The annual British Tourism Week begins today, with the aim of galvanising organisations and individuals into taking pride in being part of the UK’s tourism industry.

Valued at £114 billion, the tourism industry is the fifth biggest in the UK and will be celebrated with a series of inter-related events between March 15th and 21st. Supported by His Royal Highness the Prince of Wales, the event seeks to draw national awareness to the size, value and critical importance of the sector to the national economy.

This year domestic visitors are high on the agenda, with the event recognising that 80 per cent of our country’s tourism success comes from domestic visitors.

However, with increasing competition from overseas destinations, Brits must do more to encourage Britons to holiday at home, argue organisers.

Industry Insiders

Every day more visitors are enjoying the appeals of heritage sites and historic buildings, exploring stunning countryside and cinematic landscapes or taking a break in contemporary cities.

Becoming ever more familiar with world-renowned events from Wimbledon to Ascot, guests are also rediscovering the eccentricities – from worm-charming to sedan-racing, cheese-rolling and bog-snorkelling – and quintessentially British, cultural qualities that make the country unique.

As a result, the event seeks to ensure business owners and their employees - as well as politicians, the media and opinion-formers - are aware that many different, yet inter-dependent, sectors which contribute to the success of British tourism.

National Profile

By organising an event under the British Tourism Week banner, the industry is seeking to raise its profile in local areas, while contributing to a wider national profile.

Organisers want to encourage people to invest in the development of their staff and in raising standards of quality and welcome.

The Best of Britain & Ireland Travel Trade Forum and subsequent consumer show, will form the centerpiece of British Tourism Week.

Thee event will showcase excellence in destinations and experiences from around the country at London’s Olympia over the weekend of March 19th.

For more information on British Tourism Week take a look at the website.