A NEW website aims to strengthen Shipston’s place on the tourist map.
The market town has unveiled its new online presence – Love Shipston – during English Tourism Week to encourage day-trippers and families to spend more time in the town and explore its small businesses and restaurants.
Several community-minded businesses teamed up to consider how best to present the visitor offer over the last nine months, culminating in the launch of the new website with the support of Warwickshire County Council and Shipston Town Council.
The town, with a history in both traditional craft industries and as a coaching town, boasts listed buildings and has become fertile ground for an array of independent businesses.
Shops range from traditional butchers, bakers and greengrocers to wine, homeware, gifts and fashion while cafes and restaurants cater for all occasions.
It comes as the town looks to increase visitor numbers and lengthen the duration of stays, with businesses able to get involved using the hashtag #LoveShipston.
The project has been led by retail expert Kim Hulse – who has more than 20 years’ experience in the industry.
Kim said: “It’s been brilliant to see so many people pulling in the same direction to shout about Shipston as one of the UK’s leading independent shopping destinations.
“There is a strong community spirit between the owners, and this support is helping to build on a recent influx of visitors who are realising what a great array of places to visit there are here.
“The fact that most businesses are run by local people with products curated by them means the shopping experience feels incredibly personalised – and this has strengthened Shipston’s resilience as a shopping destination at a time when consumers are wanting greater value for their money on the high street, and a good shopping experience.
“All of this is on the doorstep of great cycling and walking routes, which means there is so much potential for a special day out and really helps to set Shipston apart, and I think even more people from across the UK will certainly start to take more notice thanks to this new platform.”
Ian Cooper, from Shipston Town Council, added: “We are proud to support this new website which showcases everything Shipston has to offer to residents and visitors alike. Shipston offers a warm community spirit and thriving centre to those who live here and those that move here, and with the arrival of new businesses, we look forward to seeing the town supported by residents and visitors.”
Love Shipston can be found at https://shipston.destinationtemplate.co.uk/
