Event Details

This hybrid Study Event (combining online and live elements) examines North West England as an important destination for tourism, both historical and modern. A range of distinguished speakers look back at the glory days of the 19th century and forward to current regeneration prospects.

The North West of England has long been an important destination for tourism. From the Victorian fascination with the Lake District, to the 20th century rise of working-class seaside resorts like Blackpool, the region has played a significant role in British leisure activities. This hybrid Study Event (with both online and live elements) looks at the glory days of historical tourism and the prospects for regeneration projects.

Two presentations will be pre-recorded, and the videos will be made available in advance to all those who register. You can watch at a time of your own choosing, via our dedicated online space, in the days leading up to the live event on Saturday 30 April. A special screening of these videos will also take place in the Library events space from 10.30am on the day should you be unable to access the videos beforehand - there is no expectation that people who attend in the afternoon will attend in the morning. The other two presentations will be given in person during the afternoon session, which will be broadcast and recorded via Microsoft Teams from 1.45-4 pm. A live Q&A session with the speakers from 4.15-5.00 pm will also be broadcast, but not recorded. We will send out full information on how to access the videos (which will remain available for some time after the event) as well as how to join the Q&A session.

Speakers include Dr Christopher Donaldson (History Department, Lancaster University), Professor Robert Barratt (Eden Project Chair of Education and Engagement, Lancaster University), Andrew Walmsley (PhD candidate Lancaster University) and Heather Morrow (Head of Heritage, Blackpool Showtown Museum Project)