The inaugural Visit Pembrokeshire Tourism Summit at Rhosygilwen, Pembrokeshire was an inspiring thought-leadership event, where tourism organisations came together to reflect on current challenges.

They also came to discuss what the county does well as a destination and where it could do better, and to hear about the updated Pembrokeshire 2024-28 Destination Management Plan, which aims to make Pembrokeshire a world leader in Regenerative Tourism.

Speakers at the event on Thursday, May 16 covered a variety of topics: Clare Dwight from Visit Wales shared insights from Visit Wales on how to attract more international visitors. Marten Lewis talked about Bluestone’s Sustainability journey and Business Wales shared funding opportunities to support businesses on their own sustainability journey.

‘Open to All’ Project Manager Abi Marriot explained how Pembrokeshire is developing as an inclusive destination, James Parkin discussed changes in tourism in Pembrokeshire Coastal National Park, Visit Pembrokeshire CEO Emma Thornton launched Pembrokeshire’s updated 2024-28 Destination Management Plan, followed by a presentation from Professor Sarah Nicholls from Swansea University who shared inspiration from near and far on how to put this into action.

Adding a unique feel to the day, delegates also enjoyed an interactive session with Leanne Bird from Well Being and Adventure and visits from Fernando and Coco from Sweet Home Alpaca, alongside the Welsh Lobster Company, all reminders of what makes Pembrokeshire such a special and diverse place.

Emma Thornton said: “We were delighted with how our first Visit Pembrokeshire Summit went last week. It was a day of thought provoking and inspirational speakers, authentic Pembrokeshire experiences, making new connections and the launch of our updated Destination Management Plan. Now the work really starts as we move on to making this happen. A big thank you to all our speakers and exhibitors.

“Through closer collaboration, we can and will improve our competitive edge as a destination.”

Visit Pembrokeshire leads on the coordination and delivery of Pembrokeshire’s Destination Management Plan, a shared vision and plan around which the destination and partners can unite. To find out more about the 2024-28 Destination Management Plan and to get involved, email [email protected].