps soldier hero have wedding of a lifetime!
A soldier who suffered horrific injuries in Afghanistan will enjoy the wedding of a lifetime on Friday, 1 October thanks to a North Devon community that has stepped in to provide everything from a magnificent venue to a falconry display and designer wedding dress for the bride.
Lance Corporal Andy Thomas serving with the Royal Marines and a resident of Combe Martin, serving at RMB Chivenor, together with his bride Karly Goodman, are the recipients of a very unusual gift from their local community. A flow of bad news from Afghanistan and the emotional images of fallen personnel being repatriated through Wootton Bassett prompted the owners of Classic Carriages to offer its Rolls Royce wedding cars as a gift to a deserving member of the local armed forces as a token gesture in recognition of their efforts. ...
A local Tourism Partnership covering the areas of East Devon, Exeter, Mid Devon and parts of Teignbridge has launched its new m
Derek Phillips, chair of the Tourism Partnership said:
“To ensure the area is marketed effectively we appointed ‘The Marketing Department’, an Exeter based full service marketing agency, to undertake research on previous visitors to the area. The results of the research has also helped develop and inform 3 national marketing campaigns which are planned for the next 12 months and will focus on cultural, activity and family holidays. A regional campaign is also planned, which is hoped to encourage people from the West Country to holiday within the Heart of Devon”....
Shortlist for the Devon Tourism Awards 2010 is announced
Devon’s leading tourism businesses have been short-listed for the Devon Tourism Awards which will be presented at a prestigious ceremony at the end of the month.
There are seven categories in the competition which celebrates the cream of the Devon tourism industry and which is also designed to raise the profile of the county’s high performing tourism providers. The best business will then be selected from the seven categories for the coveted Winner of Winners Award. The winners will finally be announced at the awards ceremony on September 30 at the Thurlestone Hotel in South Devon. www.visitdevon.co.uk/devonawards...
Heart of Devon reports rise in visitor numbers over summer months
Tourism businesses in the Heart of Devon area have seen an increase in visitor numbers over the summer months. The newly branded Heart of Devon tourism partnership attributes this to a targeted and focused national marketing campaign promoting the Heart of Devon area and an online campaign that has seen a leap of 129% visitors to the website. Check out: www.heartofdevon.com.
Despite the recession and other areas of the South West experiencing a decline in visitor numbers (South West Tourism ‘How’s Business Survey August 2010), tourism providers in East Devon, Exeter, Mid Devon and parts of Teignbridge have experienced an increase in bookings for June, July and August, compared to the same period in 2009....
South Devon restaurant Ode celebrates prestigious national food award
An inspiring South Devon restaurant which champions local produce has won a prestigious national food award in the Good Food Guide.
The Ode restaurant situated in the picturesque village of Shaldon near Teignmouth has received the Editors’ award for “Best Use of Local Produce” in the “Which Good Food Guide 2011”....
From a film star goose to surfing winter waves or carols in candle-lit forests - something different for visitors to Devon this
Christmas and a fat juicy goose are a seasonal combination that visitors to Devon may be expecting served up to them in a county that provides the ultimate package for all the senses. But one goose that wont be cooked in Devon this Christmas is Gideon, soon to be star of the new Steven Spielberg film War Horse, and currently resident at Two Bridges Coaching Inn (www.twobridges.co.uk) at the heart of Dartmoor, where a three night Christmas break (complete with film star slightly prone to hissy fits) can be had for £550.
With a unique combination of both stunning coast and countryside, Christmas and Winter time is the ideal season to experience Devon with family or friends. For large extended families or friends wanting to get together, Redland House nestling in to the North Devon hillside overlooking Instow Bay is the perfect solution, sleeping 22 in the lap of luxury with a dining room that seats 24 complete with roaring log fire. With access to outside caterers and a huge choice of local pubs and restaurants no one needs to be slaving over a hot stove. Check out: www.redlandhouse.co.uk ....
From Power Boats to the Red Arrows…Visit Devon for a Thrilling August Bank Holiday
Visit Devon this August Bank Holiday for a weekend of high speed thrills with awe inspiring aerobatics from the Red Arrows and the glamour and high octane rush of power boat racing.
South Devon will be the venue for one of the most popular and widely anticipated events of the summer season, with the Port of Dartmouth Royal Regatta (26 - 28 August). This annual event attracts around 50,000 people to the banks of the beautiful River Dart to enjoy the spectacle of more than two hundred racing yachts and rowing boats taking part in 45 races during the three-day regatta....
Visit Devon welcomes Prime Minister’s call to back UK tourism industry
Visit Devon has welcomed the Prime Minister David Cameron’s call for more to be done to market Britain as a destination for foreign visitors as well as those at home.
David Cameron has urged people to be “more proud” of the UK, its natural assets and its history. He also said that more is to be done so that the UK can break into the top five most visited destinations in the world. ...
Visit South Devon for Blackpool Sands one of the UK’s best beaches
Blackpool Sands in South Devon boasts one of the UK’s best beaches and also has an award winning café according to the Guardian and Coast magazine.
They have both published recent surveys of Britain’s best beaches and Blackpool Sands was highlighted as one of the most outstanding beaches to visit and to swim at....
Dressed crab….how a famous Aussie chef made the Shaldon Water Festival the best ever!
Dressed crab with an Australian twist was very much on the menu this year for the highly successful Shaldon Water Festival in South Devon at the weekend. The famous Australian chef Bill Grainger was dressed as a crab as part of the water carnival’s procession to celebrate the fiftieth anniversary of the event.
Visit South Devon, which helped to organise the event, says that the Festival has enjoyed its most successful year on record with more than a thousand people turning out across the day to enjoy a much loved community festival....
Statement on water quality on South Devon beaches from Visit South Devon
Visitors to South Devon can be reassured that beaches in the area have consistently maintained excellent water quality standards for many years. The assurance from the tourism authority Visit South Devon follows recent concerns voiced by Surfers Against Sewage (SAS) to Keep Britain Tidy, the organisation which designates Blue Flag status.
Marketing Manager for Visit South Devon, Sarah Streeter, says that bathing water quality is tested every eight days at local beaches to ensure that the rigorous criteria laid down in the European Bathing Water Directive are met....
“Lets get cracking” for the 50th annual Shaldon Water Festival
Hundreds of crabs, renowned chefs, budding artists and a flotilla of decorated boats will all be heading for the picturesque regency town of Shaldon, near Teignmouth in South Devon next weekend (7 August) for the fiftieth anniversary of the town’s annual water festival.
The “Lets Get Cracking “ campaign to promote South Devon crab organised by Visit South Devon Tourism Partnership is at the heart of the 2010 community celebration, which also raises thousands of pounds for local charities. www.visitsouthdevon.co.uk ....
Late surge in summer bookings boosts tourism in Devon
The “staycation” is here to stay in Devon this summer as tourist attractions and accommodation providers are experiencing a late upsurge in bookings according to the voice of tourism in the county, Visit Devon: www.visitdevon.co.uk.
Visit Devon says that many hotels, B & B’s, campsites, self-catering accommodation providers and tourist attractions are very upbeat about this summer and some are showing an increase in bookings compared to the same period last year, despite the economic downturn. Although bookings are on the increase for many tourism providers in the county, the trend is also for holidaymakers to book their holidays at the very last minute....
Visit South Devon: The UK tourist hotspot for 2010
Visit South Devon this summer and you could be part of a major new tourism trend which has made the area a must see hotspot for 2010! Check out: www.visitsouthdevon.co.uk
The Visit South Devon tourism partnership says that the opening of “cool new boutique hotels and award winning restaurants combined with fantastic visitor attractions are making South Devon a popular destination for the discerning traveller.”...
Visit South Devon quashes rumours about Red Arrows ban at this year’s Dartmouth Royal Regatta
Visitors to Dartmouth Royal Regatta beginning in glorious South Devon on 26 August will see the Red Arrows mounting a spectacular display scheduled for 27 August, contrary to recent rumours and reports in the local and national press suggesting that the display had been banned this year.
At a recent Dartmouth Regatta Committee meeting there were concerns over the effect of the vibrations of the craft on the buildings, sparking rumours that the display was banned due to health and safety concerns over damaged buildings from a fire in the town back in May 2010. However, the arrival of scaffolding has secured the buildings effectively....
Visit Devon and enjoy the pick of the autumn crop!
Visit Devon this Autumn and indulge all your five senses with a season bursting with exciting festivals and events that will please the eye, stimulate the mind, soothe the soul and delight the taste buds.
For more events and information on accommodation in Devon, including late availability and special offers check out: www.visitdevon.co.uk....
Visit Devon for Free Family fun this Summer!
With budgets being squeezed ever tighter, the long Summer holidays can be a trying and expensive time for parents striving to keep their youngsters entertained without straining the family finances even further. But family fun really can be free, especially in the glorious county of Devon, which was just made for families and the creation of childhood memories: you just need to know where to look.
Every summer many parents head for the freedom of the beach and in Devon families are spoiled for choice with some of the UK’s best beaches....
Visit Devon where opera really gets the seal of approval
Visit Devon this summer and you will find that opera is making a splash in the most unexpected places including with the seals off the North Devon coast.
The New Devon Opera will be performing “Traviata Flash Opera” or edited highlights taken from Verdi’s much-loved La Traviata on the streets of Exeter next month, as part of the city’s Summer Festival. But opera singing in Devon appears to have attracted a brand new audience elsewhere....
Large helpings of Devon food served up in two new foodie books!
Two new “foodie” books just published demonstrate why Devon is fast becoming known as one of the best food regions in the UK. Alastair Sawday’s Eat Slow Britain and food lover’s guide Taste Britain feature some of the finest producers from one of the most fertile counties in the UK.
Michael Caines, who features in Taste Britain, and is well known as a chef and restaurateur comments “If Devon was in France or Italy, it would be famous as a great food region. In Devon there’s always a food experience to match the location. It may be a Devon ice cream on a sunny beach, a ploughman’s with some interesting local cheese or a glass of Sharpham’s Devon wine down in the South Hams.”...
South Devon Crab …cracks national tourism campaign
South Devon crab will be the focus for a major new national food tourism campaign which is being launched by the Visit South Devon tourism partnership and the celebrity seafood chef and award-winning restaurateur Mitch Tonks. (9 June*).
The “ Have a cracking time in South Devon” campaign will encourage visitors from across the UK to come to South Devon to enjoy one of most delicious yet undervalued great natural local resources, South Devon crab....
Visit Devon supports campaign for Devon cream teas to get EU protected status
Devon has long been synonymous with the cream tea and now an enterprising Devon farm has launched a campaign to get European protection for the name “Devon cream tea”.
At the opening of the Devon County Show on Thursday, 20 May 2010, Devon-based dairy Langage Farm explained that sub-standard versions of the cream tea with its scone and generous helpings of jam were detrimental to the image of this sought after treat....
Devon businesses get the chance to shine at the new Devon Tourism Awards 2010
Devon’s leading tourism businesses are being invited to take part in the new Devon Tourism Awards 2010 which are being launched by Visit Devon this week.
The awards celebrate the cream of the Devon tourism industry and will help to promote and raise the profile of the county’s high achieving tourism providers....
Escape World Cup Fever…with the girls when you Visit Devon
As a nation prepares for the world cup, not everyone in the UK is excited by the prospect of 63 football matches in a month on TV. For those wishing to escape world cup fever, Visit Devon can offer some exciting alternatives, see: www.visitdevon.co.uk.
Head for the North Devon coast and get a taste of the great outdoors with the Girls on Waves weekend (12th-13th June) which is organised by the award winning Surf South West. Discover the thrill of surfing with one of the UK’s top female surfers, British surf team member Karma Worthington. She and her colleagues at the British Surfing Association surf school at Croyde will teach you all you need to know about surfing in an all female environment, whatever your ability, in the stunning location of the North Devon coast. After a weekend of fun, exhilaration and calorie burning you can then enjoy one of Devon’s famous indulgent traditions, a superb cream tea. Visit: www.surfsouthwest.com, Tel: 01271 890400 and for more details of accommodation and cream teas see: www.northdevon.com....
Visit Devon congratulates Exeter Chiefs on promotion to the Premiership which will give huge boost to off peak tourism
As Exeter Chiefs make history by becoming the first South West team to make it into top flight rugby after their victory against Bristol at the Memorial Stadium, Visit Devon congratulates the team whose victory gives the region a fantastic opportunity to showcase Devon to clubs and supporters in the Premiership.
Visit Devon already has a long standing relationship with The Chiefs and is delighted at the Club’s historical victory and the resultant potential for the tourism sector in the forthcoming season. General Manager of Visit Devon, Rosie Bates, says, “We are long term supporters of Exeter Chiefs and this is incredible news for them and the Club. We are looking forward to extending a warm welcome to all the away supporters from as far away as Newcastle, Leeds, Manchester and London.
Thrill seekers head to Devon for the half term ride of their lives!
From challenging water coasters and giant kites to wild walks and time travel Tudor style, Devon has everything for the active and fun seeking family this Whitsun spring half term.
For more events and information on accommodation in Devon, including late availability and special offers check out: www.visitdevon.co.uk...
90,000 reasons why you should Visit Devon and the County Show
With more than ninety thousand visitors expected at the annual Devon County Show (20 - 22 May), Visit Devon situated in the Devon County Council marquee, will be getting the inside track on the county’s favourite hot spots!
Visit Devon (www.visitdevon.co.uk) is the voice of tourism in the county and will be asking visitors to the show at Westpoint arena near Exeter for their personal recommendations for places to visit in Devon. ...
England’s best large hotel….Devon wins top tourism award
Visit Devon congratulates the Thurlestone Hotel in South Devon which has won the national accolade of being England’s best large hotel.
The hotel near Kingsbridge won the Gold Award in the large hotel category at the Enjoy England Excellence Awards, which were held at Brighton at the weekend. It is the second year running that a Devon hotel has won a major tourism award, the double Michelin star hotel Gidleigh Park was voted Hotel of the Year at the 2009 ceremony....
Devon gets the “R factor” for May Bank Holiday
With apologies to Simon Cowell, Devon will be bracing itself for the “R” factor this May Bank holiday weekend. From swashbuckling and sea shanties at a pirate festival to the eccentric custom of worm charming, Devon has an entertaining weekend of events from the traditional to the unusual that all strike the Right Note!
For more events and information on accommodation in Devon, including late availability and special offers check out: www.visitdevon.co.uk ...
Uncertainty about holidays abroad could mean boost for Devon tourism
Tourists worried about booking flights for holidays abroad this summer could bring a welcome boost for Devon tourism, according to Visit Devon.
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Visit Devon appoints new agency to promote Devon as the premier visitor destination in the UK
Visit Devon has appointed new Dorset based agency A Head for PR Ltd to promote the county as the premier visitor destination in the UK.
Visit Devon is the destination management organisation responsible for promoting Devon and comprises nine member organisations including the six Area Tourism Partnerships. The organisation acts as a voice for tourism in Devon and aims to increase the number of visitors to Devon by promoting the county as a year round quality visitor destination for business or leisure....
Visit Devon backs Kingsbridge hotel competing in England’s Best in Tourism awards
Visit Devon is backing the Thurlestone hotel in South Devon in its bid to become England’s best large hotel.
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'It has been a joy to work with Jane and Gail at A Head for PR. Their infectious enthusiasm for Devon and everything that it has to offer has made the job of the team so much easier. From the word go they have provided us with fantastic ideas and inspiration to promote Devon to keep our approach fresh. They are the ultimate professionals and their patience and determination when working on press trips and dealing with the myriad of partners and suppliers is a testament to the way they do business. I cannot recommend them highly enough!'.
Rosie Bates, General Manager, Visit Devon
Our Clients
- 1610
- A Head for PR
- Ashburton Cookery School
- Brainwave
- Camper and Nicholsons Marinas
- Coast and Country Cottages
- Corbin 0'Grady Studio
- Corrymoor Socks
- Dartmoor Tourism Partnership
- Destination South West
- Devon Food and Drink
- First Women
- Forever Campervans
- Harvestories
- Heart of Devon
- Henry Hunt
- Home Scents
- Inspired 4 Life Coaching
- Ivan Rendall & Co
- Millbrook Cottages
- MindfulnessUK
- Mobile Cocktail Bar Company
- Muffin Heaven
- North Devon +
- Party Packs
- ProPoint
- Ribcraft
- SCCI Energy
- SCCI Group
- Sidona Group
- Somerset Leisure
- Southern First Aid Training
- South West Coast Path
- Taunton Means Business
- The Bedford Hotel
- Toad Hall Cottages
- Trees For Rent
- Two Bridges Hotel
- Unsuited and Unbooted
- Visit Devon
- Visit South Devon
- Westcountry Galleries
- Winning Smiles
