Wine Tourism UK – 2011 The ultimate guide to the wine estates of England & WalesIt's time to put the English and Welsh wine industry firmly on the tourist mapThe wine industry in the UK has been steadily growing in terms of quality and stature, with UK wine achieving international recognition and winning many international awards along the way. The fact that there are over 400 wine estates/vineyards in the UK comes as a surprise to many, including ourselves when we started this venture. Despite a considerable increase in levels of wine production in the last ten years, demand frequently outstrips supply, so wine producers have to look elsewhere for additional income to support further business growth. The development of wine tours, tastings and the like are not only beneficial to the wine producers but also a great alternative to traditional tourist attractions. Visitors leave with an improved knowledge and appreciation of the quality and standard that UK wine has achieved, which in turn will help the wine industry grow. There are books on wine and books on tourism but this book is unique in that it brings together wine production, wine and food festivals, major tourist attractions and places of note. The vast majority of wine estates and vineyards are included; a good selection of wine and food fairs, and selected tourist attractions, this provides a good basis for general tourism in the eight wine regions. This first edition, in what will be an annual publication, is just the start of the journey, as it develops over the coming years; we hope it will be a journey that many will enjoy.