In Introduction to the Tourism Geography of Britain

Learning Objectives 1. Appreciate that socio-economic, technological, and institutional factors present a powerful force in British society enabling the demand for tourism to be realised. 2. Be aware of changes in domestic tourism in Britain, and the factors that have brought about these changes. 3. Appreciate the volume and scope of both British residents' domestic tourism and tourism over- seas, and the factors that have brought this about. 4. Understand the recent influences upon the volume of inbound tourism to Britain and the nature of the overseas market. 5. Recognise the importance of physical geography in influencing the tourism resource base. 6. Demonstrate a knowledge of the key components of tourism supply in Britain. 7. Understand the way in which tourism is administered in Britain.

Introduction Britains distinctiveness: A strong maritime outlook with interests extending to all corners of the globe, while the naval heritage is an important part of Britains tourist appeal; and A cultural identity quite distinct from other west Europeans. The Narrow Seas are often stormy and in the past have acted as a barrier against invaders from the European mainland. The Scale of tourism: Overseas arrivals to the UK exceeded 24 million; The British took 58 million trips abroad; The British took 160 million domestic trips; and Tourism was estimated to support over 2 million jobs directly and indirectly, and contribute almost 4.5 per cent of gross domestic product (GDP).

The Physical Setting Physical Zones The Highlands The Uplands The Lowlands The Coasts Climate Latitudinal Extent Maritime Influences Temperature Sunshine

Changes in Society Social and Economic Income Car Ownership Holiday Time Education Baby Boomers Technology Products Media Internet/Computer Time Saving Devices

Demand for Tourism: Inbound A major destination –1960s –1970s –1980s –1990s The New Millennium Visitors –Focus on England and London –Seasonality Decreasing –Most Arrive by Air

Demand for Tourism: Domestic 1960s 1970s 1980s 1990s The New Millennium Visitors Shorter Length of Stay Lower Spend Long Holidays Decline England Dominates Growth of Business and Conference

Demand for Tourism: Outbound Major Generator of Outbound Tourism IT Pricing Growth of Budget Airlines Consumer Preference and Experience 1970s 1980s 1990s The New Millennium Visitors Air Travel Dominates Holiday Tourism Growing Long Haul Tourism Growing Future Linked to Economy/Consumer Trends and Market Maturity

Tourism Supply: Transport Air Sea The Channel Tunnel Surface Transport Road Rail

Tourism Supply: Attractions Heritage, Lottery and Millennium Funding Diverse Sector Attractions are: Existing Resources Augmented Resources Artificial Resources

Tourism Supply: Accommodation Focus in cities and the coast Small businesses Outdated infrastructure The rise of all-weather complexes Dispersal along transport routes Trend to high quality rural units

Tourism Supply: Organisation National level 1969 Development of Tourism Act VisitBritain Failte VisitScotland VisitWales Regional and Local Level