Britain will be all abuzz in 2019, from literary festivals to opening an historical house to the public for the first time—one that inspired an iconic song.
“The global travel and tourism industry is more competitive than ever, and VisitBritain is dedicated to enhancing our tourism landscape and bringing market-driven products to life,” says Carl Walsh, director of travel trade, North America. “Through our consumer marketing campaigns, relationships within the travel trade industry and the Discover England Fund, we are able to deliver a range of new, world-class tourism products that keep Britain competitive and exciting.”
Strawberry Field, a former children’s home in Liverpool where musician John Lennon frequented to escape a difficult childhood, will open to the public just over 50 years after The Beatles released “Strawberry Fields Forever.” The large Victorian house, which was donated to the Salvation Army when it closed in 2005, will be transformed to include an exhibition space, a café and gardens, as well as a place that offers employment opportunities and support for adults with learning disabilities. Exhibits will explore the story of the house, the song it inspired and Lennon’s early life.
In October, one of the United Kingdom’s oldest literary festivals turns 70. The Cheltenham Literature Festival showcases world-renowned writers, actors, politicians and poets who celebrate the written word. The festival is 10 days of more than 500 workshops, debates and interviews, and free family events. Visitors can also enjoy an around-the-world culinary adventure with street food and restaurants in the heart of Cheltenham.
For more information, reach out to Lisa Sjolund of VisitBritain.
Top photo: Cheltenham Literature Festival
Photo by stillmovingmedia.co.uk
