A HIGH-PROFILE line-up of speakers is taking shape for one of the showpiece events of the 50th anniversary year.


Cumbria Tourism is teaming up with English Lakes Hotels Resorts and Venues to bring a prestigious summit focusing on innovation and future trends in the tourism industry to Low Wood Bay Resort & Spa on Thursday, November 21.
Looking ahead to new opportunities and challenges in 2025 and beyond, it will feature firsthand demonstrations of the technology being developed to help tomorrow’s visitors to experience our world-class destination in creative new ways.
The event is also doubling up as a key fundraiser to support the next generation of tourism talent through the 50th Anniversary Charitable Fund.
Already confirmed as a speaker to help bring the latest innovations, ideas and trends to life is the CEO of UKHospitality, Kate Nicholls.

She will be sharing her insights into the future challenges facing the industry.
There will be an expert debate on cashless payments and the growing demand for cryptocurrency, as well as invaluable advice and inspiration on reducing cyber security risk, new insights into AI and an exploration of future visitor trends.
A key focus on future sustainable transport demand and solutions will include a session featuring ‘You Smart Thing’ and a European Space Agency-funded project Cumbria Tourism is involved in – testing satellite technology to promote recommended routes and low-carbon travel plans for visitors.
Managing director of Cumbria Tourism, Gill Haigh, said: “Our industry is constantly innovating, and this is an exciting opportunity for tourism professionals to come together against a backdrop of innovation, inspiration and transformative ideas to add real value to their business.
“It will give us a collective glimpse of the future and enable people not only to explore what’s around the corner, but help them develop the right solutions to stay one step ahead of the competition in a world where new technology is evolving fast.
“Plus there will be a special emphasis on the next generation of tourism and hospitality ambassadors, with a number of places available for student delegates from around the country.”
More speakers will be confirmed over the coming weeks. To register your interest in booking an early bird ticket, email info@cumbriatourism.org