Last Friday, Dr Kieran Mullan, MP for Bexhill & Battle, spent the day celebrating English Tourism Week, shining a spotlight on the tourism sector’s contribution to the local economy, identity and heritage. The visits showcased the best of what the constituency has to offer, beginning with an iconic landmark celebrating a remarkable milestone.
The day began with an event at Bodiam Castle, to mark a century since Bodiam became part of the National Trust and celebrate its amazing staff and volunteers. This anniversary highlights its historical significance and the enduring efforts to preserve it for future generations. Kieran thanked the dedicated volunteers, whose time, passion and hard work keep the site thriving. The highlight was the cake competition, where creativity and community spirit blended deliciously, and Kieran judged Lucy to be the winner.
The second stop of the day was Crowhurst Holiday Park, a much-loved destination for both visitors and locals. Set within a beautiful estate, it offers a wide range of accommodation, leisure facilities and activities. Kieran explored the woodland lodges and amenities that make it standout. Seeing firsthand how they’re continually enhancing their visitor experience underscored just how important holiday parks are in attracting tourism and supporting local businesses.
Next on the itinerary was a visit to the newly opened Crafted at Powdermills, a retreat set within breathtaking surroundings, where investment and new employment opportunities have brought new life to this long-established venue. From beautifully designed rooms and the new onsite pub to unique experiences such as wild swimming, the site blends relaxation with the charm of the countryside. Exploring the grounds and learning about the services available made it clear that Crafted at Powdermills is poised to become a standout destination for visitors seeking an immersive retreat, as well as locals looking for a relaxed venue to spend time with friends in the pub or enjoy the facilities on offer to members and guests.
The final visit of the day was to Wylands Farm, a tranquil site known for its amazing fishing lakes. Kieran explored the grounds and learnt more about the experiences available to visitors – whether they’re seasoned anglers or families looking for a peaceful day outdoors. Wylands Farm’s mixture of natural beauty, recreational opportunity, and welcoming atmosphere made it a fitting final stop and showcased just how diverse local tourism can be.
When asked about the visits, Kieran said “It was a pleasure to see the range of tourism opportunities the constituency has to offer. Each stop showcased something unique, all brought to life by the passion of the people behind them. But I must confess… judging the cake competition at Bodiam Castle might just have been the highlight of the day!”