TOURISM is set for a boost this summer after a leading travel guide named Warwickshire one of Europe’s must see places.
The county is the only UK destination in Lonely Planet’s top ten Best in Europe destinations for travellers in 2016 – singled out for its diversity of things to see and do.
Warwickshire was placed sixth in a list topped by the Peloponnese in mainland Greece.
Lonely Planet’s editorial director Tom Hall said: “Warwickshire is best known for Stratford-upon-Avon, the birthplace of Shakespeare, but Warwickshire has so much more to offer.
“Check out the atmospheric remains of Kenilworth Castle, experience the wonderful mix of Tudor, Georgian and Victorian architecture of Charlecote Park, or sample some culinary wizardry at Michelin-starred The Cross (in Kenilworth).
“Whether travellers are seeking sublime scenery, historic market towns or perfect ruins, Warwickshire has them all, making the county one of our top European picks this summer.”
Best in Europe is compiled by the guide’s experts, who for over 40 years, have trodden every cobbled street and admired every view on the continent.
The eyes of the world have been focused on ‘Shakespeare’s County’ with the year-long celebrations of the Bard’s legacy marking 400 years since his death.
It has included the opening of Shakespeare’s Schoolroom in his home town, and the re-imagining of New Place, his final Stratford home, which opens on July 1.
Elsewhere, Warwick Castle has just restored and re-launched its 22-tonne trebuchet – the world’s largest siege machine – while Rugby, the home of the oval ball game, continues to attract fans from across the world, and has just announced plans to open the World Rugby Hall of Fame later this year.
Helen Peters, chief executive of Warwickshire tourism promoters Shakespeare’s England, said: “I am delighted Warwickshire has been selected by Lonely Planet as one of Europe’s top destinations this year.
“2016 has been such an important year with the county celebrating so many important events and anniversaries, not only Shakespeare’s 400th but also the 300th anniversary of Capability Brown and 750th anniversary of the Siege of Kenilworth Castle.
“To be awarded this accolade is testament to all that this fantastic county has to offer both domestic and international visitors alike.”
Lonely Planet’s Best in Europe 2016 destinations –
1. Peloponnese, Greece
2. Aarhus, Denmark
3. Venice, Italy
4. The Dordogne, France
5. Lviv, Ukraine
6. Warwickshire, England
7. Extremadura, Spain
8. East Coast Tenerife, Canary Islands
9. Texel, the Netherlands
10. Northern Dalmatia, Croatia
