Somerset Blog
June 2013
Bryan Ferry talks about his love for the 1920s era
PRESS RELEASE
All that jazz!
Bryan Ferry & the Bryan Ferry Orchestra will perform in the spectacular grounds of Glastonbury Abbey on Sunday August 11.
With the film, the Great Gatsby, currently taking the country by storm, Ferry was...
FORDE ABBEY GARDENS – A KALEIDOSCOPE OF COLOUR !
Forde Abbey, Near Chard, Somerset,TA20 4LU 01460 220231
www.fordeabbey.co.uk 01460 221290 (information line) 01460 220231
The sudden burst of good weather has led to an explosion of plants flowering in the stunning grounds of Forde Abbey...
Cheddar Gorge welcomes Gromit - Unleashed!
Cheddar Gorge, in Somerset, has come-up with another “cracking idea”. From July 1 st , it will be joining-in with a public art exhibition, taking to the streets of Bristol and the surrounding area.
Led by the renowned Aardman Animations team,...
‘Five Star hotel’ for elephants confirmed
Elephant Eden is unveiled for first media tour as Noah’s Ark Zoo Farm confirms UKs largest elephant habitat will open this summer in Bristol
Elephant Eden, set to become the largest elephant habitat in northern Europe, is planned to open...
May 2013
Flog It! comes to Longleat
The popular BBC One antiques programme Flog It! presented by Paul Martin, is coming to Wiltshire on Thursday 18th July.
Flog It! – the major BBC antiques show is now on its twelfth series and regularly achieves an audience of over two million viewers in its...
Millions of people now become interested in Somerset as April 2013 cumulative results are announced.
Hits in first four months of 2013 - 10,713,320 +47%
Number of Visits in first four months of 2013 - 262,817 +17%
Unique users in first four months of 2013 - 202,944 + 20%
These webstats are taken...
Glastonbury’s Tour Another First for Glastonbury
PRESS RELEASE
Glastonbury’s Tour is an exciting project that will create a virtual Glastonbury online. Users will be able, via interlinking high-resolution interactive panoramas, to move around the town, up and down the full length of the High Street as well...
Abbey’s museum wins accreditation
PRESS RELEASE
Glastonbury Abbey’s museum has been awarded the status of Full Accreditation from Arts Council England. The Accreditation Scheme sets nationally agreed standards for UK museums. To qualify, museums must meet standards on how they are...
The first Somerset Tourism Business Awards have been postponed until October, organisers have announced.
The team behind the ceremony, originally planned for this month, say the extra time will give the awards a better opportunity to reflect the achievements and successes within the county's tourism industry.
The event, now on October 3 at the Grand Pier in Weston-super-Mare,...
Visit Somerset hold important meeting with the Chinese Embassy
From left to right; David Gardner from First Great Western, Sir Graham Watson MEP & Minister Cong Peiwu and Vice Chairman Visit Somerset, Mike Ogborne from First Travel Solutions.
For Immediate Release:
Monday 20 th saw the Visit Somerset team meeting...
UK Trade & Investment Visit Somerset News
Interested in working with Somerset Tourism Association & UK Trade & Investment to attract more overseas visitors?
John Turner Vice Chairman of Visit Somerset is inviting people to join Visit Somerset and UKTI on a mission to create key...
Butcombe Brewery Partners ‘Eat, Drink, Bristol Fashion’ and Launches Scourmont Abbey Monks Best Kept Secret – Chimay GoldQueen Square, Bristol 13th-27th May 2013
Butcombe, the West Country’s fastest growing brewery, is one of the key sponsors at this year’s ‘Eat, Drink, Bristol Fashion’ (EDBF) carnival. Visitors to the carnival will not only enjoy two of Butcombe’s famous ales on...
Good olde medieval merriment comes to England’s smallest city, Wells; A Knight At The Palace evening spectacular
The Bishop’s Palace is opening its medieval doors after hours as it takes part in Museums at Night once again; a national event organised by Culture 24 to encourage museums and heritage attractions to offer visitors something a bit different.
Building on the...
A quick guide to e-marketing
Whether you're trying to sell products or promote a company, if your communication is directed to particular individuals the laws relating to data protection and e-marketing will apply.
Restrictions on collecting data have been in place for some time. ...
The Glastonbury Abbey Extravaganza with Bryan Ferry & The Bryan Ferry Orchestra
PRESS RELEASE
Bryan Ferry & The Bryan Ferry Orchestra will perform in the spectacular grounds of Glastonbury Abbey, Festival founder Michael Eavis announced today.
Bryan Ferry will perform at the Abbey on Sunday August 11 with the night ending with the...
VISITENGLAND LISTS WINCANTON WITHIN TOP TEN RACECOURSES FOR CUSTOMER EXPERIENCE
...
April 2013
The Bishop’s Palace & Gardens, Wells, Somerset – Opens daily until Friday 20 December 2013
July - December 2013 events listings
Set in the heart of the smallest City in England, the Bishop’s Palace has been home to the Bishops of Bath and Wells for over 800 years.
Experience crossing the drawbridge and walking under the portcullis...
International high flyers to star at Weston beach event
International guests from Holland and France will be coming to Weston to perform at the Kite Festival taking place on the beach over the weekend of 8 & 9 June 2013 .
Jan van Leeuwen, from Holland, designs and makes all his own kites with his family and is...
The American Museum in Britain Appoints Consulting Development Officer
Cherie Rogers, Chief Consultant of Common Aim Communications and a prominent fundraiser and award-winning journalist, joins the team of the American Museum in May 2013 . Announcing Ms Rogers’s appointment, Museum Director Richard Wendorf said that...
It’s Medieval May at The Bishop’s Palace!
*** PRESS RELEASE ***
The weather is brightening up and the summer is peeking round the corner. The new Community Garden is now open to the public and with more garden developments opening later in the summer, it really is all happening over the drawbridge! This...
World famous swans get worldwide viewing platform as Swan Cam is re-installed at medieval palace
*** PRESS RELEASE ***
Swan Cam has been re-installed at The Bishop’s Palace, Wells to share exciting wildlife developments surrounding the palace’s world famous swans, known for ringing a bell alongside the Gatehouse for food.
Swans...
SOMERSET CIDER & CHEESE FAYRE BANK HOLIDAY SUNDAY 5TH MAY, NOON ‘TIL DUSK
Ring O Bells, Compton Martin, BS40 6JE Tel: 01761 221284
PRESS RELEASE
The Ring O Bells, Compton Martin, is organising its first “Somerset Cider and Cheese Fayre” bringing together the finest cider and cheese makers from across the...
Visit England in conjunction with Visit Somerset requesting your support of annual survey to help understand our county's tourism statistics better
I wanted to follow up on one action, which was to let you know who in Somerset had (or hadn’t) responded to our Annual Attractions Survey. The attached spreadsheet shows who was invited to participate, and what the latest status is - so far we’ve had responses...
RENOWNED historian Geoffrey Ashe has become the figurehead of the new Friends of Glastonbury Abbey Membership Scheme.
Pictured L-R – Geoffrey Ashe, John Brendon, chairman of the Abbey trustees, and Janet Bell, Abbey Director.
The nonagenarian, who is an expert on the King Arthurian legend, has played a central role in promoting the Abbey, said John Brendon, chairman of the...
Orchestra in a Field 2013 has been postponed until next year.
PRESS STATEMENT
The inspirational and popular event made its debut in 2012 to wide acclaim and attracted a local, national and international audience. The event which has the energy of a rock festival with an orchestra at its heart was due to take place at...
Orchestra in a Field 2013 has been postponed until next year.
PRESS STATEMENT
The inspirational and popular event made its debut in 2012 to wide acclaim and attracted a local, national and international audience. The event which has the energy of a rock festival with an orchestra at its heart was due to take place at...
Glastonbury's Charter for the Environment
Duncan Bannatyne OBE & Visit Somerset Ambassador is back in Somerset, meeting with Visit Somerset’s team and Bristol Airport talking tourism.
Press Release:
On Friday 19 th April Duncan Bannatyne OBE has invited the Vice Chairman of the Somerset Tourism Association and the Head of Marketing at Bristol Airport to get an update on tourism in the region.
With Duncan’s hotel...
Association conference is professionally facilitated for first time as Visit Somerset raises the professional level on its conference performances
Peter Woodward, facilitator.
Biographical note
I am an independent facilitator with 20 years of practical experience. I address all agendas but have a special interest in sustainable development, including climate change, green innovation, resource...
Fantastic Web stats as the first quarter of 2013 passes.
As it stands year on year the Visit Somerset site still shows no slowing down in web traffic, look at these stats to the end of March 2013:
Hit rate up until the end of March: 7546972 Million! 52.00% + on the...
Regency Purchasing Group The best Wall’s Ice Cream deal in the UK
Regency Purchasing Group
The best Wall’s Ice Cream deal in the UK
£500 worth of stock to each Regency Purchasing Memberjoining before end of April 2013*
Other STA members said:
We are delighted with the support,service and competitive terms we have received...
March 2013
STEVE BACKSHALL, PRESENTER OF CBBC’s DEADLY 60 JOINS LONGLEAT THIS EASTER TO HOST LIVE SHOWS
STEVE BACKSHALL, PRESENTER OF CBBC’s DEADLY 60,
JOINS LONGLEAT THIS EASTER TO HOST LIVE SHOWS
Longleat Safari & Adventure Park is turning Deadly this Easter and there’s only one person to call – Steve Backshall, star of...
Brynn and Wynn, known for causing a few ripples in their previous hometown look set to do the same in Wells at The Bishop’s Palace
*** PRESS RELEASE ***
A couple with a love of exploring and causing a few ripples in their previous hometown look set to do the same in their new hometown of Wells at The Bishop’s Palace. But this characterful couple have a penchant for immersing themselves in the...
LOCAL EVENTS IN THE STREET/GLASTONBURY AREA
THURSDAY 21 ST MARCH
STREET – Millfield School – Johnson Hall Foyer – “Tea and Music” at 4.15pm. Free admission to an informal concert to hear pupils give their first performance on a new piece. For information telephone 01458 444404.
THURSDAY 21...
Taunton Deane Events, 'Somerset' Thanks to Taunton Tourist Information Centre April 2013
01/04/2013
to 30/04/2013
Sale of local crafts in Taunton Tourist Information Centre, Library, Paul Street
Crafts by Gill Mercer and Jewellery by Beads by Design, Janice Day and Julie Griffiths
...
International and Domestic Marketing conference 2013
Latest message from the Vice Chairman John Turner.
Hi all,
I just didn’t want any more time to pass without thanking you all for your attendance last Wednesday and all of your fantastic input, whether it be presenting, facilitating, adding input from the audience...
Cheddar Gorge embraces English Tourism Week
Cheddar Gorge and Caves is offering local, Somerset residents a special offer for English Tourism Week - the chance to visit for 50% off normal admission prices and kids go free!
On Friday 22 March, Tessa Munt, the MP for Wells (which covers the Cheddar area)...
The Bannatyne Trusts Charity Ball raises thousands with a little help from Somerset businesses
Photography by Laura Zaky
The recent Charlton House ball to raise money and awareness for The Bannatyne Charitable Trust was a resounding success. Charlton House was quoted as saying, 'they were overwhelmed by the support and generosity from many businesses...
Photographic Exhibition Brad Wakefield Clevedon Pier
Chinese Educational schedules are put together supported by Visit Somerset
Visit Somerset is working closely and coordinating with 'Unieducation' in China bringing 6 groups over from China in July to September of this year, we will announced more shortly, however in the meantime here is the potential itinerary.
...
Enjoy North Somerset!
Take time out and explore rural North Somerset, you’ll be surprised at the wide variety of landscapes and experiences available in such a compact area.
North Somerset’s rich and varied landscape offers spectacular coastline with stretches of long golden sand,...
A Glastonbury Experience business and fundraising event
With 2012 seeing an ever-growing interest in Glastonbury worldwide, Glastonbury Pilgrim Reception Centre in partnership with local film-maker Dharam Barrett, are producing a documentary film about the town and told by the community. Its purpose is to capture the aspects of...
February 2013
LONGLEAT – DEADLIER AND WETTER IN 2013
Longleat Safari & Adventure Park is set to unveil a series of major new attractions for 2013.
Following on from the success of last year’s new developments which included the new Gorilla Colony, Cheetah Kingdom and African Village, this year the...
2013 Web stats news update from Visit Somerset.
Hi all, just a quick update to let you know that Visit Somerset continues to develop and find opportunities to bring tourism into the county. Recent examples have been attending the Coach Tourism Council networking conference in Bristol and being introduced to many great contacts...
Glastonbury Abbey today announced its line-up of events for 2013 with a feast of music, theatre and talks.
&nb...
Taunton Deane TIC Events, Feb/March 2013 'Somerset' (Thanks to Taunton Tourist Information Centre )
01/03/2013
to 30/03/2013
Sale of local crafts in Taunton Tourist Information Centre, Library, Paul Street Jewellery by Beads by Design, Janice Day, Julie Griffiths and Gill Mercer
Tourist...
Events listings are launched now via Somerset blog on Visit Somerset site now.
LOCAL EVENTS IN THE
STREET AREA
THURSDAY 21 ST FEBRUARY – SUNDAY 3 RD MARCH
THURSDAY 21 ST FEBRUARY
STREET – Strode Theatre – Film “Great Expectations” (12A)...
Safari guide in line for national tourism super star award.
A safari guide at Longleat Safari & Adventure Park has been nominated for a prestigious national travel award.
Wayne Grimston, who escorts visitors on VIP Safari Tours at the award-winning Somerset/Wiltshire attraction, is among 10 finalists for the title...
BBC WORLDWIDE AND LONGLEAT JOIN FORCES FOR A REAL LIFE DEADLY ADVENTURE
...
‘Noah’s Ark Zoo Farm is delighted to receive recognition in the South West Tourism Awards
‘Noah’s Ark Zoo Farm is delighted to receive recognition in the South West Tourism Awards for our bespoke Zoo Keeper Experience. We were highly commended for the category Tourism Activity, Sport & Experience of the year for the quality and level of customer service...
Great Membership advertising rates in Weston super Mare
As we begin to work more extensively with our tourism partners in the region and with the imminent news of major Somerset alliance soon to be made, one our partners in the Weston super Mare region is supporting our members in the region with great local advertising rates...
Why Do You Need a Buying Group
Summer is just around the corner, and we all hope the hospitality industry of all kinds will flourish with al fresco dining, special events and long lazy evenings with a drink among friends. So - why should you need Regency?
Put at its simplest, Regency will save...
January 2013
Vibrant colours of Glastonbury Abbey inspire new exhibition
Press Release:
Photocall: February 5 11am Bronwen Bradshaw with her etchings before they are displayed in the Museum.
Attached images show: Holyest Erth and A Walk Through the Abbey both by Bronwen Bradshaw
THE vibrant colours of Glastonbury Abbey have...
Woo at the Zoo! Valentines fun and spring time events at Noah’s Ark.
PRESS RELEASE
Noah’s Ark Zoo Farm have big plans for the start of their new season on Saturday 2 nd February. Visitors are invited to make Valentine’s Day special by bringing their loved ones on a date to the zoo. It’s an ideal day out for animal lovers,...
American Museum in Britain Events,Workshops, Music Series 2013
*All events and activities included with Gardens only admission (unless otherwise noted).
*All participants must register to take part in courses, workshops and lectures.
To register, phone 01225 820866 or email workshops@americanmuseum.org
...
Taunton Deane Events, 'Somerset' (Thanks to Taunton Tourist Information Centre )
01/02/2013
to 28/02/2013
Sale of local crafts in Taunton Tourist Information Centre, Library, Paul Street Jewellery by Beads by Design, Janice Day, Julie Griffiths and Millibeads
Tourist Information...
Tourism trade event for visitor attractions, accommodation businesses and organisers of group visits and days-out
Tourism trade event for visitor attractions, accommodation businesses and organisers of group visits and days-out, for the start of the new 2013 season.
Exhibition for visitor attractions and services to display their 2013 literature, packages and special offers for accommodation...
As the Chinese New Year approaches Visit Somerset have Chinese media visiting Somerset as a Chinese transport initiative is launched from London.
Press Release.
IMMEDIATE RELEASE
The first Chinese familiarisation trip of the year is coming on the 14th January 2013 from the ‘Chinese Weekly’ newspaper in London. They are here to report back on Somerset and the Chinese development of...
Somerset Tourism Awards 2013
Photo by Bob Small.
FOURTEEN categories will form the inaugural Somerset Tourism Business Awards, organisers announced at the end of last year.
The aim of the awards revealed by the Western Daily Press in November/December, is to recognise the...
Glastonbury Tor given surprise role in series finale of Merlin on BBC1
Glastonbury Tor was featured in a surprising finale to the BBC One series Merlin over Christmas.
But locals will have seen through the director's attempts to convince viewers that the Tor is set in the middle of a vast lake, with a backdrop of mountains being the giveaway that...
December 2012
Visit Somerset to post staggering 2012 web statistics .
As 2012 closes the team at Visit Somerset are delighted to post a staggering set of web statistics against severe financial constraints.
Web Traffic 2012
Hits to the site finished up 22,609,087 + 38% on the year
Pages Viewed are 3,405, 290...
Visit Somerset starts working with International language strategy in readiness for 2013 global marketing.
Visit Somerset announce's its support of students at the University of Portsmouth and Plymouth within 'Languages' and 'International commerce'.
As Visit Somerset develops its international marketing strategy, targeting...
Visit Somerset leads the field as they target two of the most influential markets in the world as their 2013 Marketing strategy is already under way.
There is no rest for the Visit Somerset team. As a hugely successful 2012 comes to a close. Already the marketing strategy is being put in place for 2013.
The first quarter of the year already looks particularly strong as the following is now being developed:
The...
Sleigh Full of Toys To Be Delivered To Poorly Children Across the South West
KIND hearted families and organisations across North Somerset have donated hundreds of toys to Puxton Park's Toy Appeal.
International arts centre and gallery plan for Bruton given go-ahead
It is known for its schools and its hilltop dovecote, but soon the little town of Bruton will boast a new attraction – an international arts centre and gallery that could attract thousands of visitors a year.
Hauser & Wirth – one of the world’s leading commercial...
2012 Visit Somerset annual review & celebration of the year.
What a year it has been for the UK with 2012 being the year that we have celebrated the Olympic Games and the incredible grit and determination that saw us create some incredible feats of sporting dynamism and international history, seeing the UK lead the field in so many areas of...
Latest Visit Somerset news.
A recent meeting between the University of Plymouth & Visit Somerset sees potential next steps now put in place that will be discussed by senior lecturers and Professors at a meeting Monday 17th December at the University. If agreed by lecturers it...
Somerset legends, The Wurzels, are to rock Glastonbury Abbey with a fund-raising gig to help the Rescue Our Ruins Appeal.
Press Release
And tickets have gone on sale today – December 7– perfect for Christmas presents, says events coordinator James Stone.
The Wurzels, whose hits include Combine Harvester, Cider Drinker and Morning Glory, will...
Attendee Comments & Feedback from the International Conference held in Wells on 10th April 2013
Firstly thank you to all that attended and supported the event. These events enable us to gain crucial feedback to help develop and build the Somerset brand and move forward in shaping the County as ‘THE’ future NO.1 tourist destination in the UK . We have...
Visit Somerset lead development of Chinese tourism strategy with major communication progress for 2013
Visit Somerset has realised for some years now the importance that China poses to the UK economy for potential tourism opportunities and inward investment.
The Guardian reported back in August:
The Chinese are on the verge of leapfrogging the Germans and Americans...
November 2012
Weston super Food Festival – September 21st/22nd 2013
Weston super Food Festival – September 21st/22nd 2013 Weston super Mare 10am – 5pm Admission Free.
If you love food you’ll love the Weston Super Food Festival!
We can promise a tasty celebration of all that’s good about real food. And that means...
Chairman’s Report to the Somerset Tourism Association AGM – 29 November 2012
Oh, philosophers may sing / Of the troubles of a King / But of pleasures there are many and of worries there are none; / And the culminating pleasure / That we treasure beyond measure / Is the gratifying...
The inaugural Somerset Tourism Business Awards are to be launched shortly with the Western Daily Press.
The aim is to recognise the ‘excellence and professionalism’ of the county’s 3,000 tourism-related businesses, the Somerset Tourism Association’s annual conference at Haynes International Motor Museum will be told today.
John Turner, vice-chairman...
West Somerset Railway plans for 2013!
West Somerset Railway Shortlisted in the Best UK Short Visit at the Group Travel Awards in 2012: http://www.grouptravelawards.com/2012-winners-and-runners-up
In terms of the customer newsletter we have just published our 2013 timetable and special events guide for...
Green issues lead the way for flagship sustainable elephant habitat in North Somersetl for 2013
A unique 20 acre elephant habitat being built this autumn at Noah’s Ark Zoo Farm in Bristol is being focused on long term environmental sustainability in line with the zoos award-winning green credentials.
The North Somerset zoo was recognised with the national...
Plymouth University seeks Visit Somersets help talking the Chinese and the Movies!
Dear John,
I am a lecture in Hospitality, Tourism and Events Management at Plymouth University. Recently at the TMI conference I heard you speak about Clark’s Village and I was wondering if you would be willing (and able) to communicate to some of my students about...
Another Media familiarisation trip comes to Somerset, thanks to the Visit Somerset team, 'to now also include Bath'!
Part of the media trip to be made up of journalists from the Daily Mail!
I am delighted to announce another familiarization trip coming to Somerset ! This will be a record 5 familiarization trips that have now been arranged this year through Visit Somerset! This...
Vice Chairman of Visit Somerset talks at Wells Civic Society 14th November
John
Thank you SO much for your talk last evening; it was one of the most ‘enthused’ meetings we have had!
I hope the photos I took with your camera were ok; if there is one you would like to send to me for possible inclusion with the...
Update on employee-ownership with Clarke Willmott
January 2013 - Business and Legal Blog
Recently the Government issued proposals for a new style of employment contract whereby the employee relinquishes some rights in exchange for shares in the business. Instead of having statutory protection the employee would...
Somerset’s Annual Tourism Conference - Thursday 29 November 2012
Somerset’s Annual Tourism Conference, and the AGM of the Somerset Tourism Association , both take place on Thursday 29 November 2012 at Haynes International Motor Museum at Sparkford.
The AGM in the morning is for STA members only, but everyone involved in local tourism is...
October 2012
Higos Insurance Services Ltd get behind the team at Visit Somerset
The Somerset Tourism Association and its lead brand Visit Somerset are delighted to announce that Higos Insurance Services Ltd are the latest major Somerset company to get behind the STA with financial support. This particular funding will go a long way to help re design and...
Good news for tourism at annual Somerset conference
Somerset’s tourism trade is doing better than most in difficult times, and will do even better next year thanks to new developments. That’s the message for local businesses at this year’s Somerset Tourism Association annual Tourism Conference,...
From German state TV to Chickens feet, Somerset is making great steps!
Well is been another week of really exciting developments for Visit Somerset, as once again, Visit Somerset has made it, its duty, to ensure that the building of important relationships continues, helping to create wider interest of Somerset's great treasures.
...
Visit Somerset' 'Warm Somerset welcome blog'.
Blog September2012
This month saw Mr F, George (aged 13) and I spending a day in Bristol, and a weekend on Exmoor, far flung corners of our county.
Bristol is surprisingly accessible for such a big city. We parked in one of the public car parks in the centre, and whilst...
American Museum in Britain news and events update from Visit Somerset
Away from the bustle of Bath city centre, set within a Georgian Manor and surrounded by stunning views, this Museum holds the finest collection of Americana outside the United States, presented chronologically in Period Rooms with complementing galleries featuring Textiles, Native...
Visit Somerset and North Somerset Council want to know what you think of Weston-super-Mare?
Tell us what you think about visiting Weston-super-Mare and have the chance of winning one of five £20 M&S vouchers
Dear Sir/Madam,
We are contacting you on behalf of North Somerset Council who are currently undertaking some research to explore...
Looking for love: The Witch of Wookey Hole Caves hunts for dream man
'Click the image' is this the man of her dreams?!
" It's Somerset's time. " High praise indeed for Visit Somerset as its recognised outside the County
Feed back concerning the innovative nature of Visit Somerset's work is now being recognised outside the County, as we found out the other day, when to our surpise we recieved a lovely email from one of our 'Visit' colleagues in...
Montacute manuscript of Jack the Ripper published in Chinese
A manuscript discovered at Montacute TV Radio Toy Museum in 2007 has just been translated into traditional Chinese & published in Taiwan! This being just the first of the two versions of Chinese in which it is to be published. It is also to be published in main land...
Somerset News Blog October 20th 2012
Hi all, another busy week in the world of Somerset. Whether its talking 'Weston super Mare' or the re buillding of the Visit Somerset website, to the first County wide tourism awards for Somerset, alot has been happening again!
NEC Update
First in the news...
Why the Chinese are becoming so interested in Somerset?
Hi all and apologies that it has been a little while, since a Visit Somerset blog, however the progress that Visit Somerset and its associated businesses are making in supporting and re positioning Somerset as a brand is incredible. We must thank the likes of Daniel McNicoll of...
Visit Somerset roll out the red carpet for the Chinese Embassy.
PRESS RELEASE.
IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Visit Somerset roll out the red carpet for the Chinese Embassy.
No sooner has Visit Somerset team said goodbye to their first German familiarisation trip of the year, but we are now saying hello to our first...
September 2012
Somerset to show the Chinese Embassy the VIP treatment
Pictured as part of welcoming our international visitors are;
(Middle) David Hall, Deputy Leader Somerset County council and Cabinet member in charge of Economic development and tourism, (Left) Ian Clemment, the National Trust’s, Head Ranger for East Somerset and (Right) John...
German Familiarisation trip initial review update
I just didn’t want any more time to go by without updating you all on another significant small step for Visit Somerset as we once again came together in conjunction with our friends at Flybe and First Travel Solutions to visit in 3 days, 13 Somerset hotels and...
Flybe is working with Visit Somerset again flying in 6 major German tour operators to visit Somerset.
The Somerset Tourism Association (and its lead brand Visit Somerset), is working in conjunction with 'Flybe' and Clarks Village and is delighted to announce the third familiarisation trip of the year, coming to Somerset on the 22 nd through to the 24 th September. Tour...
Illumina – MAGICAL NIGHT TIME GARDEN LIGHT UP AT HESTERCOMBE
Illumina Launches! – PRESS RELEASE
Hestercombe Gardens, Cheddon Fitzpaine, Taunton, Somerset, TA2 8LG 01823 413923 www.hestercombe.com
September 7 th ,8 th , 9 th and 14 th ,15 th and 16 th .
‘It’s...
Hollywood Executive Producer comes to Somerset as 'Glastonbury; Isle of Light' film news, moves forward.
PRESS RELEASE:
For Immediate release.
05/09/12
Information:
Nuala Barton Executive Producer of Glastonbury; Isle of Light, will be visiting Somerset this week, after having several weeks in the capital, with her daughter, actress Mischa...
August 2012
Coach Tourism Council familiarisation trip update
Some of the CTC FAM group at Haynes Motor Museum .
More feed back from the CTC trip:
HI John,
Sorry about contacting you so long after the event but things have been busy, thankfully.
Can I thank your self and Mike for a...
The Second familiarisation trip plans in full swing as we welcome the Coach Tourism Council tomorrow at Wookey Hole hotel
Visit Somerset is in the final stages of welcoming the Coach Tourism Council who will be arriving on Wednesday 29th for a three day tour of Somerset, put together by the Somerset tourism Association and Visit Somerset in an effort to continue marketing Somerset as the preferred...
Visit Somersets roving Customer service guru gives her latest update in an effort to raise the profile of good customer service practise.
‘Enjoying a WARM West Country Welcome’
This month my customer service targets were Clarks Village and the beautiful Cathedral City of Wells.
We went to Clarks Village with a shopping list, and high expectations! The car parking was easy and very good value,...
Visit Somersets roving customer service guru gives her latest update in an effort to raise the profile of good customer service practise in Somerset.
‘Enjoying a WARM West Country Welcome’
This month my customer service targets were Clarks Village and the beautiful Cathedral City of Wells.
We went to Clarks Village with a shopping list, and high expectations! The car parking was easy and very good value,...
The Chalice Well Trust, Glastonbury, invite Visit Somerset to Opening Ceremony of Buddhist Relics Exhibition’
The Chalice Well Trust in Glastonbury have invited Visit Somerset to the opening ceremony of the public display of rare and sacred relics of Buddist Masters at the Chalice Well.
Natasha Wardle from the Chalice Well Trust said; 'I attended Visit Somersets...
Competition announcement with Visit Somerset, Ryanair, Bristol Airport, Clarks Village and the Breeze .
Visit Somerset is delighted to announce, that very shortly it will be teaming up with Bristol Airport, Ryanair, Clarks Village and the Breeze, to offer online competitions to win 15 pairs of return tickets to Poland's capital city Warsaw.
Together with...
'Wells Civic Society' invite 'Visit Somerset' to meet and talk about the future of Somerset tourism.
John Turner Vice Chairman of the 'Somerset Tourism Association' and its lead brand 'Visit Somerset' to give presentation to the 'Wells Civic Society' on the 14th November.
The Civic society have said;' The visitor economy is very significant to...
Coach Tourism Council familiarisation trip update
We are weeks away fron the second familiarisation trip of the year coming to Somerset, in conjunction with the 'Coach Tourism Council '. Five operators will be joining the trip, with the hope of building long standing and strong relationships with the...
Great Little Breaks Familiarisation trip itinerary
'Great Little Breaks' lastest news, sees the first of many Somerset Businesses featured on their new 'Somerset Great Little Breaks page'.
Click the image below
John Turner the Vice Chairman has said; "We are delighetd to be working with 'Great...
Exmoor FAM trip itinerary update
New York Times Journalist Visits Somerset on another of Somersets familiarisation trips organised this year.
Well done to the 'Yarn Market hotel' team who have obvioulsy done a brilliant job! check out the feed back below.
'Dear Chris, Antony...
Introducing Doniford Bay Holiday Park
There’s no need to restrict yourself to just one summer break. Buy a caravan holiday home at Doniford Bay in Somerset and take as many breaks as you like between March and November.
Whether you want to explore the Quantock Hills, take a ride on the West Somerset...
Competition Winners Hilary and Victoria send in photos!
Hilary and Victoria enjoyed their evening of Ballet at Ston Easton Park so much they just wanted to say thank you to Visit Somerset and wanted to share some photo's.
Glad you enjoyed your evening and well done again!
Hilary and daughter Victoria!
...
West Country Radio launch
July 2012
STUNNING creations made from glass are to feature in Glastonbury Abbey’s autumn exhibition
It is timely as new research, led by the University of Reading, revealed earlier this year that finds at the Abbey provide the earliest archaeological evidence for Anglo-Saxon glass-making in Britain.
It found that glass furnaces at the Abbey date to Saxon Britain and are...
Orphaned Stork finds himself a surrogate mum at the zoo
After a tough start to life, an orphaned White Stork called Wally has found a substitute mum at Noah’s Ark Zoo Farm in Bristol... his dedicated Keeper Mandy Patch.
Although nothing like his own feathered species; Wally the White Stork has become attached to...
Sensational Snakes add bite to Summer Shows at Noah’s Ark Zoo Farm
Some of the world’s deadliest snakes will be making a special reappearance this summer at Noah’s Ark Zoo Farm in Wraxall from Monday 30 th July until Saturday 11 th August.
With notorious Black Mambas, King Cobras and Diamond-Back rattlesnakes; visitors can look...
The Grand Pier at Weston super Mare News
Be in with a chance of winning a family ticket to; West Somerset Railway, Wookey Hole, The Grand Pier at Weston-super-Mare, Noahs Ark Zoo Farm and The Fleet Air Arm Museum.
Click the Tor image to enter.
Welcome to the Grand Pier in Weston-super-Mare, the best pier in...
West Somerset Railway News!
Be in with a chance of winning a family ticket to; West Somerset Railway, Wookey Hole, The Grand Pier at Weston-super-Mare, Noahs Ark Zoo Farm and The Fleet Air Arm Museum.
Click the Tor Image below to enter!
Take a heritage steam train...
Dalek Somerset Invasion 2012
Be in with a chance of winning a family ticket to; West Somerset Railway, Wookey Hole, The Grand Pier at Weston-super-Mare, Noahs Ark Zoo Farm and The Fleet Air Arm Museum.
Click the Tor image to enter.
The Original 1960s Dalek Invasion! The number of...
New leader of Somerset County council meets tourism and Clarks Village leaders talking tourism.
Somerset County Council
Press Release
From Left to Right;
Dan Mason Development Director 'REALM LTD' 'Clarks Village',
Bob Smart...
Top 10 'Must do's' in Somerset
Click the image for more details !
The 'Red Arrows' are coming to 'Weston super Mare'!
The Full line up:
Day One Schedule - Monday 23rd July
12.00 – Blades Air Display Team
14.00 – Red Arrows
15.00 – Dakota
16.00 - Spitfire
Day Two Schedule - Tuesday 24th July
12.00– Mustang/Spitfire Display
14.00...
War history comes to life in Somerset!
Click the image for more details.
LOCAL SCHOOLS HELP CREATE CHEDDAR GORGE ART PROJECT
Please see latest news release from Longleat and Richard Blaker’s artist’s impression of the final mural
If you are interested in any photos/filming etc we are currently liaising with the schools re. setting up a photo opportunity with the children painting their...
UFO sighting report near Weston-super-Mare is released to public
Click the UFO to find out more!
Wedmore Opera performing the world premier of the opera Eleanor Vale - 'about a Somerset girl'.
A small group of people, with a wild idea and the skill to realise it. That’s how Wedmore Opera began, 24 years ago.
Fifteen productions, 51 performances and thousands of hours of professional and voluntary effort later, Wedmore Opera is preparing for its next opera –...
Somerset Country Fayre
Ten places you have to visit in Somerset this summer
Click Here
'A warm Westcountry Welcome' How is customer service in your town or village?
John Turner
Click on either above and follow Visit Somerset.
Hi I'm John Turner the 'Vice Chairman' of the 'Somerset Tourism Association' and a 'Chartered Marketer', with a background in retail and business development.
...
Why you should join the Somerset Tourism Association and its lead brand Visit Somerset ?
John Turner MCIM MIFL, 'Chartered Marketer', Vice Chairman of Visit Somerset.
Chartered Institute of Marketing Ambassador for Travel & Tourism in the SW.
Email; john@visitsomerset.co.uk
Hello and a warm...
Glastonbury founder Michael Eavis awarded UCA degree
Click on Michaels photo
Visitors to Bristol take the chance to snap up sight of impressive Nile Crocodiles
Possessing the strongest bite of any animal, and more commonly found lurking with intent in exotic waters of Africa; two impressive scaly crocodiles have arrived at Noah’s Ark Zoo Farm in Wraxall and set up home, an exciting sight being snapped up by visitors.
Nura and...
The 'Somerset Tourism Association', begins huge, 'domestic and international tour operator, marketing push', with eight familiarisation trips booked for Somerset in 2012.
See what our 'First Familiarisation Trip' team have said about the 'Visit Somerset' team and their FAM trip?
The Feed back!
Hi all!
Just wanted to say a MASSIVE THANK YOU and what a superb trip last week was. I have done many Fam...
June 2012
Glastonbury Tor to star in Olympics!
Somerset’s iconic Glastonbury Tor is to form the centrepiece of the impressive Olympic opening ceremony on 27 July as part of Danny Boyle’s ‘Green and Pleasant’ spectacular.
The Tor, which dates back to the 15 th century, will appear at one end of...
Glastonbury Festival 2013 Tickets on sale October 7
Fans of the Glastonbury Festival should stay near their computers at 9am on October 7, 2012, when the tickets for the 2013 Somerset event will officially go on sale. The acts and line-up for 2013 have still to be announced, but this won’t stop tickets being snapped up fast.
...
Burnham-on-Sea has new bid for Mary Portas treatment
The Somerset seaside town of Burnham-on-Sea is to make a second bid to be featured as one of Mary Portas’ project towns for her upcoming Portas Pilots series on Channel 4.
This government-funded project aims to boost high streets, with 12 towns being selected for...
City of Wells to honour two Somerset Olympic gold medallists
Wells born Olympic athletes Mary Rand and Danny Nightingale are to be given the Freedom of the City of Wells, in a presentation ceremony held at Wells Town Hall on July 15, just 12 days before the start of the 2012 London Olympics.
Mary Rand was born and grew up in Wells, Somerset,...
His Royal Highness The Earl of Wessex returns to The Bishop’s Palace to celebrate the development project he launched in 2010
On October 28, 2010 His Royal Highness The Earl of Wessex performed a ‘breaking ground’ ceremony at The Bishop’s Palace launching the multi-million pound development project.
Now, His Royal Highness has been back on June 21st at the...
Giant Olympic rings appear in field near A39 road towards Bath
http://www.thisissomerset.co.uk/Giant-Olympic-rings-appear-field-near-A39-road/story-16433215-detail/story.html
Fantastic Customer feed back from our very own West Somerset Railway
Hi West Somerset Railway.
I just...
RNAS Yeovilton International Air Day 2012 to remember Falklands Campaign
http://www.thisissomerset.co.uk/RNAS-Yeovilton-International-Air-Day-2012/story-16435036-detail/story.html
Opinions still divided over Cheddar Gorge cable car proposals
http://www.thisissomerset.co.uk/Opinions-divided-Cheddar-Gorge-cable-car/story-16428871-detail/story.html
New 'big cat' sighting reported on moorland near Glastonbury
http://www.thisissomerset.co.uk/New-big-cat-sighting-reported-moorland-near/story-16428844-detail/story.html
Calling all Mini owners...
MINI owners from Somerset are being invited to display their cars at an event taking place at a garden centre in the county next month (July, 2012).
The Mini Show will be held at Sanders Garden World in Brent Knoll on Sunday, July 8.
Phil Tyzack, Manager...
Love-struck Giraffes give birth to a beautiful boy for Father’s Day, in popular zoo love story
Be in with a chance of winning a family ticket to; The West Somerset Railway, Wookey Hole, The Grand Pier at Weston-super-Mare, Noahs Ark Zoo Farm and The Fleet Air Arm Museum.
Click The Tor image below to enter!
Meet gorgeous George, North...
Discount tickets when you stay at Cheddar Camping and Caravanning Club Site!
Reasons to book Cheddar Camp Site?
Money off entry into local attractions; Cheddar Gorge and Wookey Hole.
Onsite baking making fresh bread, croissants and pastries daily.
Two brand new holiday caravans for hire, with luxury facilities.
...
A Welcome from the VisitSomerset team with our second E Newsletter talking of all things Hollywood!!
A very warm welcome from the Visit Somerset team. This our second E news letter since Visit Somerset was taken over by the Somerset Tourism Association'. We are very proud of our county and want to continue to communicate all the benefits of Somerset...
The traditional family holiday, Camping and caravanning!
Somerset is simply the home of the traditional family holiday.
Do you remember...
* Donkey rides at the beach or feeding animals at the farm?
* Exploring Trains, Planes, Automobiles & Caves?
Build fond childhood memories with your children here in Somerset with...
Charles Hazlewood is to become an ambassador of the 'Somerset Tourism Association' and its lead brand, 'Visit Somerset'
Charles Hazlewood conducting. Picture Jason Bryant.
It's official Charles Hazlewood is to become an ambassador of the 'Somerset Tourism Association' and its lead brand, 'Visit Somerset'. He will join; Simon King OBE Naturalist/TV Presenter...
The Covent Garden Dance Company are coming to Somerset!
Visit Somerset and Ston Easton Park hotel are pleased to announce 'Ballet in the Park' at Ston Easton Hotel.
Visit Somerset in celebration of Ballet coming to the county is giving away a pair of tickets to the ballet event.
Please click HERE to enter the...
A PICNIC AND A PLAY IN THE PARK
Open-Air Production of MUCH ADO ABOUT NOTHING Touring in July/August
This August Folksy Theatre will be touring with an open-air production of Shakespeare’s ‘Much Ado About Nothing’.
...
Wally the Stork brings a bundle of joy to the zoo
A white stork has been the symbol of new births and the joy of parenting for decades. At Noah’s Ark Zoo Farm this month, the successful rearing of a special stork chick affectionately named ‘Wally’ has brought the popular metaphor to life, with a...
DAM GOOD FOR BATS! At 'Hestercombe Gardens'
Hi, at last the huge task of re-building the dam wall in a new valley at Hestercombe is complete and the old lake has refilled. Details are below and I have included 2 images. Do call if you would like further details or to come and visit the valley. The rare bats, by the way are...
Book Signing - Maisie the Palace cat is star of new children’s book based in England’s smallest city
Visitors to The Bishop’s Palace will have no doubt spotted Maisie, the Palace cat wandering around the medieval Palace and gardens getting into all sorts of mischief on her adventures.
These comical and heart-warming adventures have inspired one of her best friends, Carol...
One of the best Queen tribute bands in th UK coming to Somerset at the end of June
One of the UKs greatest Abba tribute acts coming to Somerset at beginning of July
Photographs from the Royal Bath & West from 'This is Somerset'
The very best of Somerset in a great photographic review.
Well done the Bath and West show team.
http://www.thisissomerset.co.uk/pictures/Royal-Bath-West-3/pictures-16259123-detail/pictures.html
http://www.thisissomerset.co...
May 2012
Swans Of Wells latest news!
More Great news from The Swans of Wells 11/09/12
...
Couple pluck hedgehog from Bishop’s Palace moat in Wells
http://www.thisissomerset.co.uk/Couple-pluck-hedgehog-Bishop-8217-s-Palace-moat/story-16184346-detail/story.html
Glastonbury Abbey needing to raise vital funds to save the ruins
Action is needed now to save the ruins for future generations and if everyone living or working in Somerset gave just £1 the appeal target would be reached.
To mark the launch and the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee the Abbey is welcoming visitors for free on...
VIP Chinese delegation coming over from Shanghai to visit one of Somerset’s strongest international brands, ‘Clarks International’
In an effort to raise awareness of Somerset’s history the ‘Visit Somerset’ team are once again embarking on a large awareness campaign to talk up the great values and brands that Somerset has.
‘Visit Somerset’ have been...
Visit Somerset to support Combat through the Ages in bringing history to life
Combat Through the Ages was formed as part of the Jousting Association to offer a wider range of period based activities.
We have over forty years experience in presenting period themed entertainment and have performed throughout the world in front of...
Stunning blonde turns heads at the zoo
Visitors to Noah’s Ark Zoo Farm where witness to a rare sight recently, when a striking blonde figure was seen dashing through fields, causing great excitement.
The culprit: a feisty, shaggy blonde-haired Highland Cow, the newest arrival at Noah’s Ark who has...
HOT FUZZ DIRECTOR SPONSORS SWAN
Wells police were delighted to get their hands on a relative of the Hot Fuzz swan which continuously evaded capture in the famous film shot in the city a few years ago. This more passive creature has been sponsored by Hot Fuzz director Edgar Wright and Working Title Films as...
Butcombe Sponsorship updates
1. Butcombe at the Bath & West - the best of Somerset combine as Butcombe Brewery teams up with fellow Somerset drinks producer Thatchers Cider at this year's Bath & West show, taking place at the Shepton Mallet Showground Wed 30th May – Sat 2nd Jun.
We have an...
All Aboard the Hestercombe Express 2012
It’s nostalgic and it’s novel! Enjoy this exciting combination of old world travel taking you to one of tthe country’s best loved gardens – Hestercombe, near Taunton in Somerset!
Hop onto the romantic steam train from any station...
Glastonbury Abbey excavations reveal Saxon glass industry
New research led by the University of Reading has revealed that finds at Glastonbury Abbey provide the earliest archaeological evidence of glass-making in Britain.
Professor Roberta Gilchrist, from the Department of Archaeology, has re-examined the records of excavations that...
Norton St Philip First School launch their 4th Scarecrow Trail.
...
Ronnie and Roxie the East End Reindeer bring new life to the Ark
PRESS RELEASE
1 st May 2012
A beautiful white baby reindeer has been born at Noah’s Ark Zoo Farm in Wraxall with another on the way, as popular celebrity characters Ronnie and Roxie the reindeer celebrate motherhood together.
...
April 2012
'First Travel Solutions' intensifies the publicity behind the Somerset Explorer
'First Travel Solutions' and 'First Great Western' trains are taking the Somerset Explorer project development very seriously and have just launched their latest advert in the 'Group Travel Organiser'.
Further to this;
On the 11th May John Turner the...
STA MEMBER WINS CONTRACT TO SERVE AT THE OLYMPICS
A subsidiary of the Regency Purchasing Group has won a multi-million pound contract to supply food, drink and ice cream to visitors in the Olympic Village during the Olympic and Paralymic Games this summer.
Regency Event Solutions (RES), has won the contract to...
Major Chinese online tourism travel operator looking to develop Somerset tourism itineraries.
On Monday 30 th at 12:00 O’clock The ‘Somerset Tourism association’ and ‘First Travel solutions’ will be giving China’s second largest internet tour/travel operator www.lvmama.com and another English based Chinese operator, ‘China...
Bumper Lambing Year Doubles Visitor Numbers
Bumper Lambing Year Doubles Visitor Numbers
http://www.thisissomerset.co.uk/Bumper-Lambing-Year-Doubles-Visitor-Numbers/story-15896216-detail/story.html
As British conversation so frequently turns to the weather; media outlets in Bristol have embraced the references to Noah’s flood and invited light-hearted comment from staff at Noah’s Ark Zoo Farm.
40 days and 40 nights – widespread UK deluge reminds people of the tale of Noah’s flood
With much of the UK dealing with frequent downpours and blustery showers, humorous analogies have been drawn with the biblical story of Noah’s Ark and the Flood this month...
This month Hestercombe Gardens benefitted from its close partnership with the European Garden Heritage Network
EUROPEAN GARDEN UNION press release.
This month Hestercombe Gardens benefitted from its close partnership with the European Garden Heritage Network, an organisation working with over 150 parks and gardens in eight countries throughout Europe, including...
Company feed back from Visit Somerset's International conference
This years International conference on the 13th April went extremely well with highlights including Sir Grahame Watson MEP's Video introduction.
https://docs.google.com/file/d/0B0i1NPgH9hkqQXJCM2hHLW4xblk/edit
A video montage looking at the why UK tourism is so important...
Somersets Top 10 must do's!
Check out what John Turner the Vice Chairman of Visit Somerset thinks are the Top 10 things to do in Somerset.
http://www.thisissomerset.co.uk/s-picks-things-Somerset-spring/story-15839310-detail/story.html
King Arthur legends come to life as Visit Somerset starts talks with live action group 'Combat through the Ages'
Soon Visit Somerset will be talking with the live action group, 'Combat through the Ages'
Check out this link in the meantime as Visit Somerset wants to support groups in bringing history to life!
http://youtu.be/is14RImDmlY
Family Fun coming with Bath Rugby on April 21st at the Rec
Visit Somerset’s International conference in Dunster
Visit Somerset’s International conference in Dunster to have a touch of the Hollywood treatment.
Radio broadcast
http://www.bbc.co.uk/iplayer/console/p00qgp3h
1:00 :03 seconds in
Sir Graham Watson MEP speech for...
Titanic News comes to Somerset
Simon Fisher is a Maritime artist and has been publishing Maritime art since 1989 and will be at Clarks Village in the 'Studio Gallery'on Sunday 15 th April at 10am until 5pm.
Simon has had a long association with Titanic Survivors and had much of his...
Glastonbury Abbey was at the cutting edge of craft production.
GLASTONBURY Abbey was at the cutting edge of craft production, a new study of its archaeological excavation records has revealed.
The exciting Glastonbury Abbey Excavation Archive Project has used 21 st century techniques to further investigate the medieval crafts and...
March 2012
High Level meeting held bewteen Visit somerset and the South Wests MEP Sir Graham Watson
Meeting 16 th March 2012
Sir Grahame Watson MEP John Turner Vice Chairman...
New cute arrivals at Noahs Ark Zoo Farm
Madagascan primates give birth to beautiful baby in the sun as UK hots up.
A baby Madagascan ring-tailed lemur has been born at Noah’s Ark Zoo Farm in Wraxall this month as temperatures in Bristol soar and record visitor numbers hit the popular family attraction....
Ballet comes to Somerset
Our great friends at Ston Easton Park hotel just outside Bath are bringing some wonderful culture to Somerset this July.
Press Launch coming soon at the end of April.
Further Swans of Wells Sponsorship news
Latest Swan News!
...
The Swans of Wells latest news update
A SWAN FOR THE SWAN
The Swan Hotel Wells, a sponsor of the Swans of Wells 2012 public art event, has chosen Wellow-based artist Emma Rose to decorate their 5ft swan sculpture, aptly named Majesty.
Emma’s swan design takes its inspiration from the rich colours...
Visit Somerset link up with the Chartered institute of Marketing
Find out how Visit Somerset is now supporting the UK's professional marketing body the, 'Chartered Institute of Marketing' in the South West.
Click logo below.
Cheddar Gorge cable car plans include visitor and education centre
Find out about amazing new developments for one of Somersets Tourism high lights 'Cheddar Gorge' that could really bring much needed investment into the county of Somerset supporting the inevitable growth in county tourism.
Click the picture below
Mulberry founder to reveal secrets of life at bag maker
Read about the founder of 'Mulberry', one of the most famous brands to come out of Somerset since Cider, Cheddar and Clarks!
http://www.thisissomerset.co.uk/Mulberry-founder-reveal-secrets-life-bag-maker/story-15523174-detail/story.html
The latest 'Swans of Wells' photographs
Tesco joins the 'Swans of Wells' sponsorship list
The Tesco store in Wells has signed up as an event sponsor of the Swans of Wells 2012 contemporary public art project.
A fabulous flock of sixty, decorated 5ft swan sculptures will be displayed in public locations in and around Wells from June to September this year in a...
A great mothers day idea !
Noahs Ark Zoo Farm are helping families celebrate Mother's Day by allowing mothers to the Zoo farm for £5 on Saturday 17th March.
All the need to do is download the voucher from the Noahs Ark Website ('click the Noah's Ark logo above')...
Runner ducks enjoy a Spring in their step as bright weather sees new arrivals explore the farm
Runner ducks, piglets and lambs are amongst some of the new spring arrivals at Noah’s Ark Zoo Farm, Bristol, as the warmer weather brings new births and visitors enjoy seeing their farmyard favourites explore the bright surrounds.
Barley the old farm Labrador...
Glastonbury Abbey celebrates a great 2011
Glastonbury Abbey
www.glastonburyabbey.com
February 2012
PRESS RELEASE
Bumper year for visitors to Glastonbury...
Snow Dome in Weston Super mare has its own web page!
The first chapter as the 'Snow Dome' in Weston Super mare becomes a reality!
http://westonsnowdome.com/
First it was Woodstock now its Scrumpstock in Somerset
Scrumpstock is a festival being held on the bank holiday weekend of the 2nd and 3rd of June 2012 at Oaktree Farm Arena on the A38 near Highbridge, to celebrate many aspects of somerset culture. This includes the "scrumpy and western" music genre, which is acclaimed to have been statred...
Montacute House prepares for grand opening for 2012 season
Great news concerning another national treasure in the heart of Somerset.
http://www.thisissomerset.co.uk/Montacute-House-prepares-grand-opening-2012/story-15401125-detail/story.html
Major Easter Competition on the way in conjunction with Visit Somerset and Clarks Village!
Very shortly (and to tie in with the Easter holidays) a major tourism promotion is being launched by 'Clarks Village' Outlet shopping centre in Street. 'Visit Somerset' and 'Clarks Village' are going to be giving away, inconjunction with the promotion, 30...
Don't Forget T4 on the beach and more importantly where it is?!
'Weston Super Mare'
in 'Somerset'.
http://www.thisissomerset.co.uk/Rush-expected-T4-Beach-tickets-sale-Ticketmaster/story-15374312-detail/story.html
Why did Michael Eavis our patron rival Angelina Jolie at the Oscars
Congratulations must go to, Michael and Emily Eavis and the team at 'Glastonbury Festivals', at the NME awards, as 'Glastonbury Festivals' scooped the best 'Festival award'.
See though how Michael Eavis upstaged Angelina Jolie at the Oscars!
...
February 2012
The Somerset badger cull do you think it will effect tourism?
Bill Oddie has been protesting in London regarding the up and coming badger culls which will include the county of Somerset.
We are interseted to get your views on this subject, which we will then pass onto the authorities in representing the tourism business interests of the county....
Visit Somerset heads line up with online Tour operator publication
Visit Somerset is now working with Online Group tour search engine 'Groups and Schools.com' and is headlining the online brochure 2012.
Visit Somerset is working with its partner First travel Solutions with this venture to promote the Somerset Explorer.
It is due...
Somerset finds a Miss Universe UK Finalist
Somerset has its very own 'Miss Universe' UK Finalist.
Rachel Metcalffe of 'Butleigh Wootton' Nr Glastonbury, recently recieved her letter notifiying that she had got through to the finals of the prestigous ' UK finals of the 'Miss Universe...
The Somerset Tourism Association lands sponsorship deal with the first food operator in the county.
The Somerset Tourism Association lands sponsorship deal with the first food operator in the county.
The Somerset Tourism association, with its lead brand Visit Somerset, is delighted to welcome on board its first major food sponsor ‘Capricorn® Somerset Goat Cheese...
Vice Chairman update 21st February UKinbound and Visit Somerset alliance is formed
A really constructive meeting was had yesterday between Visit Somerset and UK inbound (the official representation for all inbound tourism in the UK)
UKinbound is a trade association which represents the interests of the UK's inbound tourism sector.
It now has...
More fascinating history soon to be brought to life in Somerset
Hestercombe House is about to give away its wonderful historic secrets. Read more as another part of Somerset unleashes its wonderful past to potential tourists visiting our great County.
http://www.thisissomerset.co...
Are there ghosts on Clevedon pier?
Check this latest spooky story out, are there really ghosts on the pier in Clevedon?
http://www.thisissomerset.co.uk/ghost-Clevedon-Pier-caught-camera-student/story-15245762-detail/story.html
Check out 'Noahs Ark Zoo farm' 2012 activities page
'Noah's Ark Zoo Farm'
...
Wedding of another famous TV face in Well'sSomerset
What a beautiful day for a (white) wedding! Kris Marshall ties the knot in romantic snow-filled ceremony
Couple looked unfazed by wintery conditions as they married in Wells at the Swan Hotel during the snow !
See the Full Story:
http://www.dailymail.co...
Latest News on the Swans of Wells PR Launch 13th February
First it was the 'Lions of Bath' and then the 'Pigs of Bath' and 'Gorilla's of Bristol'. Now the PR company behind these great attractions are launching a project in Wells called 'The Swans of Wells'.
Present this morning at the PR launch were...
The Bishop's Palace in Wells is re-opened !
The Bishop's Palace re-opened today! Café is buzzing and people are enjoying the gardens, with explorer backpacks and lovely new tickets with maps inside! Open until 4pm - see new website for more info http:// www.bishopspalace.org.uk/
Noahs Ark Zoo news
Piglet found on golf course given a home at Noah's Ark Zoo
http://bit.ly/xXr5qe
A giant flock of sixty, decorated swan sculptures will be displayed in public locations in and around Wells
http://www.wellspeople.co.uk/Wells-graced-foot-Swans/story-15215187-detail/story.html
A giant flock of sixty, decorated swan sculptures will be displayed in public locations in and around Wells from June to September this year in a free contemporary public art event to celebrate...
PET LOVERS THIS VALENTINE ‘S DAY – CELEBRATE IN STYLE AT STON EASTON PARK nr BATH
STON EASTON PARK HOTEL IN SOMERSET
FOR PET LOVERS THIS VALENTINE ‘S DAY – CELEBRATE IN STYLE AT STON EASTON PARK nr BATH
For lovers of good food and country house escapes STON EASTON PARK has teamed up...
New Chartered Institute of marketing Ambassador role for Visit Somerset Vice chair
John Turner the Vice Chairman of Visit Somerset is becoming the Chartered Institute of Marketing's ambassador for Tourism and Leisure in the South West
http://www.thisissomerset.co.uk/Chinese-tourism-drive-wins-ambassador-role/story-15307756-detail/story.html
Bob Smart...
Your personal invitation to the International conference
Your personal invitation to the International conference in Dunster on the 13th April 2012
Download invitation as PDF
Leading Law firm becomes first sponsor of Visit Somerset
The team at 'Visit Somerset' are delighted to announce the first major private sector sponsorship deal with Solicitors firm 'Clarke Wilmott LLP' in Taunton.
As a member of the STA you can now receive the following from 'Clarke Wilmott':
...
UK INBOUND CONFERENCE NEWS
John Turner - the Vice Chairman of the 'Somerset Tourism Association' - was present at the ‘UK Inbound’ conference last week, which was held at the 'Europa hotel' in Belfast. This is the same hotel where the ‘Good Friday agreement’ was created and where...
January 2012
Visit Somerset and First Great Western are to work jointly in driving Value added ‘staycation’ offers to Somerset with the Somerset Explorer.
On Tuesday last week final plans were put in place with the Somerset Tourism Association and its lead brand Visit Somerset. First Great Western and First Solutions are offering what is thought to be the first all-inclusive package deal, by train and coach in association with the county.
At...
John Turner the Vice chairman of the 'Somerset Tourism Association' and lead brand 'Visit Somerset' interviewed on BBC Somerset
John Turner the Vice chairman of the 'Somerset Tourism Association' and lead brand 'Visit Somerset' interviewed on BBC Somerset this morning 06/01/2012 in relation to the forthcoming movie 'Glastonbury Isle of Light'.
To listen to the interview please click...
Hollywood heads to Somerset for 'major motion picture' to be set in Glastonbury
http://www.thisissomerset.co.uk/Hollywood-heads-Somerset-major-motion-picture-set/story-14302950-detail/story.html
‘Somerset Tourism Association’ to officially support ‘Galatia Films’ in the development and production ‘Glastonbury Isle of Light’.
John Turner the Vice chairman of the 'Somerset Tourism Association' and lead brand 'Visit Somerset' has said;
“I think that the ‘Somerset Tourism Association', with its lead brand ‘Visit Somerset’, has a duty to make sure that it is looking for...
December 2011
Christmas in Somerset: Top ten things to do in Somerset this Christmas
If you want to explore a city, walk in the countryside or paddle in the sea, Somerset has got it all.
Plus it is home to the world famous natural wonders of Chedder Gorge and Wookey Hole and not forgetting the internationally acclaimed Glastonbury Festival.
The festival’s...
September 2011
Sporting chance for Somerset in Chinese tourism market
A delegation of Chinese tourism and leisure managers has completed another visit to Somerset aimed at establishing a new holiday market for the county.
The party of seven included senior executives from China Holidays, the Jinan National Fitness Centre and the city’s Municipal Sports...
August 2011
Familiarisation tour helps harness more tourism spend for Somerset
In a bid to harness more of the £16.7 billion spent by the millions of overseas visitors who come to the UK each year bringing even more of that spending power to the West Country, transport operator First, in partnership with the Somerset Tourism Association - one of the first private...
