‘Escape to Oxford’ campaign aims to boost domestic tourism

By Sam Pither

9 June 2022

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Experience Oxfordshire has launched a new ‘Escape to Oxford’ marketing campaign aimed at the domestic market.

The visitor push, aimed at 25-44 year olds, runs until the end of June and will encouragevisitors to visit both the city and wider county for days out and short breaks.

Hayley Beer-Gamage, CEO of Experience Oxfordshire, said: “We’re excited to see ‘Escape to Oxford’ showcasing the city, and county, alongside other destinations across England as part of the national VisitEngland campaign.

“This campaign will support our visitor economy, as businesses build back from the effects of the pandemic, as well as raise our destination profile, attracting visitors to Oxfordshire and driving bookings this summer and beyond.”

An ‘Escape to Oxford’ section has been created on Experience Oxfordshire website, where they will be encouraged to choose from a diverse range of experiences from an Official Oxford University and City Walking Tour to an Evening Cocktail Cruise on the Thames.

Other offerings include an overnight stay in the Victorian-era St Margaret’s Hotel and a visit to Blenheim Palace and Gardens, both of which can be found on the campaign’s website along with a wide range of other ideas including themed itineraries, places to stay, eat & drink and more general event guides and travel advice. These are all aimed at supporting local businesses while providing increased choice for the consumer.

As part of the initiative, which forms part of the National Tourist Board’s wider ‘Escape the Everyday’ campaign, Experience Oxfordshire has coordinated closely with the local tourism industry to create fresh and engaging content. This includes new videos and photography showcasing the local area, as well as bookable experiences to entice visitors to try new things.

VisitEngland Director, Andrew Stokes, took a wider view: “With the slower return of international tourists, now is the time to visit our wonderful cities and remind ourselves why they are such a draw. The funding will also support local businesses who have been working so hard to welcome visitors back and provide a stand-out experience.”

By Sam Pither

Sam is the Regional Editor of Biz News, responsible for both Hampshire and Dorset.

A new recruit to journalism, Sam started writing for the Business Magazine as a freelancer in May of 2022 after completing his degree in English at University College London. His passion for local businesses and ability to tell a story soon caught the attention of the publication’s management team and have led to his meteoric rise.

Sam, who lives in central Reading, takes a particular interest in technology, gaming and food and drink, having been a chef before starting his degree.