Experience UK Guide 2026 | Page 7

Welcome from our CEO.

I am delighted to welcome you to the 2026 edition of the Experience UK Guide, now in its 18th year as the definitive resource for discovering world-class organisations working across the experience economy, from custodians of places and spaces, to investors, operators of experiences and those that create the and make the magic happen.
We publish this year’ s edition at a time of extraordinary momentum for the global experience economy. Around the world, destinations are increasingly recognising the power of immersive, memorable and culturally rich experiences to drive economic growth, visitor engagement and placemaking. As investment in attractions, museums, leisure destinations and cultural infrastructure continues to accelerate, the demand for specialist expertise has never been greater.
Across international markets, significant opportunities continue to emerge. The Asia Pacific region remains a major engine of growth, fuelled by rising tourism demand, urban development and investment in visitor attractions. Meanwhile, despite current challenges, the Middle East continues to transform at pace, with ambitious destination strategies and landmark projects reshaping the global tourism landscape. Closer to home, the UK’ s own experience economy continues to evolve, with major developments and renewed confidence reinforcing the UK’ s position as a global leader in creativity, storytelling, design and delivery.
At the centre of this growth is the expertise, innovation and entrepreneurial spirit that defines the UK experience economy.
The Experience UK Guide plays an important role in connecting this expertise with opportunity. Used by British Embassies, the Department for Business and Trade network, international developers, operators and procurement professionals, the Guide provides a trusted route to identifying specialist partners capable of delivering world-class visitor destinations and experiences. In 2025, the Guide achieved over 81,000 print and digital downloads, reflecting its growing international reach and relevance.
What makes this publication unique is the breadth and diversity of expertise represented within it. From globally recognised brands and established consultancies to agile creative studios and specialist suppliers, this Guide showcases the exceptional talent that exists across the UK experience economy supply chain.
At Experience UK, we remain proud to champion our members and support their domestic and international ambitions. Whether you are redeveloping a city, developing a cultural destination, planning a major attraction, seeking operational expertise or exploring new partnerships, I hope this Guide provides inspiration, insight and valuable connections.
Thank you for exploring the very best of what the UK has to offer – together we continue to shape extraordinary experiences for audiences around the world.
Ian Clappison Chief Executive, Experience UK
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