Paths from knowledge and theory development to impact

The pathways to knowledge and theory development are important but should not become dead ends. It is also vital to create pathways from knowledge and theory development to improve the lived world of tourism. This article explores this impact side of research. It uses a rich dataset that records the impact of academics in UK universities. Its method is critical thematic analysis. It analyses the relationship between research and impact, the types and extent of impact, and its drivers. Additionally, the critical analysis digs beneath the surface of the data to move from the "what is" to discuss the "what is overlooked" and the "what could be". This leads to the envisioning of better pathways from research to impact. (c) 2023 Published by Elsevier Ltd.