Britain is getting ready to captivate the world with a vibrant array of new experiences in 2024 that are set to redefine travel in the region, according to VisitBritain.
From awe-inspiring cultural events to hidden gems off the beaten path, there's something for every type of traveller to look forward to.
Here's a glimpse of what's in store:
• New accommodation, restaurant and venue opening
• Big events and upcoming exhibitions
• New tours, attractions, experiences and trails
• New film locations
• Big anniversaries
"As we look ahead to 2024, VisitBritain is excited to showcase a wave of new accommodation, eateries and entertainment venues, highlighting Britain’s outstanding hospitality offer. We know that travellers from the GCC enjoy dining in our wonderful restaurants and staying in our world-class hotels, all of which Britain offers in abundance. We look forward to welcoming even more visitors from across the Gulf to explore the quality experiences on offer right across Britain,” says VisitBritain Deputy Director, APMEA, Carol Maddison.
New accommodation, restaurants, and venue openings
Cambridge Street Collective, Sheffield, late 2023: Cambridge Street Collective will be a brand-new trailblazing food hall and cookery class space, located right in the heart of Sheffield. Set over three floors, the culturally diverse food destination will be home to over 24 kitchens, a cookery school and a bakery, as well as a mix of traditional, Asian and rooftop bars.
Langdale Chase hotel, Windermere, late 2023: The Langdale Chase in Windermere will reopen in autumn 2023 after extensive refurbishments. Located right on the shores of Lake Windermere, the hotel offers 30 individually designed bedrooms. Modern materials were used for the renovation to create a contemporary space within the Victorian villa. Executive chef Michael Cole will be heading up the two-AA-rosette restaurant at the hotel and deliver classic British cuisine inspired by the surroundings together with a passionate team.
Luxury Lodges at Moor Hall, Aughton, late 2023: Moor Hall is launching seven luxury lodges to connect guests with nature and provide the ultimate luxury foodie gateway. Each lodge is located within the woodlands of their grounds and will feature an outdoor terrace. Moor Hall Restaurant holds two Michelin Stars and their sister restaurant, The Barn which is also located within the grounds, was awarded a Michelin Star in 2022. Within the village of Aughton, visitors can find a third Michelin Star restaurant, So-lo.
Una St Ives, St Ives, late 2023: Situated in the picturesque Carbis Bay area on the North coast of Cornwall, the relaxed and stylish holiday resort Una St Ives will launch high-end villas from late 2023. The interior of the villas will be elegant and contemporary, each with its own private hot tub. The resort includes a spa, leisure club, a restaurant and a lido swimming pool with alfresco dining options.
The BoTree, London, late 2023: Opening its doors later this year, the BoTree Hotel will offer guests a world-class experience. Settling quietly into the London neighbourhoods of Marylebone and Mayfair, get ready to meet a sophisticated blend of luxury and elegance.
Shipyard, Manchester, late 2023/ early 2024: Adding to Manchester’s vibrant food and drink landscape, Shipyard will open in the dynamic St John’s neighbourhood. Drawing inspiration from acclaimed European food halls like Lisbon's TimeOut Market and Kyiv Food Market, the development will showcase artisan vendors and rolling smaller stalls, creating a full on foodie destination.
Mollie’s, Manchester, early 2024: Following Mollie’s Oxfordshire and Bristol, Mollie's Manchester will be the latest offering opening its doors in early 2024. From the team behind Soho House, the motel-diner will be at the historic site of the former Granada Studios in the St John's neighbourhood, once home to the iconic television show Coronation Street. The hotel will feature 140 rooms, a 164-cover diner restaurant, a lounge bar with live music, and a heated outdoor terrace with a pool.
The Other House Covent Garden, London, winter 2024: The Other House Covent Garden will offer 200 ‘Club Flats’ with beautifully designed living and sleeping areas and kitchens. Expect plush interiors including bold botanical print walls, warm velvets and British tweed throughout. Stunning private spaces, a restaurant, bars and a wellness centre will be available to residents and private members, while a destination bar and a bistro-style kitchen with seasonal menus will be open to the public. Views from the rooftop bar promise to be sensational. The property is made up of seven historic buildings and a glazed inner atrium.
The Bailiffgate, Alnwick, February 2024: Located in the heart of the town right next to Alnwick castle, the new Bailiffgate Hotel will offer 48 bedrooms and apartments. Situated in a magnificent Georgian house linked to a new five storey building, guests can overlook the Barbican entrance to the castle from the property. The hotel will boast modern yet classic interiors, bright open spaces and a wealth of natural light.
Black Sheep, London, spring 2024: After a successful pop up in London in July 2023, Black Sheep Restaurant from Hong Kong will open their first international restaurant in the capital in spring next year. The concept is yet to be released, though the chain is known for telling stories through food and creating unique restaurants with heart. The vision of the founder, Syed Asim Hussain, is “to rewrite the rules and elevate the definition of what hospitality is”.
Albert Schloss, London, spring 2024: The first Albert Schloss location in the South of England is opening next year. The venue will be taking over the Jungle Cave site on Shaftesbury Avenue, right in the heart of the West End. From daily immersive live entertainment to alpine-inspired food and drink menus, Albert Schloss will be a go-to destination for great evenings with friends in London.
Treehouse Hotel Manchester, Manchester, spring 2024: Treehouse Hotel Manchester, the hotel brand's second UK location, will open on Deansgate after an extensive redevelopment of a former hotel. With 224 bedrooms and a rooftop terrace offering panoramic views, the hotel will feature pet-friendly rooms and a line-up of food and drinks curated by celebrated Manchester chefs, including Luke Cowdrey, Justin Crawford, Mary-Ellen McTague, and Sam Grainger.
Park Hyatt London River Thames, London, spring 2024: Located within walking distance of some of London’s major attractions such as Big Ben and the London Tate, Park Hyatt London River Thames will be the first of it’s series in Britain. The hotel will offer guest 203 distinguished rooms and suites, plus event spaces, ensuring a welcoming atmosphere for leisure and business travellers alike.
Radisson Blu, Sheffield, 2024: Designed by HLM Architects and housed in the striking Victorian architecture of Pinstone Street, the four-star hotel will include 154 bedrooms. The highlight will be the rooftop bar and restaurant with a terrace providing stunning views of the Peace Gardens and Sheffield Town Hall.
No.124 Kings Road, Brighton, 2024: No.124 Kings Road Brighton will be housed inside the Regency-style, part-Grade II-listed Georgian building, offering seriously comfortable bedrooms, curious details, and genuinely welcoming, happy people. Swimmers can be in the water in a hop, shoppers can hit The Lanes in minutes, and lovers of all things kitsch can be on the pier and in its arcades in next-to-no time.
House of Social, Manchester, 2024: House of Social will be based on the ground floor of a new student accommodation building on First Street. The large and exciting food hall will have space to accommodate up to 400 people. To help local businesses, the food hall will feature independent food brands from the area.
Boxhall, Bristol, 2024: Serving up delicious eats, gourmet drinks, and relaxing vibes, Boxhall is coming to Bristol. This dynamic and modern dining concept can be currently found amongst a few London neighbourhoods. The venue is working with Josh Eggleton as the newest Food Ambassador, a celebrated chef and a Bristol local.
The Gotham Hotelle, Bristol, 2024: Located in the Old City quarter of Bristol, The Gotham Hotel will offer guest an experience like no other. The hotel features an array of quirky cast members, a reflection of history, and elegantly styled yet modern rooms.
art’otel Hoxton, London, 2024: Hoxton welcomes it’s newest accommodation offering, following the success of art’otel Battersea. As a celebration of art, each of the 27 floors will feature incredible pieces, including two Banksy originals.
Big events and upcoming exhibitions
Rebalance Bath - Festival of Wellbeing, Bath, 25 Jan – 2 Feb 2024: Immerse in a transformative journey that celebrates holistic wellness and rejuvenation. Unwind in the serene setting of Bath, a city renowned for its healing waters and historic charm. Indulge in workshops from mindfulness and nutrition to self-care. Experience the magic of ancient healing practices and the latest trends in wellness, all tailored to enhance overall well-being.
Bristol Light Festival, Bristol, 2 - 11 February 2024: An emerging light in the heart of winter, the annual Bristol Light Festival illuminates the heart of Bristol during February. Get to know the Bristol best by following light trails around the city, along with a collection of art installations from local and international artists.
Bath Bach Festival, Bath, 15 - 17 February 2024: Visit the home of one of the greatest musical prodigies to ever live and celebrate the life of Bach. Indulge in the Georgian era and relive Bach’s work to rediscover the sound of his contemporaries. Expect internationally acclaimed as well as emerging artists.
Baylight ’24, Morecambe, 15 – 17 February 2024: After a successful launch in winter 2023, light installations from all around the world will return and be presented along Lancashire’s coast. The organisers have put sustainability at the heart of their decision making. All artworks are reused at other light festivals, visitors are encouraged to offset their travel, and a number of artworks are chosen to enlighten visitors about environmental issues.
Love Light Norwich, Norwich: 15 – 17 February 2024: Every two years in February, Norwich invites visitors to experience the magic of Love Light Norwich, a free bold and bright festival. Expect captivating light artworks, interactive installations, live music, and performances for all ages. The festival celebrates love in all its forms and the communities that make Norwich.
Randox Grand National, Liverpool, 11 - 13 April 2024: The Randox Grand National experience is one England’s most iconic and electrifying horse racing events. Held at Aintree Racecourse, witness majestic thoroughbreds thunder down the track. Immerse in a vibrant and carnival spirit, with fashionistas showcasing their style, celebs in the stands, and a true test of bravery from the jockeys.
Comic Con, Portsmouth, 11-12 May 2024: The International Festival of Comics ‘Portsmouth Comic Con’ returns next year to Portsmouth Guildhall showcasing the best in Comics, Film, TV and Pop Culture entertainment. Some of the best writers and illustrators in the industry will join, alongside actors and the wonderful world of Cosplay. There will be panels, displays, exhibitions, gaming, VR, Steampunk and an impressive range of merchandise and collectables for visitors.
The Late Shows, Newcastle, May 2024: Over two nights in May, Newcastle and Gateshead invites locals and visitors to a culture crawl. The Late Shows is one of the biggest cultural events of the year for the city. From open art studios, music performances and bizarre and intriguing interactive events, there is so much happening all over the city during these two nights. The line-up will be announced in spring 2024.
Concours on Savile Row, London, May 2024: At the extraordinary Concours on Savile Row, tailoring and cars unite in a unique celebration of bespoke craftsmanship. This two-day event showcases the finest cars and tailoring displays, creating a fascinating blend of artistry and innovation. Savile Row, renowned for bespoke tailoring, hosts the world's greatest cars and will be closed for traffic for the event. Visitors can enjoy talks, live music and more.
Royal Henley Regatta, Oxfordshire, 2 – 7 July 2024: One of the most elite regatta events in the world, the Royal Henley Regatta boast the most — with over 300 rowing races spanning just six days. Follow the sound of rushing water and cheering crowds to find the perfect viewing spot and enjoy the celebrated spectacle with drinks, sweet treats, and good friends.
Brit Fest, Cheshire, 5 – 7 July 2024: Just like Britain, this festival has something for everyone. From traditional classic cuisine like fish and chips, to an assorted range of tasteful street foods vendors. Expect top tier entertainment, give woodcraft or whittling a try, or slip quietly into a silent disco. Brit Fest celebrates the finest of British tradition and culture by curating a melting pot of the country’s best.
Blue Dot Festival, Cheshire, 25 – 28 July 2024: Abandon the festival fantasy and step into a new realm of possibilities at the Blue Dot Festival. The award-winning festival is a mind-blowing celebration fusing ‘music, science, arts, culture and space exploration’. Set inside an enchanting observatory, Blue Dot defies the norm and unites science and music to create an explosive and unmatched adventure.
David Bowie World Fan Convention, Liverpool, 26 - 28 July 2024: Come together with fans from around the globe to celebrate the iconic legend, David Bowie. An annual event held in Liverpool every year revitalises the celebrated and well-known career of the notable rock-star.
Bristol Harbour Festival, Bristol, July 2024: Bristol’s annual maritime gathering includes world class entertainment, fantastic street foods, and a flurry of water activities. Celebrate alongside friends during the exciting arrival of all sorts of ships in the harbour.
Wicked, Sunderland, 24 September – 20 October 2024: The popular musical Wicked tells the backstories of Glinda The Good and the Wicked Witch of the West. It has been a huge success in the West End, attracting over eleven million viewers at the Apollo Victoria Theatre in London. The show will come to Sunderland Empire Theatre which is the biggest theatre in the North East and housed inside a Grade II listed Edwardian building.
New tours, attractions, experiences, and trails
Showtown Museum, Blackpool, early 2024: The museum of fun and entertainment will be opening in 2024. It will tell the story of all the entertainers who turned Blackpool into the home of show business by capturing the spirit of the town. The immersive museum will offer something for everyone, with hands-on dance and singing activities, interactive displays and learning spaces.
‘The Edge’, Whitehaven, spring 2024: A brand-new coastal activity centre is opening in Whitehaven in spring 2024. Whitehaven, known as ‘the Coastal Gateway to the Lakes,’ is at the start of the epic C2C (Coast to Coast) cycle route. Besides offering water sports and recreational facilities, it will also support coastal recreational activities and provide a community centre. The building will also include some ensuite guest accommodation offerings and a café.
The new Perth Museum, Scotland, spring 2024: The museum will open its doors in spring 2024 after a £26.5 million re-development project. This world-class cultural and heritage attraction will highlight the fascinating objects and stories that put Perth and Kinross at the centre of Scotland’s story.
Cotswolds Designer Outlet, Cotswolds, spring 2024: The first phase of the new designer outlet is planned to open in spring 2024. More than 90 fashion and lifestyle brands will be presented at the retail destination. The architecture of the buildings has been inspired by the picturesque Cotswold's region, and the outlet will be more than just a shopping centre. It will also be home to a village, including plenty of bars and restaurants, along with a full calendar of events including street food festivals, art exhibitions and music events.
V&A East Storehouse, London, spring 2024: Visit the V&A museum for a chance to get exclusive access to thousands of artefacts ahead of the 2025 V&A East opening. Visitors will be taken on an immersive journey through intricate displays, galleries and experience state-of-the-art storage techniques that allow for optimum exposure of each exhibit.
Manchester Town Hall, Manchester, June 2024: Manchester's magnificent 19th century Town Hall is set to re-open its doors to the public in 2024, after a comprehensive restoration effort aimed at preserving it for generations to come. The Town Hall will feature a new education exhibition about the building's rich history. Visitors will have the opportunity to explore previously unseen areas, such as the Victorian police cells, courtyard, and clock tower on new guided tours.
Norwich Castle, Norwich, summer 2024: The remarkable medieval Norwich Castle is undergoing a major re-development and will fully open in summer 2024. The renovation includes a new glass atrium for clear views of the stunning East façade and Bigod Tower, as well as a visitor facility with a cafe, shop, and accessible toilets. Cutting-edge projection and digital technology will immerse visitors in King Henry I's lavish Castle, revealing its untold stories and Norwich's medieval importance.
Jewry Wall Museum, Leicester, autumn 2024: Jewry Wall Museum is undergoing a major re-development, transforming it into a 21st century visitor attraction. The immersive hands-on experience will be using cutting-edge technology to tell visitors the Roman history of the city. Visitors will be able to experience what life in Leicester was like during these times.
Bristol Zoo Project, Bristol, 2024: Explore the grounds formerly known as, the Wild Place Project, and discover one of Bristol’s top attractions. Adventure through over 50 acres of wildlife and connect with species big and small. From lions and leopards to zebras and giraffes, learn all about Bristol Zoological Society's world-wide conservation and education work.
The Rising at Raby Castle, County Durham, 2024: From next year, visitors to Raby castle will be able to explore re-imagined gardens, stylish shops and taste local flavours quaintly housed inside the newly refurbished heritage buildings. The attraction is currently undergoing an ambitious redevelopment. They are creating a destination for everyone by telling stories about the thrilling past and promising future of the castle and the region.
Freedom Tours, Newcastle, 2024: After a huge success in Edinburgh, Freedom Tours has decided to bring their experience to Newcastle in 2024. The self-guided tours are delivered to your smartphone with subtitles available in several languages. Actors born and bred in Newcastle will present the tour in an informative and entertaining way. The tours allow a lot of flexibility. Visitors can stop and start as they please, topics and themes can be chosen, plus, you can start anytime within 12 months of purchasing their ticket.
Ashton Gate Stadium Re-development, Bristol, 2024: Already in progress, the re-development plans for the Ashton Gate Stadium are set to give the Bristol Flyers basketball team a permanent home. The state-of-the-art facilities will offer visitors hotel accommodation, shopping, and even a residential space.
Museum of Shakespeare, London, 2024: ‘The Museum of Shakespeare,’ is set to open in early spring next year. The theatre is being built on what is still left of the Curtain Playhouse, an ancient theatre in Shoreditch that was first re-discovered in 2011. The immersive museum, created by Bompas & Parr in collaboration with Cain International, Museum of London Archaeology and Historic England, will be part of The Stage, a new public space with offices, housing, leisure areas and a roof terrace.
Wigan Pier, Greater Manchester, 2024: Wigan Pier, located an hour outside of Manchester, is currently undergoing a remarkable transformation breathing new life into the long-vacant 18th Century industrial buildings. The iconic location will be turned into a vibrant waterside destination, featuring a gin distillery, micro-brewery, food hall, events venue, and cultural hub.
Big anniversaries
200th anniversary of the opening of the first Cadbury shop, Birmingham: The success story of the famous British chocolate producer Cadbury started in 1824. In that year, the founder, John Cadbury, opened his first shop at 93 Bull Street in Birmingham. Besides cocoa, he also sold drinking chocolate to his customers. Visit Cadbury World to learn more about the history of the brand and how their delicious chocolate is made.
150th anniversary of Aston Villa Football Club, Birmingham: Four members of the Male Adult Bible class at the Aston Villa Wesleyan Chapel were looking for a suitable winter sport activity in 1874. They first considered rugby but came to the conclusion that it was too physical and choose football instead. This decision led to the creation of Aston Villa Football Club. Little did they know that the club would become one of the greatest football clubs in the world.
125th anniversary of Birmingham Hippodrome, Birmingham: Birmingham Hippodrome organises and hosts memorable theatrical performances, arts and culture in the city. Their vision is to be the centre stage of Birmingham’s world-class cultural scene by telling fresh and engaging stories reflecting the youth and diversity of the city and region. The non-profit cultural charity focuses on access, diversity and inclusion. Two of the big shows for next year are The Sleeping Beauty (21 February – 2 March 2024) and Hamilton (25 June – 31 August 2024).
100th anniversary of the Gold Cup at Cheltenham Festival, Cheltenham, 15 March 2024: The Gold Cup Centenary celebrates Cheltenham Festival’s greatest racehorses and heroes. To celebrate its 100th anniversary, the festival will organise events to re-tell the greatest stories and engage with existing fans as well as attract new ones. Next year’s Gold Cup Day will be an event not to miss for horse racing fans. Featuring a parade of Champions, it promises to be an unforgettable celebration.
75th anniversary of the Cheltenham Literature Festival, Cheltenham, October 2024: The world's first and longest-running literature festival is celebrating its 75th anniversary. Cheltenham Literature Festival champions the written and spoken word by showcasing emerging voices in fiction and poetry alongside literary legends and prominent speakers. The 10-day program offers a diverse range of ticketed events, free family activities, and fringe events within the regency town.
50th Anniversary of Caribbean Carnival, Preston, spring 2024: The long running cultural celebration Caribbean Carnival are planning their biggest event yet. All about positivity, the event is open to everyone. Attracting thousands of visitors each year, the city comes to life during this time of the year celebrating Caribbean music, dancing, cuisine and much more.
* Opening dates are correct at the time of publication but are subject to change.
- TradeArabia News Service