Aberdeen event: networking, inspiration and alcohol-free cocktails

You don’t need alcohol to enjoy yourself, and you certainly don’t need it to connect, learn, and feel inspired.

Women in Tourism is delighted to invite our community to a special evening of conversation and connection at SOBR, Scotland’s first fully sober bar, right in the heart of Aberdeen. This event brings together networking, fresh perspectives, and a chance to experience a hospitality concept that is quietly reshaping how we think about social spaces.

At the heart of SOBR is a simple but powerful idea: great experiences don’t need alcohol. Since opening its doors in autumn 2025, SOBR has gone from strength to strength, earning a place among the world’s Top 10 sober bars as recognised by The Spirits Business. It’s a space designed for everyone, welcoming, inclusive, and centred on wellbeing without compromise.

An evening with Kate Kenyon, founder of SOBR

We’ll be joined by Kate Kenyon, who will share her journey and the motivation behind creating SOBR. Kate’s story is one of purpose-led entrepreneurship and bold thinking, offering insight into what it takes to build something genuinely different within the tourism and hospitality sector.

Her experience speaks directly to the Women in Tourism mission: supporting women who are shaping the future of the industry on their own terms, and creating spaces where others can thrive.

Event programme

  • 18:00 Arrival and refreshments. Enjoy an alcohol-free cocktail of your choice

  • 18:30 Welcome from Women in Tourism

  • 18:40 Guest speaker: Kate Kenyon, Founder of SOBR

  • 19:00 Q&A and continued networking

The evening is designed to be relaxed and conversational, with plenty of time to meet new faces, reconnect with familiar ones, and continue the discussion sparked by Kate’s talk.

Why attend?

  • Be inspired by Kate’s story, one of many women leaders shaping tourism in the North East

  • Grow your professional network in a friendly, supportive environment

  • Enjoy a social evening without alcohol and wake up the next morning feeling fresh and energised

Whether you work in hospitality, destination marketing, travel, visitor attractions, or a supporting role across the sector, this event offers a chance to step away from the everyday and reconnect with the bigger picture.

Book your place

Spaces for this Aberdeen event are limited, and we recommend booking early to avoid disappointment.

We’d love to see you there and to welcome you into another evening of thoughtful conversation, shared learning, and genuine connection.

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Jill Walker VisitScotland

International Women’s Day 2026: “Give to Gain” at Strathclyde University

Celebrate International Women’s Day with WIT

Women in Tourism invites you to celebrate International Women’s Day 2026 with an inspiring evening of connection, collaboration and collective growth. 

Taking place on Thursday 5 March 2026 from 4pm to 7pm at the Strathclyde University Technology & Innovation Centre, Executive Suite, this special event explores the theme “Give to Gain” – celebrating how generosity, mentorship and shared experience help women across tourism and hospitality thrive. 

We’re delighted to welcome Jill Walker of VisitScotland as our guest speaker, sharing industry insights and updates that shine a light on the opportunities ahead for Scotland’s vibrant tourism sector. 

The event also features a selection of taster sessions designed to inspire and connect. Tartan Retreats are confirmed to participate, with more contributors to be announced soon. 

Programme highlights   

  • 4.00 – 4.30 pm: Arrival, tea/coffee and networking
  • 4.30 – 5.00 pm: VisitScotland update with Jill Walker
  • 5.00 – 6.00 pm: Taster sessions and short talks
  • 6.00 – 7.00 pm: Networking drinks and canapés 

Tickets 

  • £25 for Women in Tourism members 
  • £30 for non-members 

This International Women’s Day, come together with peers and allies to celebrate women’s achievements, share ideas and build supportive connections that help everyone grow. 

Book your place now 

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Celia Joicey, Dovecot Studios
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Women in Tourism Leadership Evening at Dovecot Studios 

Leadership, creativity and connection: join us for our January Women in Tourism event 

Women in Tourism is delighted to begin 2026 with an inspiring evening focused on leadership, creativity and connection. 

Taking place on Wednesday 14 January 2026 at 6pm at Dovecot Studios, Edinburgh, this special event will welcome Celia Joicey, Director of Dovecot Studios. Celia will share insights from her leadership journey, her experiences in the cultural sector and her role in shaping one of Scotland’s most treasured creative institutions. 

A celebration of design and innovation 

Your ticket includes two glasses of fizz and exclusive entry to the IKEA Museum’s Magical Patterns exhibition. This vibrant exhibition celebrates 60 years of innovative textile design, featuring 180 iconic fabrics that showcase IKEA’s commitment to creativity, collaboration and experimentation. As part of the evening, you will enjoy a guided tour that brings these stories to life. 

Who is the event for? 

This session is designed for women at every stage of their career. Whether you are stepping into leadership for the first time or looking to build your confidence and influence, you will find a warm and welcoming environment to learn, reflect and grow. 

Why attend? 

✨ Hear from an established leader in Scotland’s cultural and tourism landscape
🤝 Connect with a supportive community of women across the sector
💡 Gain practical insights to strengthen your own leadership journey 

Tickets 

£15 for WIT members
£20 for non members 

Your ticket includes two glasses of fizz and entry to the Magical Patterns exhibition. 

We look forward to welcoming you for an evening of inspiration, creativity and community.
Book your place now. 

 

 

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Women in Tourism Christmas Drinks at the Edinburgh Gin Distillery

As 2025 draws to a close, join Women in Tourism for an evening of festive cheer, good conversation and inspiring company at our Christmas Drinks. 

On Monday 1 December, we’ll gather in the Distillery Bar at the award-winning Edinburgh Gin Distillery for a relaxed evening of networking, laughter and connection. Your ticket includes two gin and tonics (or soft drinks), and the bar will remain open to the public after 8pm for anyone who’d like to stay on and continue the celebrations. 

This is a brilliant opportunity to reconnect with friends, meet new faces from across the tourism sector, and raise a glass to a busy and inspiring year. 

Event details:

📅 Date: Monday 1 December 2025

📍 Venue: Distillery Bar, Edinburgh Gin Distillery

🕕 Time: 6pm – 8pm (bar open to the public from 8pm)

🎟️ Tickets: £20 (members) / £25 (non-members)

🥂 Includes: Two gin and tonics or soft drinks 

Step into wonder at the Edinburgh Gin Distillery — proudly named Scottish Gin Distillery of the Year and Gin Tourist Destination of the Year. Beneath Edinburgh’s historic arches, imagination meets craftsmanship in award-winning experiences, from immersive tours to hands-on gin making and rooftop cocktails with a view. 

Places are limited to 100 guests, so book early to secure your spot. 

👉 Book your ticket now

Edinburgh Gin Distillery Logo Edinburgh Gin Distillery

 

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Women in Tourism Dumfries & Galloway event: hear from Avive Asbridge, Emma McMurtie-Crawford & Melanie Allen

This event has been postponed to the Spring of 2026

This November, Women in Tourism will host its first event in Dumfries & Galloway at Castle Douglas with an event designed to connect, inspire and empower women across the tourism sector.  

On Tuesday 11 November, join us at the Ernespie Farm in the ‘Gelato Hut’ (it’s never too cold for Gelato!), Old Military Road, Castle Douglas Dumfries and Galloway for a morning of networking, learning and conversation in Edinburgh.  

We’re thrilled to welcome two inspiring speakers to share their stories:  

  • Avive Asbridge, Kirkcudbright Summer Festivities 
  • Emma McMurtrie – Crawford, Castle Douglas Civic Week/Market Inn Hotel  
  • Melanie Allen, director of Go Innovate, Vice-Chair of SCOTO CIC 

Together, they’ll discuss their career journeys, what drives them, the challenges they’ve overcome, and their perspectives on the importance of networks like Women in Tourism. Expect honest reflections, practical advice and plenty of inspiration.  

OurBoard Member, Lesley Wood, will open the event with a warm welcome before we dive into the conversations.  

Whether you’re working in hospitality, attractions, digital marketing or destination management, this is a chance to connect with like-minded professionals and take away new ideas to support your career journey.  

Event details  

  • 📅 Date: Tuesday 11 November, 10.30am arrival for 11am start
  • 📍 Venue: Ernespie Farm ‘Gelato Hut’, Old Military Road, Castle Douglas, Dumfries and Galloway 
  • 🎟 Tickets: £10 members | £15 non-members  

  Spaces are limited, so early booking is advised.  

👉 Book your ticket now 

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Women in Tourism Aberdeen event: hear from Claire Bruce & Raeanne Verlegh

This November, Women in Tourism is delighted to be coming to Aberdeen for a morning of connection, conversation and inspiration. 

On Monday 10 November, join us at the Douglas Hotel in the heart of Aberdeen, for a networking event designed to support and empower women across the tourism sector. 

We’re thrilled to welcome two accomplished speakers with deep roots in the North-east: 

  • Claire Bruce, Co-CEO of Glen Tanar Estate and former Chair of VisitAberdeenshire, has dedicated nearly 20 years to tourism in the region. From leading on responsible development at Glen Tanar to mentoring local entrepreneurs, Claire brings a wealth of knowledge and passion for sustainable tourism. 
  • Raeanne Verlegh, Travel Trade and Venue Hire Business Development Manager at the National Trust for Scotland, has built her career in the North-east and beyond, with experience at VisitAberdeenshire and in business travel. She is passionate about product development, strong partnerships and the power of Scotland’s heritage in tourism. 

 

Together, they’ll share their career journeys, what drives them, the challenges they’ve overcome, and their perspectives on the value of networks like Women in Tourism. Expect honest reflections, practical advice and plenty of inspiration. 

Whether you’re working in attractions, hospitality, events or destination management, this is a chance to meet like-minded professionals and take away fresh ideas for your career journey. 

Event details 

📅 Date: Monday 10 November 2025, 10:30 – 12:30 
📍 Venue: Douglas Hotel, 43-45 Market St, Aberdeen AB11 5EL 
🎟 Tickets: £10 members | £15 non-members 

👉 Book your ticket now

Spaces are limited, so early booking is advised. 

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Women in Tourism Edinburgh event: hear from Kat Brogan & Jill Walker

This September, Women in Tourism returns to Edinburgh with an event designed to connect, inspire and empower women across the tourism sector. 

On Tuesday 30 September, join us at the beautiful Kimpton Hotel, Charlotte Square,  for a morning of networking, learning and conversation in Edinburgh. 

We’re thrilled to welcome two accomplished industry leaders to share their stories: 

  • Kat Brogan, Managing Director of Mercat Tours, one of Edinburgh’s leading tour companies. 
  • Jill Walker, Director of Marketing & Digital at VisitScotland, with an impressive career spanning agency leadership, government, and national tourism marketing. 

Together, they’ll discuss their career journeys, what drives them, the challenges they’ve overcome, and their perspectives on the importance of networks like Women in Tourism. Expect honest reflections, practical advice and plenty of inspiration. 

Our Chair, Lesley Williams, will open the event with a warm welcome before we dive into the conversations. 

Whether you’re working in hospitality, attractions, digital marketing or destination management, this is a chance to connect with like-minded professionals and take away new ideas to support your career journey. 

Event details 

  • 📅 Date: Tuesday 30 September, 09:30 – 11:30 
  • 📍 Venue: The Garden @ Kimpton Hotel, Charlotte Square, Edinburgh 
  • 🎟 Tickets: £10 members | £15 non-members 

Spaces are limited, so early booking is advised. 

👉 Book your ticket now

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WIT Autumn series kicks off with Glasgow networking morning

Women in Tourism (WIT) is heading to Glasgow this September as part of our Autumn series – and you’re invited! 

Join us on Tuesday 23rd September for a relaxed morning of connection and conversation at The Western Club on Royal Exchange Square. Whether you’re working in digital marketing, guest services, events, housekeeping or hotel management – this WIT event is open to everyone in tourism and hospitality, no matter your seniority or specialism. 

From 10:30am, enjoy complimentary tea, coffee and pastries (kindly sponsored by The Western Club) before we kick off with a panel session featuring: 

  • TBC
Courtney Flynn, the Superlative Group

Courtney Flynn, the Superlative Group

Fiona Campbell, CEO Association of Scotland's Self Caterers

Fiona Campbell MBE, CEO Association of Scotland’s Self Caterers

Each speaker will share what it means to be a woman working in tourism today, why WIT matters, and how we can continue supporting each other across the industry. 

💬 Our Chair, Lesley Williams, will open the event and give everyone a warm Women in Tourism welcome. 

This is the first event in our WIT Autumn series, and we hope you’ll be part of it. 

Event details:
📍 Tuesday 23 September 2025
📍 10:30am – 12:30pm
📍 The Western Club, Glasgow 

Spaces are free but limited – reserve your place now. 

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WIT conference: the power of your networks

Join us in Edinburgh’s EICC on Friday 21 March for a really exciting panel looking at the power of your networks and how they can support your ambitions.  This panel will discuss what we as an industry seek from our netowrks, and what the biggest challenges and opportunities are.

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WIT Conference: Kate Nicholls OBE announced as keynote speaker

We are absolutely delighted to announce Kate Nicholls OBE as the keynote speaker at the 2025 Women in Tourism conference!  A powerhouse in the industry, Kate has been an advocate for those working across hospitality and tourism throughout her career.

Read more

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