Equestrian Tourism
Tourism South East (TSE) has long been aware of huge interest in, and potential for equestrian tourism in the Region, but until recently there have been no accurate figures to describe the opportunity.
In 2003, TSE commissioned consultants to highlight opportunities and draft a plan setting out a realistic Equestrian Tourism summary for the development of the South East Region's sustainable equestrian tourism.
The overall aim of this study has been to significantly enhance the economic contribution of the equestrian sector in the South East Region by developing its tourism potential whilst ensuring the sustainability of any future equestrian tourism enterprises.
The strategic priorities are:
- To raise the profile of the South East as a focus for equestrian tourism, reinforcing TSE's objective of making the Region a 'must-visit' destination, supported by cross promotion and targeted marketing;
- To maximise the sustainable potential of the additional, high value niche markets offered by equestrian tourism in the South East;
- To create new product and marketing links and packages between good quality equestrian and tourism products and services for the benefit of both sectors; and
- To integrate relevant initiatives for, and highlight the mutual benefits of, equestrianism and tourism development.
Businesses already involved in any aspect of equestrianism in the South East, or accommodation providers and holiday operators who would like to be involved should contact the Development Team by email or telephone on 023 8062 5522.
Partners already involved include the British Horseracing Board, but TSE would like to welcome many other agencies as well as businesses to take advantage of the opportunity.
Funding for the project was obtained from SEEDA, the Regional Development Agency, TSE's Interreg IIIA 'Well Being Tourism Project', TSE's Defra funded Rural ways Programme, and Surrey County Council.