Somerset and Exmoor have been officially recognised as a premier tourism destination, earning Local Visitor Economy Partnership (LVEP) status from VisitEngland. This prestigious accreditation brings together Somerset Council, Exmoor National Park Authority, Visit Exmoor, and Visit Somerset into a unified strategic partnership dedicated to advancing the region’s visitor economy.
With Somerset Council acting as the accountable body and Emma Thomasson, Chief Executive of Visit Exmoor, serving as the strategic liaison to VisitEngland, the partnership is poised to drive significant growth in tourism. This endorsement reflects Somerset and Exmoor’s long-term commitment to enhancing tourism’s contribution to the local economy.
Tourism is a cornerstone of the region’s economic vitality, generating over £1.1 billion in annual visitor spending and sustaining more than 20,000 jobs. Particularly within rural Exmoor, tourism accounts for two-thirds of employment, highlighting its crucial role in supporting local communities and businesses across Somerset.
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Managed by VisitEngland, the LVEP programme recognises high-performing tourism bodies that shape England’s visitor economy. Somerset and Exmoor’s new status enables collaboration with the Great Southwest Tourism Partnership and other LVEPs, including those in Cornwall, Devon, and North Devon’s Exmoor region.
To steer this initiative, an advisory board comprising industry leaders, sector representatives, and local ambassadors from across the region will be formed. This board will guide the LVEP’s strategy, fostering sustainable growth and ensuring an exceptional visitor experience that benefits businesses, communities, and travellers alike.