Start your business
Introduction
Whether you’re starting a bed and breakfast or creating a visitor attraction, we have resources that will help you learn about the key markets in your destination, find out more about your legal obligations and how to get advice tailored for your area with our local support finder.
Plan for success
Write a business plan
Discover how to write a business plan, with tips, examples and templates.
Take a Kick Off in Business course
Get advice on starting your business with a free short course from Government-backed Kick Off in Business.
Find funding
See what grants and loans are available to get your business off the ground and how to access them, in this finance hub.
Getting set up
Search the Planning Portal
If you need planning permission for your premises and business, find out about the planning process and which building regulations could affect you.
Register a new business
Access information about registering your business. Discover the difference between a sole trader and limited company and your key responsibilities.
Access tax resources
Learn about everything from tax and VAT, to keeping records and claiming expenses. You can access newsletters, videos and webinars on a wide variety of topics.
Start a food business
Find all you need to know about registering a food business with the Food Standards Agency. You can also access a useful start-up checklist.
Understand health and safety
Know your obligations on fire safety, providing safe products for guests and what risk assessments you need to carry out.
Improve your cyber security
Find free, practical resources from the National Cyber Security Centre to protect your business online.
Know your legal obligations
Our Pink Book
Find out what regulations you need to comply with, in our Pink Book Online.
Find out what regulations you need to comply with, in our Pink Book Online.
Know your market
Get your business prepared for the overseas market using our Taking England to the World inbound tourism toolkit.
View the latest data and insights relating to the business visits and events sector.
Ensure your business is inclusive to all. Widen your market, extend your season, and tap into a market estimated at over £14 billion.
Tools and resources for businesses at any stage of the regenerative tourism journey - whether just starting out or leading the way.
More on starting a tourism business
Call the Business Support Helpline
For free advice for your business, you can call the Government’s Business Support Helpline, or speak to an advisor on webchat. England: 0800 998 1098; Scotland: 0300 303 0660; Wales: 0300 060 3000; Northern Ireland: 0800 181 4422.
Find a business mentor
Get a mentor and work with an expert who can help you succeed. You can get help with everything from business plans and cash-flows, to building your brand.
Join a trade association
Discover the industry group and association for your sector, which offers support for their members to grow.
Institute of Tourist Guiding
For more information on the industry, visit the website of the officially recognised standard-setting and awarding body for tourist guiding covering England, Northern Ireland and Jersey.
British Guild of Tourist Guides
Want to become a guide? Start with The British Guild of Tourist Guides’ frequently asked questions. The membership organisation for Blue and Green Badge Tourist Guides runs training courses in England.
Get quality assessed
Te VisitEngland Quality Scheme celebrates excellence in tourism businesses of all sizes and varieties. Find out how getting an official VisitEngland accreditation or star rating can help your business.
Find local support
Use our quick tool to source local advice on key markets and funding opportunities from the accredited Local Visitor Economy Partnership or LEP Growth Hub in your area.
