New scheme aims to boost Cumbrian tourism spend (From The Westmorland Gazette)

New scheme aims to boost Cumbrian tourism spend

4:33pm Friday 29th January 2010 in

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A SCHEME is being launched to try to increase tourism spending in Cumbria.

The Freedom of the Lake District pass, created by Cumbrian firm Tyg, aims to make Cumbria more attractive to potential tourists by offering pre-paid discounts, suggested itineraries and other useful information to help them plan their visit.

Peter Frost-Pennington, a director of Tyg and whose family also own Muncaster Castle, says: “The Freedom of the Lake District pass will help to attract new visitors from both the UK and overseas to the businesses and organisations that are involved in the scheme.

“After a number of months developing the scheme we now want to hear from those attractions, activity providers, shops, restaurants, event organisers and others who would like to be included in the Pass.

“Many tourism attractions and activity providers already have various promotions ranging from ‘kids go free’ to ‘Buy one, get one free’ and the idea of the Pass is to provide an attractive offer to the customer whilst maximising the return to the participating businesses.”

The pass will be widely promoted through media in the UK and on a special Freedom of the Lake District website. Visit Britain will also be providing the information in 16 different languages and selling the passes to their agents and customers around the world.

Eric Robson, the Chairman of Cumbria Tourism, says: “This is an exciting new initiative that will enable businesses in Cumbria to benefit from a powerful marketing tool that has previously only been available in cities like London and York. Passes like these encourage people to visit more attractions and do more activities than they would otherwise and they can also benefit local retailers and accommodation providers.”

Business that would like to get involved in the Freedom of the Lake District scheme should call 01229 717614 or email steve@muncaster.co.uk or peter@muncaster.co.uk