A new space dedicated to providing everything there is to know about Letchworth Garden City opens its doors to the public today, Saturday 13 July.
Discover Letchworth is a vibrant gateway to the world’s first Garden City. Located in the Heritage Foundation’s new offices at One Garden City, and next to the newly launched ‘micro museum’, Discover Letchworth offers a ‘one stop shop’ for all things Letchworth to everyone who lives in the town, as well as visitors from around the world. You will be able to find out about our special heritage, arts and cultural events; wellbeing activities; clubs, groups and societies, and a host of local services.
“We are thrilled to be launching this new service in a more prominent location and closer to many of our arts and heritage venues,” said Discover Letchworth’s Manager Heather McLaughlin. “This new service will transform how we share information with the community, engage with local clubs, groups and organisations, and ensure visitors from around the world enjoy Letchworth’s rich heritage.”
The launch of Discover Letchworth follows a community engagement exercise in 2018 where the public shared their ideas about how the former Tourist Information Centre on Station Road could better meet the needs of its customers.
Heather commented: “In early 2018, we took to the streets as well as creating a pop-up shop so that we could find out what people thought of the Tourist Information Centre. From these conversations it was clear that many people didn’t think we offered anything for them and thought we were there for tourists, not the community. Some didn’t even know we were there at all.
“It has been very rewarding to be able to respond to what our community wanted: to develop the former Tourist Information Centre into a more up-to-date service and in a more central location. We are now better placed to open our doors to the town and to people from around the world.”
Artist and illustrator Vanessa Stone will join the team on Saturday to launch a new range, which will be part of a wider selection of unique Garden City gifts on sale at Discover Letchworth.
“All are welcome to drop in between 11am and 3pm on the launch day,” added Heather. “You’ll be able to grab a goodie bag and also meet Vanessa. We look forward to welcoming everyone.”
Discover Letchworth will be open from Monday 15 July, from Monday – Saturday, 10am until 4pm. More information is available at our new website: DiscoverLetchworth.com
Follow the team on Twitter via @DiscoverLGC
