A room full of ideas, laughter and the best kind of people
It wasn’t just the full house, or the brilliant speaker line-up, or even the AI co-host that posted on LinkedIn mid-session. It was the atmosphere. A sense that everyone was there to listen, share and build something better, together.
We welcomed around 85 people to The Crown in Blandford Forum on Wednesday 22nd October 2025. Thank you all for keeping it practical, generous and real.
From future-focused talks and live tech demos to hard conversations about housing, access, and inclusivity, the day covered more ground than we could have planned for. And somehow, it still felt like the beginning.
Professor Dimitrios Buhalis joins XP Dorset 2025 to share his vision of Smart Hospitality in the AI Era and practical lessons for operators.
Laurence Cornwall-Watkins, Managing Director at Bright Blue Day, returns to XP Dorset 2025 to reflect on his 2024 talk, share lessons learned, and bring fresh insight.
David Lakins shares what’s possible when hospitality tech connects, from direct bookings to better connections and simplified guest journeys.
Fed speaks at XP Dorset 2025 on how LoveToVisit connects guests with local experiences to help operators grow loyalty and revenue.
Andrew Holland Dorset 2025 leads a workshop on accessibility, showing why inclusion is both right and good for business.
Rob Cartwright Dorset 2025 leads a workshop on eco opportunities, showing how sustainable choices can save costs and build stronger guest trust.
Tracy will bring real examples from her work with Dress Pack Solutions, showing how thoughtful presentation helps you to stand out.
Karen Mason, My Safe Place Southern, joins XPH to share how neuro-inclusive design can help you create calm, welcoming spaces for every guest.
Our very own Dave McRobbie explores human triggers, AI’s temptation to manipulate them and what it could mean.
Julie Kemp joins us to share how Shelter still gains support even in challenging times, with lessons that resonate across hospitality.
Thank you to everyone who joined us in Dorset. The generosity in the room made the difference. People shared what worked, where they struggled and what they will try next. We left with clear actions and a few good questions to carry into next season.
Slides are now on each speaker page above. Share them with your teams, try one small change and tell us what you learn.
Next up, we bring the same spirit north and east.
Huge thanks to our partners and sponsors for backing the day and our growing community.
