New York, New York (November 16th, 2018) – The UK could expect a rise in visitors from the United States (US) during Thanksgiving week, with flight bookings showing a rise of 20% compared to the same period in 2017. 

Data from ForwardKeys shows flight bookings from the US to the UK are up 20% from Sunday November 18th to Saturday November 24th for 2018 compared to the week when Thanksgiving fell last year. Thanksgiving Day this year is on Thursday, November 22nd.

The increase echoes a longer-term trend with forward bookings from the US to the UK tracking up 27% from November 2018 to April 2019 compared to the same period previously. 

The US is the UK’s most valuable inbound visitor market for tourism spend. Visitors from the US spent a record £3.6 billion (around $4.7 billion USD) across the UK last year, up 9% on the previous year. Visits from the US grew 13% to 3.9 million in 2017, the highest since 2000.

VisitBritain Executive Vice President, Americas, Gavin Landry said:
“There has never been a better time to book a trip to Britain, with our attractions and accommodation offering great value. US visitors can enjoy classic Thanksgiving traditions, from eating a Thanksgiving feast to watching the NFL games, ice skating and holiday light festivals and displays.

“Working with partners including American Airlines, British Airways, Norwegian Air and Virgin Atlantic, we continue to boost route connectivity and seat capacity, making it easier for US visitors to travel and explore further through regional gateways such as Manchester, driving growth from tourism across our nations and regions. The UK is the number one destination in Europe for US travelers, and it is great to see forward bookings looking strong in the coming weeks and months from our most valuable visitor market.”

VisitBritain is also working with content partners in the US including Refinery29, Matador Network, Food52 and Men in Blazers to promote Britain’s food and drink, culture and countryside and Premier League-related visitor experiences, telling the stories of destinations inspiring visitors to discover more, travel further and stay longer.

VisitBritain’s global campaign “I Travel For…” launched earlier this year in the US and is also shining the spotlight on unexpected experiences and less explored destinations across the UK alongside its globally renowned and iconic landmarks and attractions to drive tourism across the nations and regions.                                                                                                                               

US perceptions of the UK as a visitor destination are strong. The US ranked the UK second overall out of 50 nations for its overall brand in the 2018 Anholt Nation Brands Index, up one place on 2017 and equalling its highest ranking ever. The US also rated the UK highly for its vibrant cities and urban attractions and historic buildings and monuments.

Tourism is worth £127 billion to the UK economy, creating jobs and boosting economic growth across its nations and regions.

To view a variety of Thanksgiving-inspired experiences taking place in Britain this month, please refer to the Appendix below.

ENDS

VisitBritain Media Contact
Diana Gonzalez
Marketing & Communications Manager
diana.gonzalez@visitbritain.org
+1 212-850-0318

About VisitBritain

VisitBritain, the national tourism agency, is responsible for inspiring the world to explore Britain and for developing its visitor economy.

Visitors from the US made 3.9 million visits to the UK in 2017 – up 13% compared to the previous year. This represents the highest visitor numbers since 2000. The US is the UK’s most valuable inbound tourism market and is one of the most important markets in terms of visitor numbers. In 2017, Americans spent £3.6 billion (around $4.7 billion USD) across the UK– the highest amount since records began and up 9% on 2016.

Visitors traveling to Britain can find out more information from www.visitbritain.com and also purchase money- and time-saving local transport, sightseeing, attraction, and theatre tickets from www.visitbritainshop.com.

Follow VisitBritain on YouTube (LoveGREATBritain), Twitter (@VisitBritain), Pinterest (Love GREAT Britain), Instagram (lovegreatbritain) and Facebook (LoveGREATbritain).

For hi-res images, register at www.visitbritainimages.com.

APPENDIX

Celebrating Thanksgiving Day:

Thanksgiving Meals & Drinks In London

Balthazar’s famous pecan pie returns for another year. Visitors can pick one up from their boulangerie or sit down to the classic Thanksgiving menu with gingerbread fizz, roasted butternut squash soup, and roast turkey with all the trimmings.
https://balthazarlondon.com/thanksgiving-at-balthazar/

Neptune’s Thanksgiving menu includes clam and smoked bacon chowder, turkey with chestnut and sausage stuffing, creamed kale, corn and cheddar biscuits and pumpkin custard tart.
https://neptune.london/index.php/2018/11/01/thanksgiving/

Ace Hotel have teamed up with The POP to host Breaking Bread: A Modern Thanksgiving Event, starting with pumpkin martinis on the 7th floor rooftop, followed by freshly baked cornbread, corn on the cob, roast turkey and pie.
https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/breaking-bread-a-modern-thanksgiving-tick...

Enjoy complimentary drinks for two hours amidst breathtaking views and a DJ playing until close at London’s highest bar, The View from The Shard. Their "Drinks on us" party nights take place every Thursday and Friday from November 22nd through December 13th, 2018, from 6:00 pm. – 8:00 pm.
https://www.theviewfromtheshard.com/whats-on/the-drinks-are-on-us/

Vegetarians can enjoy a plant-based meal at Farmacy’s first ever supper club, including three courses and a cocktail – expect seasonal mezze with chestnut hummus, Farmacy’s classic winter bowl with braised red cabbage, whipped squash and celeriac remoulade, and a twist on the classic American pie.
https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/farmacy-thanksgiving-supper-club-tickets-...

St Pauls Cathedral, London

Thursday, November 22nd, 2018

The annual Thanksgiving Day service will take place at St Pauls from 11am until 12pm. No tickets are needed to attend the traditional service but visitors are recommended to arrive early as doors close at 10.30am.

www.stpauls.co.uk

Winter Wonderland, Hyde Park, London

November 22nd, 2018 – January 6th, 2019

Winter Wonderland opens for the Christmas season this year on Thanksgiving Day from 4pm. The annual attraction is free-to-enter and features a family-fun activities including ice-skating on the UK’s largest outdoor rink, fairground attractions, Christmas markets and plenty of cosy restaurants to indulge in hot drinks and festive treats.

www.hydeparkwinterwonderland.com

Illuminate Light Festival, Plymouth

November 22nd – November 25th, 2018

Celebrate Thanksgiving Day at the city’s free-to-enter light festival, held at the historic Royal William Yard. The festival sees visual light projections take place with a theme of linking music to light, and visitors can get involved with their own light projects in a series of interactive workshops taking place during the four days. This year also sees artists experiment with light projections onto the sea.

www.visitplymouth.co.uk

Christmas at Kew Gardens, Richmond, London

November 22nd, 2018 – January 5th, 2019

Now in its sixth year, Christmas at Kew returns on Thanksgiving Day with a winter trail of twinkling lights to explore. Visitors can also enjoy the sculptural fire garden and a new Laser Garden to watch lights bouncing across the branches. End the evening with warm treats of roasted chestnuts and a hot chocolate under the starry skies.

www.kew.org

Ice Skating at the Natural History Museum, London

Through January 20th, 2019

To celebrate Thanksgiving Day with history, visitors can head to the Natural History Museum and skate against the backdrop of the grand attraction either day or night. Although it is recommended to book tickets to guarantee a place, visitors can buy a ticket at the box office, and warm up with a meal and drink at the Café Bar. www.nhm.ac.uk

Millions more people will be able to use ePassport gates as they arrive in the U.K., under plans announced on October 29.

From summer 2019, eligible travelers from Australia, Canada, Japan, New Zealand and the United States will be able to use the ePassport gates at 14 ports in the U.K. and at juxtaposed locations. 

The ePassport gates expansion will provide an automated route through the border for an estimated additional 6 million international travelers arriving in the U.K. every year.  The move is the next step in the Government’s continuing program of work to roll out digital technology at the border and is expected to significantly improve the flow of passengers at busy airports such as Heathrow.

ePassport gates, which are currently available for British and EU nationals, provide a faster route through the border as they allow eligible passengers to be processed quickly and securely. All passengers are automatically checked against Border Force systems and watchlists. The technology also allows Border Force officers to focus on other priority work such as identifying potential victims of trafficking.

Immigration Minister Caroline Nokes said:

“We want to encourage people who boost our economy through tourism and business to travel to the U.K., while at the same time maintaining border security. Expanding the number of nationalities eligible to use ePassport gates supports this aim.

“Increasing the use of digital technology is part of our ambitious program to improve the passenger experience and meet the challenge of increased passenger numbers.”

ePassport gates use facial recognition technology to compare the passenger’s face to the digital image recorded in their passport. The system is monitored by Border Force officers and anyone rejected by the gates will be sent to an alternative channel to have their passport checked.

There are now 259 ePassport gates in operation at 14 ports around the U.K. and juxtaposed control locations. The gates can be used by those aged 18 and over, and who are traveling using a biometric or ‘chipped’ passport. Those aged 12 to 17 years old, and who are accompanied by an adult, are also able to use them.   

Notes to editors:

1. ePassport gates operate in 14 ports across the U.K. and at juxtaposed control locations which include:
   • Airports (Heathrow, Gatwick, Manchester, Stansted, East Midlands, Edinburgh, Glasgow, Newcastle, Birmingham, Bristol, Luton and London City. Cardiff airport will benefit from an installation of ePassport gates in early 2019.
   • Rail terminals (Eurostar terminals at Brussels and Paris, known as the juxtaposed controls).
2. ePassport gates first went live in U.K. airports at Manchester Airport in 2008. In the year ending September 2018, 51.9 million passengers used them across the U.K.
3. From Summer 2019, both visitors and those coming to the U.K. with a visa to study or work from eligible countries will be able to use the ePassport gates.
4. Travelers who aren’t eligible to use ePassport gates (including family travelers with children under 12 years of age, people traveling with ID cards or without a biometric passport) will continue to be seen by an officer at the PCP (passport control desk).

A brand new Robin Hood itinerary and two bookable Robin Hood products have been launched by Visit Nottinghamshire to coincide with the release of Otto Bathurst’s Robin Hood on the November 21.

These itineraries will be promoted around the world through the international travel trade, encouraging international tourists to visit Nottinghamshire and immerse themselves in the rich history, legends and literature of the region, taking advantage of the increased interest generated by the latest film.

The itinerary is one of a number of developed across England as part of the ‘Creating England’s Literary Greats’ project, one of several successful bids to secure funding from the UK Government’s £40 million Discover England Fund. The Fund is administered by VisitEngland and involves a program of activity to ensure that England stays competitive in the rapidly growing tourism industry, by offering world–class English tourism products to the right customer at the right time.  The Fund is a central government funded program of activity supported by match funding by partners in the public and private sectors.

The project is based on research which identified a demand for increased literary-themed visits to England, focusing on the US travel trade.

Brendan Moffett, Chief Executive at Visit Nottinghamshire, said, “We’re launching these new products at a time of increased interest in Nottingham thanks to the release of the latest Robin Hood film. They are specifically designed to appeal to international visitors with an interest in experiencing the legend for themselves, and we anticipate that they will provide a major boost to our thriving tourism economy.”

The two-day Robin Hood itinerary includes the multi-award-winning Robin Hood Town Tour with the character tour guide Ezekial Bone, Nottingham Castle (set to be an even bigger tourist attraction when it reopens in 2020 following a fantastic £29.8m Heritage Lottery Funded transformation), Sherwood Forest and the Major Oak and Newstead Abbey, the ancestral home of Lord Byron.

The two new bookable products will see tourists exploring culturally and historically significant sites in Nottinghamshire with Ezekial Bone and Cultural Heritage Tours for an immersive and hands-on experience. For the first time ever, The Legend of Robin Hood and Sherwood Forest offers a joined-up tour of both Nottingham city centre with Robin Hood and a visit to the historic landscapes of Sherwood Forest, whilst the Robin Hood Town Tour and Lunch will have tourists exploring the historic city centre followed by a meal in England’s oldest pub.

Ezekial Bone said, “These new products break down the glass wall between the city and the county, providing a fully comprehensive Nottinghamshire experience. All the main sites of interest linked with the Robin Hood legend will be brought together into a package for those with a thirst for adventure, knowledge and good times. With masterful storytelling, Robin Hood will bring the legend and the history of the City of Nottingham to life.”

Karl Gibson, the landlord of Ye Olde Trip to Jerusalem, said, “It creates a real sense of community that we as a city can collaborate together to develop these great experiences. The Literary Greats project provides a fantastic gateway to help visitors learn and discover the great significance and the impact that Nottinghamshire has had on the country and further afield.”

The bookable products can be bought independently or incorporated into wider itineraries and tours, and can be purchased ‘off the shelf’ or tailored as required. The itineraries also recommend accommodation, with a focus on trade or group-friendly properties and those that relate to the theme or are quintessentially English. Also included are suggested complimentary experiences including food experiences, landscapes famous for film locations or other local sites of interest.

Research has revealed an increasing recognition of the importance of culture and heritage for tourist motivation, behaviour and experiences, with more than a third of overseas visitors looking to see places from film and literature, and almost half of them having visited museums, art galleries, castles or historic houses on previous trips. Cultural tourists are thought to spend more, stay longer, travel more frequently, and participate in more activities than other tourists.

These itineraries and activities have therefore been designed in line with these market trends and in response to consumer demands, using the legend and character of Robin Hood as a hook. They are expected to benefit Nottinghamshire’s tourism economy – attracting more international visitors and strengthening the region’s cultural identity.

Andy Mercian, from Cultural Heritage Ltd, said: “This tour package offers people the chance to meet Robin Hood himself, and expert historians, and to uncover the real story behind the legends. It’s a chance to soak up the culture of the vibrant city of Nottingham, before wandering through the ancient oak trees of the Forest, helping to link the county and city together for the greater good.”

Ends

Notes to Editors:

Details of the Robin Hood itinerary and new bookable products can be found on https://www.visit-nottinghamshire.co.uk/.

About Marketing NG: Marketing NG is the official Place Marketing Organisation (PMO) for Nottingham and Nottinghamshire. The organisation is responsible for growing the local economy through encouraging inward investment, attracting business and leisure visitors, student retention and aligning with the local business community. It is made up of three divisions: Visit Nottinghamshire, Invest in Nottingham and Nottingham Partners.

About the Discover England Fund

In November 2015, the Government announced a £40 million Discover England Fund; an unprecedented opportunity for English tourism. The Fund aims to deliver world-class bookable tourism products joined up across geographies and/or themes; including integrated transport solutions to provide an end-to-end customer experience.

The Fund supports the growth of one of England’s most successful export industries, inbound tourism. Tourism is an industry that delivers jobs and economic growth across the English regions – contributing some £106bn each year to the economy and supporting 2.6 million jobs.

The Fund supported a number of pilot projects in year one (2016/17) that tested product development approaches.  In years two and three, 2017-19, the fund will support:

A number of large-scale collaborative projects to be delivered over the two year period 2017-2019 that will create a step-change in bookable English tourism product for international consumers,

A smaller funding pot for new one year pilot projects (in year two), and

Continuation funding for existing year one projects that demonstrated early learnings (in year two).

About VisitEngland:

VisitEngland is the national tourism agency – a non-departmental public body funded by the Department for Digital, Culture, Media & Sport (DCMS).

Working with a wide range of partners in both the UK and overseas, our mission is to grow the volume and value of inbound tourism across the nations and regions of Britain and to develop world-class English tourism product to support our growth aspirations. For further information and to access the latest in-depth market intelligence and statistics visit www.visitbritain.org or www.visitbritain.com and www.visitengland.com for consumer information.

Coincide your visit to Britain during one of the major sales seasons and you could make huge savings on shopping during your trip. Post-Christmas is a brilliant seasonal sale period as shops offer great discounts and incentives, usually from Boxing Day (26 December) onwards. You’ll find them everywhere, from major department stores and high-street shops, independent boutiques and outlet centres.

CITY SHOPPING

London

England’s capital is, without doubt, one of the best places in the world to shop! Legendary shopping haunts such as Oxford Street, Bond Street, Regent Street, Westfield in Stratford, east London and Westfield in Shepherd’s Bush, west London, Covent Garden and Knightsbridge, plus pretty much every other street in the capital, are teeming with shops that offer post-Christmas sales. If you’re searching for great prices at high-end stores, why not start at the ‘grande dame’ of them all, Harrods in Knightsbridge. Its Winter Sale is a real show-stopper of an event, opening with great fanfare on Boxing Day – in previous years, the Boxing Day sale event has featured live reindeers and a performance by Florence + The Machine. Also head to Selfridges on Oxford Street where, across six floors, you’ll discover fantastic sales on designer wear (its sale also kicks off on Boxing Day), while over in Knightsbridge, Harvey Nichols is a must-visit for luxury brands at sale price. Homewares, fashion and beauty bargains can be found at the elegant designer department store Liberty on Regent Street and, if it’s a good deal on foodie treats you’re looking for, head to Fortnum & Mason on Piccadilly, where sales tend to start on 27 December. 

Birmingham, central England

Jump on a train from London and 90 minutes later you’ll find yourself in another shopper’s paradise. The city of Birmingham has a wonderful mix of shopping experiences, from luxury department stores and independent boutiques to historic markets and high-street favourites. Check out the post-Christmas sales at its branches of Harvey Nichols, found at the Mailbox shopping venue, which is also home to brands such as Armani and Calvin Klein. The Birmingham branch of Selfridges is located in one of the city’s most distinctive buildings and is part of The Bullring & Grand Central shopping destination, which also boasts upscale brands such as Michael Kors and the British institution that is department store John Lewis, which kicks off its famous sale on 27 December. Close by is Birmingham’s New Street, which has a myriad of narrow streets leading off it where you’ll find sales events at the independent boutiques and high-street favourites that have their home here. And don’t forget to explore the city’s renowned Jewellery Quarter, packed with historic buildings and jewellery boutiques to hunt for that gem of a post-Christmas bargain.

Manchester, north-west England

Whatever style you’re into, you’ll find it in Manchester’s shops – and at great prices too during sales season. Like London and Birmingham, Manchester has branches of luxury department stores Selfridges and Harvey Nichols, each home to a raft of designer concessions. If you’re looking for high-street bargains all under one roof, check out the city’s fantastic shopping centres; the intu Trafford Centre (where Selfridges is located) is home to Zara, Victoria’s Secret, John Lewis and that British favourite, Primark. For shopping in a historic destination, visit The Royal Exchange – once the hub of the world’s cotton trade and a Grade II-listed building – where premium high-street brands (think French Connection and Molton Brown) sit alongside independent boutiques and luxury retailers. The venue is also close to Manchester Arndale, where bargains can be found at leading British high-street fashion stores such as TopShop, River Island and Next. It’s also worth exploring Manchester’s creative, bohemian hub, the Northern Quarter, for vintage boutiques and independent record stores and head to Afflecks, where bargains can be picked up at independent designers trading across four floors – it’s a labyrinth of treasures.

Glasgow, Scotland

Home to one of the UK’s largest retail hubs outside of London, Glasgow is a shopaholic’s dream destination. Its world-famous Style Mile in the city centre means an easy route around all your favourite shops – good news, as hunting for bargains can be tiring work! The ‘Style Mile’ is home to well-loved British high-street stores, as well as luxury retailers, but it’s also the place to go to explore the city’s shopping centres and department stores. More than 80 retailers have made their home at the Buchanan Galleries, including a branch of John Lewis, the classically British Jones the Bootmaker, and beauty shops such as Bare Minerals. The West End of the city is the place to shop if you’re looking for sales bargains in more avant-garde and independent boutiques.

Cardiff, Wales

Cardiff’s main shopping area in the city centre is mainly pedestrianised, meaning the hunt for post-Christmas bargains is all concentrated in an easy-to-navigate district. The Welsh capital is well-known for its Victorian arcades and no less than six have been transformed into shopping venues. The Castle Quarter alone comprises three; Castle Arcade, High Street Arcade and Duke Street Arcade, and it’s here you’ll find a raft of vintage shops, clothes stores and jewellery shops worth exploring during the post-Christmas sales. Contemporary British brands, such as Marks & Spencer and John Lewis, have made their home at the St David’s Centre and there are high-street names galore throughout the city centre.

OUTLETS

Grab even bigger bargains at Britain's outlet stores – they offer deals all year round, but you can discover even bigger discounts during the main sale periods as items are marked down further.

Bicester Village, Oxfordshire, central England

Only one hour from London, Bicester Village is one of Britain’s best-known luxury outlet destinations and bargain hunters can explore more than 160 famous brand-name boutiques, including Oscar de la Renta, Hugo Boss, Tods and Mulberry. Year-round they offer savings of up to 60% and may often discount further during the post-Christmas sales period. New designer boutiques recently opened at the Village include Roland Mouret, MonnaLisa and Amanda Wakeley, with British brand Shrimps opening soon. Bicester Village now also offers an exclusive by-appointment-only space where guests can retreat for private shopping consultations and, to complete the VIP shopping experience, can take advantage of valet parking, hands-free shopping and on-site tax refunds and money services.

McArthur Glen

McArthurGlen has designer outlets in six locations across Britain, including York (a two-hour train ride from London) and Cheshire, a 45-minute train journey from Liverpool. Cheshire Oaks is Britain’s largest designer outlet, with more than 145 boutiques, restaurants and cafés, and shoppers can find bargains from popular high-street names such as Marks & Spencer and Next, and high-end brands such as Burberry and Michael Kors. McArthur Glen’s other destinations include Ashford in Kent (40 minutes from London), Bridgend in south Wales (around 30 minutes from Cardiff), East Midlands (around 25 minutes from Nottingham) and Swindon (around 45 minutes from Bath). A new outlet is due to open in 2020 in Cannock in the West Midlands (30 minutes from Birmingham).

London Designer Outlet

Close to the world-famous Wembley Stadium in north London is the London Designer Outlet, where visitors will discover more than 50 outlet stores offering regular and seasonal discounts of up to 70% on top fashion and lifestyle brands – it’s ideal for post-Christmas sales! If you’re into sportswear, this is where you’ll find top sporting brands such as Nike and adidas, while if you’re searching for stylish homewares, check out lifestyle stores that include Villeroy & Boch, Sony and Procook. The outlet also offers services such as multi-lingual staff and overseas shoppers can claim an immediate VAT refund at the outlet’s currency exchange service.

ICON Outlet at the O2

New to the outlet scene – it opened in late October – the ICON Outlet at the iconic O2 arena in Greenwich, south-east London, has brought together a huge range of fashion and lifestyle brands at accessible prices all under the famous tented roof. Retailers that have opened in Phase 1 include Kurt Geiger, Aspinal of London, Jack Wills, Cath Kidston, Hackett, Guess, G-STAR Raw and Ted Baker, with many more due to open in the next phase. Customers can take advantage of services such as a concierge luggage drop and hands-free shopping. 

From its origins in 1994, World Vegan Day on 1 November is now a worldwide day of awareness celebrating all things plant-based, with Britain now ranking as one of the most vegan-friendly destinations in Europe.

For vegans travelling to the UK, there’s an ever-growing number of vegan eateries and accommodation on offer - from high-end ethical suites to healthy cuisine and jaw-dropping junk food.

Vegan places to eat

London

Mildreds, Soho

One of the best-loved vegan-friendly spots in London is Mildreds. Originally established in Soho in 1988, the restaurant now boasts branches in Camden, King’s Cross and Dalston. Airy, bright and stylish, the chain is known for its delicious warming winter dishes like smoked tofu, apple and white bean sausages and mash, and toffee apple crumble. Diners can also savour vegan cocktails including a gin-soaked cucumber smash, watermelon cooler and vegan beer.

Manna, Primrose Hill

Located in leafy north-west London, Manna is one of the capital’s most popular vegan restaurants. With a menu displaying influences as far flung as India, Mexico and Japan, this elegant restaurant prides itself on using sustainable produce throughout the year. Diners can choose from seasonal specials including roasted root vegetable masala or buffalo cauliflower tostada, enjoy protein-rich Sunday roasts or splash out and savour the chef’s special five-course custom menu.

Wulf & Lamb, Sloane Square

“Run with the wolves, eat with the lambs” is the mantra of Wulf & Lamb. Its 100% plant-based menu focuses heavily on comfort food, so expect fabulously filling dishes, including an open burrito with sautéed ackee, green coconut curry and the seitan Wulf Burger. Sweet-toothed diners can also choose from deliciously decadent desserts including Eton Mess or dairy-free mango and passionfruit cheesecake. 

The Gate

Celebrating 30 years of planet-based cuisine, The Gate serves up-market vegan and vegetarian food across four locations within the capital. In addition to the exciting a la carte menu which includes indulgent dishes such as aubergine teriyaki and wild mushroom risotto cake, The Gate also hosts monthly ‘secret vegan supper clubs’, offering a five-course tasting menu with paired wines. The two supper clubs closest to World Vegan Day are on 20 October and 17 November 2019, check the website for events thereafter.

We are Vegan Everything

Lovers of the plant-based lifestyle can relax in the bohemian Bali-inspired space of We Are Vegan Everything (WAVE) in the heart of Hackney. Expect soya ‘freakshakes’, juice shots, superfood lattes and vegan cakes, as well as brownies and croissants. For savoury vegan treats there is a ‘small’ menu, featuring a classic toastie, mushroom sausage roll and vegan salmon and cream cheese.

Manchester

The Allotment, Lloyd Street

Named best vegetarian restaurant of 2018 by The Times, award-winning restaurant The Allotment offers three, seven and ten-course tasting menus in the heart of Manchester. All its dishes are also 100% gluten, dairy and egg free, making it perfect for coeliacs in addition to those following a plant-based diet. During the holiday season, visitors can tuck into its Christmas menu featuring festive delights including cranberry and red wine parfait and pan fried cauliflower roast with all the trimmings.

V-Rev Vegan Diner, Edge Street

A mecca for vegan junk food lovers, V-Rev offers gloriously greasy delights at a price that won’t break the budget. From loaded southwest fries with smashed avocado and southwest chipotle mayo to buffalo mac and cheez made with homemade cheez sauce, beacon and buffalo sauce, this is the perfect venue for post-party pick me ups and cheat days. Can’t decide between savoury and sweet? Look out for Donut Stop Me Now – a mouth-watering medley of buttermilk fried seitan chckn, cheez, baecon, maple syrup and crispy fried onions between two fried donuts, for a decadent burger experience with a difference.

Greens, Didsbury

Set up by Simon Connolly and Simon Rimmer, now one of the UK’s top TV chefs, Greens has been ‘terrifying carnivores’ since 1990 with its inspiring menu of delicious plant-based dishes. Influenced by cuisines from around the world, the menu features dishes including soba noodle salad, sweet potato katsu curry and handmade gnocchi. Greens also offer a three-course Sunday roast set menu for £17, which includes a soup starter, roast and dessert.

Edinburgh

Holy Cow, Elder Street

Located in Edinburgh’s New Town, quirky independent café Holy Cow prides itself on using organic local produce to create its 100% vegan menu. Dishes change according to the season and you can expect tasty treats including spicy butternut squash soup, in addition to staples such as vegan burgers, open sandwiches and seasonal salads. Much loved for its cakes, the café has an ever-changing selection of sweet delights including chocolate and peanut butter cake, pumpkin pie and spiced pear and walnut cake.

The Ivy on the Square, St Andrew Square

The Ivy on the Square has swiftly become a staple on the Edinburgh dining scene. Its specially designed vegetarian menu features vegan-friendly options, while non-vegans can also choose from the à la carte menu. With delicious dishes including sweet potato Keralan curry, warm Asian salad and roasted butternut squash with grains, this chic and stylish restaurant is the ideal spot for vegan and vegetarian celebrations while in the Scottish capital.

The Auld Hoose, St Leonard’s Street

Home to some of the best rock, metal and punk music in Edinburgh via their legendary jukebox, The Auld Hoose is also one of the city’s best venues for vegans in search of a little comfort food. From huge plates of nachos dripping in vegan cheese to crunchy onions rings, vegan falafel burgers and even a vegan sorbet sundae, this is a must visit for meat-free visitors and music lovers alike.

Brighton

Purezza, St James’s Street

The UK’s first vegan pizzeria, Purezza take animal-friendly Italian cuisine seriously. Having spent two years developing their dairy-free mozzarella (made from brown rice), the restaurant uses innovative recipes and ingredients to create delectable vegan pizzas, pastas and desserts – from meltingly moreish macaroni to cheesesteak calzone and vegan oreo pizza. With a second branch in London and many gluten-free options available, it’s the perfect pit-stop for vegans looking for a taste of Italy in the UK.

Food for Friends, Prince Albert Street

Established in 1981, the award-winning Food for Friends is one of Brighton’s longest-running vegetarian and vegan restaurants and a favourite with locals and visitors alike. Boasting a seasonal menu made with local and organic produce, diners can enjoy Middle Eastern, Japanese and British-inspired vegan dishes including courgette kofta and Inari tofu wraps in addition to a selection of mouth-watering desserts and vegan cocktails.

Terre à Terre, East Street

A haven of vegan indulgence, Terra à Terra prides itself on its marvellous meat-free creations made with ethically sourced ingredients. Playfully named dishes range from KFC, Korean fried cauliflower with sweet and sour sesame, to Snap, Crackle and Choc, a rich chocolate mousse with praline and chocolate shortbread. With a range of organic vegan wines, beers and ciders on offer as well as cocktails and non-alcoholic options, this is the perfect spot for special vegan suppers by the sea.

Vegan places to stay

2019 saw the opening of the world’s first vegan suite at the Hilton Bankside in London. Created in collaboration with the Vegan Society, this luxury hotel now offers five-star vegan accommodation in the capital. From ethical bedding to the faux leather seating, even the cleaning products used are cruelty-free and eco-friendly. The in-room menu and minibar offer a range of vegan options, such as avocado and scrambled Quorn for breakfast and cauliflower steak or five-bean dhal for lunch or dinner. Located in the heart of London, attractions including Borough Market, St Paul’s Cathedral and the Tate Modern are all a short walk away. Advanced bookings from £432 per night.

Offering a cosy, family-run B&B with a fully-vegan philosophy, Bay Tree House in Hastings is a plant-based haven in the south of England. In addition to providing healthy, organic and eco-friendly food, including an all-vegan breakfast, Bay Tree House organises numerous wellness activities, such as yoga and tai chi, making this bed and breakfast holistically health-conscious. A classic example of a Victorian home, it has been remodelled to a high standard, with traditional hardwood flooring and plush furnishings adding to the tranquil atmosphere. An en-suite room starts from £90 per night, including breakfast.

Allowing guests to enjoy a slice of nature in an ethically focused environment, Saorse 1875 is a countryside hotel designed with vegans in mind. Set in two acres of woodland near the Scottish town of Pitlochry, it aims to champion ‘ethical luxury’. Slow-paced and thoughtfully designed, this 19^th-century house offers a plant-based menu that uses seasonal, local and foraged produce, served by a cosy restaurant fire. As well as the food menu, each room includes vegan toiletries. Prices start from £100 per night, for a room for one guest, and £150 per night for two.

Get from A to B with these seriously glamorous ways to travel, which turn exploring British destinations into an upper-class experience all the way.

Train

One of the greatest travel experiences has to be while relaxing with a glass of Champagne, savouring luxurious surroundings while gazing out of the window at ever-changing, beautiful scenery. Train travel on board the lavish Belmond Royal Scotsman (sister train of the Venice Simplon Orient Express) evokes the romance of travel from a bygone era and is all about delivering an exclusive experience; only a maximum of 36 guests are on board on any journey. There are a number of routes available; whisky lovers should check out its Malt Whisky Trail or fans of history can book onto a journey that takes you to visit castles and country estates. But it’s the experience on board that’s just as unforgettable as the stops. Visit its on-board spa for an indulgent treatment, enjoy fine dining across its two elegant dining cars and relax in the Edwardian Observation car.

Even if you only have one day to spare, you can experience the thrill of luxury train travel by dining on board the Northern Belle, which departs from regional stations throughout the UK and takes you through some of the most stunning countryside. Enjoy Champagne receptions, grand dinners or sumptuous afternoon teas in its gorgeous carriages, each of which is named after a British castle or stately home.

Hot-air balloon

Admire the exceptional beauty of the British countryside as you float above the landscapes on an exclusive trip in a hot-air balloon. Visitors have their pick of companies across the destination offering these trips; one example is Kent Ballooning, which offers ballooning over the ‘Garden of England’ – the county of Kent – in south-east England. Take it to a more exclusive, luxurious level with its VIP flights. Two passengers board their own private balloon – after watching its inflation – and enjoy Champagne during the flight.  

Alternatively, why not take part in Britain’s most famous hot-air balloon festival by booking a once-in-a-lifetime hot-air balloon trip with Virgin Balloon Flights at the Bristol Balloon Fiesta, which returns in August 2019? You’ll take to the skies over the gorgeous Somerset landscapes for three-to-four hours and witness all the other balloons taking part in the fiesta beside you, while sipping on Champagne!

Helicopter

See Britain from a different angle as you cruise above it by helicopter…all piloted of course! You just have to sit back and enjoy the scenery. If you’re in England’s capital, one of the most exclusive ways to see the city is on board The London Helicopter on a trip that takes in all the iconic landmarks from the Royal Albert Hall and Hyde Park to St Paul’s Cathedral and the Tower of London. For an extra special journey tie in a luxury chauffeur service to and from your helicopter flight and, on arrival back at the heliport in Battersea, complete the trip with a glass or two of Champagne at neighbouring ‘The Pad’ at the Crowne Plaza. Helicopter flights can, of course, be more than sightseeing. Aerial Charter Scotland, for example, offers Helicopter Distillery Tours, where whisky lovers can travel between distilleries across the five distinctive whisky producing regions of Scotland. Spot the magnificent lochs, dramatic mountains and vibrant cities as you soar overhead en route to the distilleries.

Cruise ship

Britain is an island – so what better way to explore it than on board a luxury cruise ship? There are a wide range of cruise companies operating itineraries, from around the remote Scottish islands to cruises around the whole of Britain. You’ll find all-inclusive luxury – think butler service, gourmet dining, fine wines, Champagne, suites with private verandas and indulgent spas – with companies such as Regent Seven Seas, Six Star Cruises and Silversea. A two-week cruise by Silversea departs from London and stops at ports such as the spectacular Isles of Scilly off the coast of Cornwall at the south-western tip of England; the exciting city of Belfast in Northern Ireland, the stunning Scottish islands of Lewis, Shetland, Orkney and Mull as well as the vibrant Scottish capital Edinburgh. Six Star Cruises offers a ‘British Isles Legacy’ route, with stops in Fowey in Cornwall, Liverpool in north-west England and Scotland, while Regent Seven Seas’ offers a ‘Treasures of the British Isles’ cruise, departing from Bristol, heading up to the Scottish islands and across to Aberdeen, before taking in Guernsey in the Channel Islands and the Isles of Scilly.

Chauffeur-driven luxury car

Enjoy the VIP treatment by visiting some of Britain’s top attractions and most beautiful destinations via chauffeur-driven luxury vehicle. There is a wealth of companies across Britain offering this type of service but to enhance the experience further, ensure your driver is also a knowledgeable guide. British Chauffeur Tours offers tailor-made tours to suit individual interests but check out popular journeys such as its Harry Potter tours, football tours and tours of the Cotswolds. Ever wanted to channel your inner James Bond? Book onto its Espionage London tour to discover the secret world of the spy – all, of course, from the comfort of a luxury car. Visitors can also have multi-day bespoke tours created. British Heritage Chauffeur Tours, for example, offers entire trips around Wales, England or Scotland – which include five-star accommodation along the way – as well as tours across a range in themes, from Poldark to Queen Victoria.

Spend two days combining city style with country walks, first-class restaurants with cultural treasures, all of which you’ll find in and around the UK’s first-ever national park, the Peak District, and the surrounding county of Derbyshire in north-west England. The area boasts show-stopping attractions, such as the stately home of Chatsworth and the fascinating World of Wedgwood, but look a little deeper and you’ll encounter a whole raft of must-do experiences.

DAY ONE

09:00 GO UNDERGROUND

Part of the Peak District’s charm is its enviable landscapes and stunning geological make-up. Discover this is more depth by heading into Poole’s Cavern, an ancient natural limestone cavern with colossal illuminated rock-sculpted galleries to explore. Book onto a guided tour to understand the history of this magnificent underground scenery.

11:00 TREAT YOURSELF TO A SPA

Head into the historic spa town of Buxton, where healing waters have been attracting visitors for centuries, and book in for an indulgent spa treatment. For contemporary treatments in a historic setting, try out The Devonshire Spa retreat, part of the resplendent Devonshire Dome (a Grade II-listed building dating back to 1779). Elsewhere, the town’s Palace Hotel is a fine example of Victorian architecture yet one that houses modern-day spa facilities. And, come summer 2019, there will also be the choice of The Buxton Spa, in Buxton Natural Baths, which is being redeveloped as part of the Crescent Restoration project.

13:00 ENJOY A TASTE OF THE PEAK DISTRICT

Book in for lunch at the Columbine Restaurant, situated close to the Buxton Opera House, for delicious dishes created using produce from small local suppliers in the area; the provenance of ingredients is easily traceable. You’ll enjoy creations such as fish crumble tart and a variety of English cheese from its cheese board.

14:00 HIKE THROUGH GORGEOUS COUNTRYSIDE

Drive 30 minutes from Buxton into the Peak District National Park to the village of Hathersage in the Hope Valley, and, from there, hike nine miles north to Stanage Edge. The gritstone edge stretches out to around four miles and delivers impressive views of the Dark Peak moorlands and across the valley. You may also recognise it from a scene in Pride & Prejudice, featuring Keira Knightley as Elizabeth Bennet.

17:00 DINE IN A HISTORIC PUB

Return to Hathersage and enjoy an early evening meal at The Plough Inn, a 16th-century inn located on the banks of the River Derwent. Feast on dishes such as feuilette of wood pigeon and pear or seared scallops, while vegans are well catered for with dishes such as kachoris (spiced lentil parcels) with kachumber salad.

20:00 MARVEL AT THE DARK SKIES

Just above Hathersage is one of the national park’s most magnificent viewpoints – the charmingly named Surprise View. While it’s a great spot to watch the sun set, it’s also one of the official ‘Dark Skies’ stargazing spots, meaning on a clear night you can witness the Peak District skies lit up by millions of twinkling stars.

TIME TO CHECK IN

There are a number of bed and breakfast options in the Hathersage area and you can also stay at The Plough Inn, which offers guests a choice of seven bedrooms and two shepherd huts. Equally charming is The George Hotel, a three-star hotel in Hathersage situated in an old coaching inn that dates back 500 years, and The Old Hall Hotel in Hope, five minutes from Hathersage, once a 16th-century coaching inn and now a cosy B&B.

DAY TWO

09:00 STEP BACK 500 YEARS

You’re spoilt for choice when it comes to fabulous stately homes to visit in the Peak District and Derbyshire. A little outside the national park is Hardwick Hall, a National Trust-owned property that was created in the 1500s by one of the most powerful women of Elizabethan England, the remarkable ‘Bess of Hardwick’, and added to over the centuries by her descendants. It’s a house that was built to impress and is said to have ‘more glass than wall.’ Its surrounding estate is also open every day for walks through glorious gardens and woodland trails.

11:00 CLIMB DIZZYING HEIGHTS

Journey just 30 minutes from Hardwick Hall and board an alpine-style cable car to take you to the Heights of Abraham. These observation cars give you the opportunity to admire the breathtaking vistas of the Peak District and the Derwent Valley.

13:00 SAMPLE LOCAL DELICACIES

Head back into the Peak District National Park to the pretty town of Bakewell for a spot of lunch at the quirkily decorated Lavender Tea Rooms. Charming period décor is enhanced by cute, mismatched traditional crockery, on which a range of sandwiches and cakes are served. But don’t forget to leave room for the sweet treat the town is renowned for – Bakewell pudding. Plenty of places sell it but try The Old Original Bakewell Pudding Shop – it also offers pudding-making experiences.

15:00 EXPLORE THE NATIONAL PARK

There are a myriad of wonderful walks you can do in the Peak District (and it’s a great way to walk off those pudding calories!), one of which is a walk around the Ladybower Reservoir. Here you’ll experience some of the most perfect countryside views, a mix of moorland and woodland with a stunning body of water. Bamford Edge is a good place to head to for beautiful vistas and the Y-shape of the reservoir means there are plenty of circular walking and cycling routes to choose from.

17:00 DISCOVER THE ‘PLAGUE’ VILLAGE

Row upon row of pretty stone cottages adorned by beautiful gardens make up the picturesque village of Eyam. But what makes this Peak District village profoundly fascinating is its history as the ‘plague village’. When the plague struck the village in the 17th century, the disease spread rapidly and Eyam was put under quarantine for 14 months. A stroll around this picture-prefect English village will lead you to discover the plaques outside houses that state who died there during this terrible time, as well as the ‘Boundary Stone’. This had been set up to transport food and medicine into Eyam safely from the nearby uninfected village of Stoney Middleton.

20:00 FEAST ON FIRST-CLASS FOOD

A short drive from Eyam is Baslow Hall, a gorgeous 100-year-old Grade II listed manor house. Within is the fine-dining restaurant Fischer’s at Baslow Hall, where Head Chef Rupert Rowley creates classical dishes using seasonal, British ingredients. Dine on produce such as Devon crab or Derbyshire pork jowl, hand-dived scallops or Creedy Carver duck from Devon.

TIME TO CHECK IN

Once you’ve finished your meal at Fischer’s you can book in to stay at the luxury Baslow Hall, which offers 11 beautiful bedrooms; the Garden Rooms look out onto their own private walled courtyard garden, while there is also a romantic, secluded cottage close by, Cruck Barn. Also within the area is elegant The Peacock at Rowsley, which also boasts a fine-dining restaurant, and the Losehill Hotel & Spa, a high-end boutique hotel offering spa facilities with Peak District views.

Getting there: The Peak District lies less than an hour from the cities of Manchester and Leeds (both around two hours by train from London), and around half an hour from Sheffield (also two hours by train from the capital).