Pubs urged to be unofficial tourist information centres

Pubs are being urged to become unofficial tourist information centres to take advantage of the expected boom in domestic tourism this summer.

Tourism body VisitEngland has launched a campaign, called Inn England, which calls on pubs to position themselves as the starting point for any visit to an area, rather than purely focusing on the needs of locals.

Amanda Smyth, head of marketing at VisitEngland, said: “Pubs are a key part of England's brand, our history and way of life.

“Inn England will remind people of the unique place that the English pub holds in our history and our communities. We hope this idea will galvanise pub landlords all over England to think outside the box about other ways that they can work with their local community to attract more business.”

VisitEngland, which launched on 1 April, has created a microsite targeting both pub operators and tourists. Pubs will be searchable by categories such as family-friendliness and historical interest. The site will also include an interactive forum where consumers can recommend their favourite pubs.

Earlier this month, VisitEngland launched a £3m television advertising campaign called ‘Enjoy Every Minute' to convince consumers they can enjoy English attractions no matter how little time they have available.

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By Daniel Thomas

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