Rural Tourism and Hospitality in the United Kingdom

         

         Despite the fact that the UK is regarded as a very cosmopolitan and sophisticated destination by travelers because of its glamorous cities it hides a simpler, more natural part: the countryside. With the influence of the recent ecological trend and with the need for a new experience, more and more people are turning to rural tourism as an escape to the countryside.

                               Fig. 1: A view of the British countryside

          First, you must ask yourself: Can any picnic in the countryside be considered rural tourism? Or does it have special qualities which make it unique among other sectors? 

          Well, you could say rural tourism is just tourism that takes place in the countryside (Sharpley and Sharpley, 1997), but is it that simple? The idea of rural tourism implies traditions and customs which have been preserved within communities for many years and vary from one village to another. Thus, what gives this sector its rural character is not just the fact that it takes place in the countryside but also the people (the hosts) who integrate the guest into the village life. 

          This is not the only aspect which makes rural tourism unique among other sectors. People who spend their holidays on farms look to become closer to nature, to get away from the hustle and the bustle of the cities for a more intimate destination, so hosts provide them with a variety of experiences (knowing the locals, a quiet and peaceful environment, the feeling of reliving history etc.) and attractions such as: animal attractions and petting zoos, vineyards, arts and crafts or fishing (England Research, 2005).

             Fig. 2: Darts Farm in Devon providing learning opportunities for children

 

           Another plus for rural tourism is the quality of the hospitality. Unlike bigger hotels here the host can greet the guest by name, help him settle in, personally show him around the farm or even have a meal together (Farm Stay UK, 2011). Because of its distinctive traits rural hospitality can be very personalized and can enhance the guest’s experience, making him feel part of the family.

    This is a video of Brenley Farm, a great example of rural tourism and hospitality:

         To conclude, rural tourism in the UK offers an experience unlike any other within the industry as it encompasses a series of traits and qualities making it perfect for those who want to break away from their daily city lives for something more simple and natural.

          References:

England Research (2005) Rural and Farm tourism [Online]. Available here (Accessed: 14^th November 2012).

Farm Stay UK (2011) Available here (Accessed: 12^th November 2012).

Sharpey, R. and Sharpley, J. (1997) Rural tourism: an introduction. Oxford: International Thomson Business Press.

         Pictures and Video:

Figure 1: Available here

Figure 2: Available here

edboylefilms (2012)  BRENLEY FARM. Available here (Accessed: 14th November 2012)