Exploring Gothic Tourism: A new form of urban tourism?

Abstract

Purpose: The concept of ‘Gothic tourism’ has recently been proposed within the discipline of English Literature. Such tourism is claimed to be a distinct form of special interest tourism grounded in familiarity with the Gothic, distinctive aesthetics, and experiences of frights and scares. It is increasingly common in towns and cities around the world. This paper examines and critiques the concept of Gothic tourism, and considers its similarities with existing forms of urban tourism. Design/Methodology/Approach: This is a conceptual paper and no empirical data is presented. Findings: Gothic tourism is not as clearly differentiated from other forms of tourism as has been claimed. In particular Gothic tourism can be conceptualised as a particular form of ‘lighter’ dark tourism, but it can also be considered as a form of literary tourism. A conceptual model is presented which places Gothic tourism as the nexus of dark and literary tourism. Research limitations: This study is a conceptual exploration of Gothic tourism. Further empirical research is required to test the ideas presented in this paper at established Gothic tourism attractions. Originality: This study examines the recently-proposed (but little-researched) concept of Gothic tourism and considers its relationships with other forms of special interest tourism. It also illustrates the broader issue of how typologies of special interest tourism do not necessarily correspond with the motives and experiences of tourists themselves, or of the providers of tourist experiences.