At Continuum Attractions, we’re passionate about creating unforgettable experiences at some of the UK’s most loved tourist attractions. Following a recent strategic review, we’re thrilled to share our exciting growth plans and a leadership update.
We are proud to announce that long-time Continuum executive Andrew Pawson has stepped into the role of Acting Chief Executive Officer. With nearly 40 years of experience, Andrew brings a deep understanding of both our attractions and our audience. His vision is focused on expanding our portfolio and enhancing visitor engagement through innovative, data-driven, immersive technologies.
Andrew’s remit will be wide-ranging and see him take the reins of our portfolio which includes: The Real Mary King’s Close in Edinburgh (recently named TripAdvisor’s Best of the Best UK Visitor Attraction 2024), the Coronation Street Experience and Emmerdale Village Tour in partnership with ITV, The Loch Ness Centre, which opened last year as well as partnerships with others including Explorado.
Reflecting on his new role, Andrew said: “We specialise in bringing history to life and curating memorable and enjoyable experiences for our guests. I am thrilled to accept the position of acting CEO and thank the board for the confidence they have placed in me. After nearly 40 years in the business, my passion has never waned, and I look forward to the next steps in our growth journey.”
In addition to expanding and enhancing our current attractions, we’re actively exploring new opportunities. As Andrew noted, “We are looking for new attractions that could benefit from revitalisation, a fresh commercial approach, and the unique skills of our talented team. Owners can trust us to honour their brand and deliver meaningful commercial results.”
Our chair, Sue Garland-Worthington, formerly deputy CEO of British Tourism and Visit Britain, has recently joined the Group’s board. She shared her enthusiasm for our future direction: “We’re committed to investing in data-driven insights and harnessing the power of GenAI and augmented reality to enrich our storytelling. At the same time, we’ll stay true to our renowned human-led storytelling approach, ensuring every visitor leaves with a memorable experience.”
Sue leads the board alongside Judith Donovan CBE, former chair of the Eden Project, and Andrew Marsden MStJ, a respected business and brand strategist.
The new Acting CEO replaces Juliana Delaney, who has departed the business after 16 years at the helm.
Having started her long career, firstly in charge of the marketing, and then operation of the world famous Jorvik Viking Centre in York, Juliana went on to take what was a diverse group and turn it into a streamlined operator of cultural attractions across the UK.
“16 years as CEO in one company is a long stretch and now is the time to wish the team at Continuum a fond farewell and for me to move on into a different path,” said Delaney..
Amongst Delaney’s many success stories – attracting a record 980,000 visitors a year to Jorvik, welcoming a similar number over 18 months to Coronation Street The Tour in Quay Street Manchester, launching and sustaining the pre-eminent position of The Real Mary King’s Close in Edinburgh as the UK’s top attraction and leading the re-telling of the Loch Ness Monster story in 2023.
She has also held roles on destination marketing boards, acted as a Trustee for charity projects, sat on advisory boards for the government on tourism issues, also for the English department of the University of York, held roles within TEA and IAAPA and was also a Merchant Adventurer of the City of York.
“The greatest pleasure always came from seeing happy guests, but also from the amazing people I have worked alongside over the years; many of whom have gone on to build great careers in our wonderful industry,” said Delaney.
Juliana is moving on to develop a ‘portfolio’ of interests.
She leaves behind a thriving company with nine live projects, a £20 million turnover and one which employs nearly 600 team members.
The Board thanked Juliana for her many years of sterling service and wished her well for the future.
