A University of Lancashire Project
About Us
Welcome to the University of Lancashire's exciting new project dedicated to exploring the public value of cultural heritage in our vibrant visitor economy.
We are committed to examining how our rich historical and cultural assets contribute to community development and enhancing the lives of residents and visitors alike.
Join us and delve into the significance of Lancashire’s cultural heritage—its historic sites, traditions, and creative assets—and their crucial role in shaping our county's identity and appeal.
Together, we can ensure that our investments not only drive economic growth but also promote social inclusion, community wellbeing, and cultural sustainability.
Lancashire
Cultural Heritage Insights
Heritage Assets
Lancashire, UK, is a treasure trove of built and intangible heritage, showcasing a rich tapestry of history and culture. From the stunning architecture of historic mills and churches to the vibrant traditions of folk music, food, and local festivals; to the rolling hills and dynamic coastal plains or prestigious resorts, the county celebrates its diverse past. Visitors can explore the remnants of its industrial legacy alongside the captivating stories woven into the fabric of its communities. This blend of the tangible and intangible heritage makes Lancashire a unique destination for those seeking to connect with its fascinating history.
Visitor Economy
Discover how tourism contributes billions of pounds to the county’s economy, supports thousands of jobs and helps sustain local communities, businesses and attractions. Explore visitor trends, key market segments and the diverse range of experiences that make Lancashire a leading destination—from its coastline and countryside to its heritage, culture and food. Gain insight into the economic and social impact of the visitor economy and understand why tourism plays a vital role in Lancashire’s growth, identity and future prosperity.
Public Value
Public value is created when culture, heritage, and tourism enhance the social, cultural, and economic wellbeing of communities. Heritage and cultural assets preserve local identity, celebrate shared histories, and foster a sense of pride and belonging. Tourism helps showcase these assets to wider audiences, generating economic benefits through visitor spending and local business growth. Together, culture, heritage, and tourism encourage community engagement, strengthen social cohesion, support place-making, and contribute to vibrant, resilient destinations that enrich the lives of residents while creating meaningful experiences for visitors.
Our Initiatives
Assessing how Lancashire’s cultural heritage contributes to the creation of public value within the regional visitor economy
Regional Cultural Heritage
Exploring forms of heritage that are most significant to communities in Lancashire, and examining how different groups interpret and engage with these cultural assets.
Cultural Participation
Ascertaining which aspects of Lancashire’s cultural heritage deliver the greatest public value—particularly in terms of wellbeing, identity, pride of place, and cultural participation—and highlighting barriers that may limit access or engagement.
Place-based Investment
Applying a public value framework to Lancashire heritage settings to identify strengths, gaps, and inequalities, and guide targeted investment and partnership opportunities.
Evidence-based insights into how and why local people value heritage and cultural assets.
Clear indicators of how different ‘Lancashire heritages’ enhance a sense of local community, regional placemaking, and collective wellbeing, including challenges and barriers thereof.
Policy alignment with the Lancashire Growth Plan and [Re]Made Cultural Strategy, which will augment, direct, and enhanced understanding of regional visitor economy strategies.
Recommendations for targeted investment and partnership opportunities that maximise public value within Lancashire’s cultural tourism.
Discover Our Findings
Our project explores the rich cultural heritage of Lancashire and the public value it creates for communities across the county. Drawing on evidence from local people, organisations and places, it examines how heritage shapes identity, supports wellbeing, fosters belonging and contributes to social, cultural and economic life. We invite readers to discover why Lancashire’s heritage matters, who it serves, and how it can help build stronger, more resilient and connected communities for the future.
Heritage Gallery
A Visual Celebration of Lancashire
Connect with Us
Do reach out to us if you wish to get involved in our project