The British Tourism & Travel Show is set to return to the NEC Birmingham on 19-20 March 2025, establishing itself as an essential platform for coach operators, tour planners, and group travel organisers seeking to craft unforgettable travel experiences across the UK and Ireland. Over two days, attendees will experience the best that the UK and Ireland have to offer, with over 200 exhibitors showcasing a diverse range of attractions, destinations, hotels, venues, and travel services. Attendees will have the opportunity to meet face-to-face with representatives, discuss itineraries, gather inspiration, forge valuable connections, and bring their travel plans to life.

A Diverse landscape of exhibitors

The 2025 lineup boasts an exciting mix of returning favourites and new participants. Attendees will discover attractions like Brooklands Museum, Gretna Green, and Hemswell Antiques Centre, offering historical and cultural experiences. Nature enthusiasts can explore destinations such as West Midlands Safari & Leisure Park and the renowned Eden Project. Scenic railway journeys are well represented with Avon Valley Railway, Didcot Railway, East Lancashire Railway and Gloucestershire Warwickshire Steam Railway, while those seeking maritime adventures can connect with City Cruises, Coastal Cruises Poole, Dolphin Cruises, Harwich Harbour Ferry Services and Ambassador Cruise Line.

Regional tourism bodies will also play a significant role, with representatives from Lincolnshire, Northamptonshire, Dorset, Lancaster, Liverpool, Tewkesbury, Pembrokeshire, Somerset and Yorkshire showcasing the unique character of their areas. The Great West Way touring route adds another layer of exploration for group travel planners.

For those looking for group-friendly hospitality options, Classic British Hotels & Resorts, Hilton East Midlands Airport, Grant Arms Hotel, and Surya Hotels are among many group-friendly accommodation providers featured at the show.

Keynote programme takes centre stage

A major highlight of the two-day show is its free to attend seminar programme. The Keynote Theatre will feature experts offering valuable insights for tour operators and group travel organisers. Industry leaders will delve into the latest trends, itinerary inspiration, and insights across sustainability, accessibility, marketing, AI, and best practice in group travel.

Keynote Highlights: Wednesday 19 March

The programme begins with Phil Smith from the Confederation of Passenger Transport UK discussing "Coach Friendly Planning," He will explore how the industry can work together to improve access and create smoother experiences for group organisers and their customers. Following this, legal expert Matt Gatenby will navigate the complex landscape of compliance for group travel organisers and tour operators. Catherine Warrilow will then delve into the psychology of marketing with her "Trigger Thinking" presentation. AI expert, Manu Kastia from Digital Dialog, will explore practical AI applications promising actionable insights about how to leverage technology to enhance business efficiency. Then, attendees can hear about Jane Austen's 250th birthday celebrations, offering unique itinerary ideas centred around the beloved author. The final session of the day features an accessibility panel, with experts, Cheryl Everitt (A Wheel and Away), Hester Grainger (Perfectly Autistic), Ray Veal (Tourism for All) and James Dixon-Box (Marsham Court Hotel). They will provide insights into designing inclusive travel experiences for those with disabilities.

Keynote Highlights: Thursday 20 March

Day two begins with Joss Croft, CEO of UKinbound, presenting a comprehensive overview of inbound tourism. His session will delve into the latest visitor trends and market insights, highlighting the substantial economic potential of international tourism. This will be followed by a session hosted by AGTO. The final session, organised by the Coach Tourism Association, will focus on attracting new customers to coach holidays. Industry experts Graham Hopcraft (DFDS), Jason Edwards (Jason Edwards Travel), and Louise Fitzpatrick (Albatross Travel) will give candid insights into the current state of coach tourism. The panel will also share successful strategies, discuss challenges, and offer practical advice on appealing to travellers of all ages in an increasingly competitive market.

Beyond the exhibits

The British Tourism & Travel Show is a comprehensive marketplace of ideas and inspiration. Attendees will have the opportunity to meet face-to-face with destination representatives, discuss potential itineraries, and forge valuable partnerships. With a diverse exhibitor line up, insightful seminars, and collaborative atmosphere, the show is set to be a key platform for group travel opportunities in 2025 and beyond

For more information and to register for free, visit www.tourismshow.co.uk