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North East REGION - Tourism/Tourism Photos/How do we do in the Tourism Stakes? (All Sub-Forum Areas)

53K views 154 replies 19 participants last post by  Ken O'Heed 
#1 · (Edited by Moderator)
I visited Durham a couple of days ago and it was quite interesting to compare a few things. As a place, it was like a cross between a large Beverley and a small York. Some good picturesque views, but the demographic of people seemed to be almost split into thirds of: eldery tourists, students and then trackie-wearing types.

It came across as quite small for a city, and according to wiki, it's population is around the 42,000 mark. So I found it strange that it had shops that Hull doesn't have, or couldn't keep... such as: Wittards of Chelsea, Jack Wills, Paperchase, Slug & Lettuce and Yates'.

I visited a few places before going to Durham and everywhere I went, there seemed a lot of effort to promote the area and promote Durham as a tourist destination, but I found once I'd got there, once you've been to the castle, the river and the cathedral as well as looked around the shops and popped to a cafe, there isn't a lot all else to do in the city itself (most other things to do are in the wider region), especially when compared to the amount of things you can do in Hull as a tourist, more of which is free. Yet there seemed to be a lot more tourists walking around than you ever see walking around in Hull.

So, it begs the question - instead of focussing on spending money trying to boost shopping, should we instead be spending more money trying to attract extra tourists? As I'm guessing those shops mentioned have opened up in Durham due to tourism numbers? So, by attracting more tourists, you attract more retailers, and by attracting more retailers, you attract more shoppers.

What I mean is that, in Hull, there are quite a lot of stands (I even think there is one in Hull City Hall) full of leaflets promoting York and Leeds. I don't imagine (and can't imagine ever seeing any) that there are stands full of leaflets in York and Leeds promoting Hull and East Yorkshire. Most of Hull's promotion seems to be aimed in Hull, why isn't some of the promtion aimed at Beverley, Driffield, Bridlington, York, Doncaster and Leeds?

All the towns and villages I stopped off at in Durham seemed to all promote the likes of: Durham, County Durham, Newcastle, Gateshead, Hartlepool, Middlesbrough, Darlington and then lots of promotion for the Lake District and the Yorkshire Moors and Dales too. You don't seem to see any promotion for Hull until you actually get into Hull, other than promotion for The Deep - that seems to be everywhere. If The Deep can do it well, why can't the city/region?


For any of the readers from the other North-East sub-forums, it'd be good to see your viewpoints RE: the North-East's efforts on tourism, as you're in amongst it all the time. And as an opinion on Durham, although there could be more to do, I really enjoyed it as a day out. The only thing that lets it down is that horrible shopping centre development on the riverside - The Gates.
Durham as a county is really nice, lots to see and do and the roads are soo much better than in the East Riding - almost everywhere you go is dualled, meaning the destination time is short - which is always a good thing.
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#2 ·
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For any of the readers from the other North-East sub-forums, it'd be good to see your viewpoints RE: the North-East's efforts on tourism, as you're in amongst it all the time.

The above post by Dazzar86, was originally posted on the Hull and Humber Forum.

In view of Dazzar's question in his post (quoted above) I thought this was a good subject for a discussion thread, here on the "North East Communal Area Forum".

So, how do the respective forum areas think they are doing in terms of attracting tourists?
 
#3 ·
North East attractions dominate tourism awards
by Andrew Glover, The Journal, May 24th 2012


VISITOR attractions and hotels from around the North East dominate the latest Visit England tourism awards. Newcastle’s Great North Museum, Beamish in County Durham and the Rockliffe Hall Hotel and Golf Spa Resort near Darlington all won gold at the UK tourism board’s Awards for Excellence 2012 and adding to the North East’s success, The Tall Ships, held in Hartlepool in 2010, won the Best Tourism Event.

Sarah Stewart, chief executive at tourism body Newcastle Gateshead Initiative (NGI) was delighted with the amount of recognition the region received and paid tribute to all the winners. She said: “Their collective achievement is testament to the North East’s continued strength as a destination for tourism with some truly stand-out attractions and hotels.

The Great North Museum received gold in the Access for All Tourism category. Head of museums Helen White said: “We are delighted to have won this award, particularly as it is so important to be recognised at a national level alongside such prestigious organisations. “Since we opened in 2009, the museum has gone from strength to strength with over 1.7m visitors enjoying a variety of exhibitions and events. We continue to strive to maintain the standards expected from our ‘Great’ name.”


Read More - http://www.journallive.co.uk/north-...-tourism-awards-61634-31034918/#ixzz1vm0z6Vg2
 
#4 ·
A Fantastic Week to Build Upon
Newcastles of the World Website, July 31st 2012



Well, 90 delegates from 12 different Newcastles – the most ever – had a great week in Newcastle upon Tyne.

We committed to a stronger alliance of Newcastles, a virtual tourism “passport” (a mutually supportive tourism initiative) and to build upon the links now established between artists, business people, schools and youth councils.

Subject to confirmation by their councils, we have invited Newcastle, Ontario, Canada to host our next gathering in 2014, then Nové Hrady, Czech Republic in 2016 and Shinshiro City in 2018, marking the 20th anniversary of the first summit which took place in that city.

Some Memories . . .










Source - http://newcastlesoftheworld.wordpress.com/

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#5 ·
Tourists bring in £1.3bn for North East economy
by Ruth Lognonne, The Journal, August 16th 2012


RISING NUMBERS OF TOURISTS brought £1.26bn into the North East economy last year, despite difficult economic conditions, with that figure set to rise again in 2012. New figures from NewcastleGateshead Initiative, the agency tasked with promoting the area to visitors, revealed that 1.7 million visitors stayed overnight in the neighbouring city and town, an increase of 5% on 2010. Meanwhile, overnight visitor spend rose by 2% to £360m.

Live music such as Westlife and Katy Perry at the Arena and the RSC at the refurbished Theatre Royal helped tourism beat the slump last year, with Olympics football and Newcastle United helping to continue the trend this year. Sarah Stewart, chief executive of NewcastleGateshead Initiative, said: “Tourism is hugely important to the area and generated £1.26bn in 2011 alone. It is fantastic to see that despite an increasingly difficult economic environment, and some poor weather conditions, the sector continues to grow.

“There’s loads to see in NewcastleGateshead, from on-going festivals to large-scale music concerts and a fantastic arts and theatre programme. We saw a huge surge of visitors to the area during the Olympics when the football was on at St James' Park." The report shows employment in the area’s tourism industry has increased by 2%, with the number of employees across the sector now reaching 18,321. 2011 saw four more new hotels open in NewcastleGateshead, and another two (Hotel Indigo and Ramada Encore) open in early 2012.


Read More - http://www.nebusiness.co.uk/busines...-1-3bn-for-north-east-economy-51140-31632775/
 
#6 ·
North East tourism firms issue 'do not ignore us' plea
by Brian Daniel, The Journal, August 20th 2012


TOURISM leaders last night warned the North East is in danger of becoming England’s “forgotten cousin” as efforts to promote the region flounder. Northumberland tourism firms have called on Culture Secretary Jeremy Hunt to ensure the region gets a “fair share of the pie” following the announcement of a £2m investment in a campaign advertising Britain as a holiday destination. Jeff Sutheran, chairman of the North Northumberland Tourism Association, is to seek the backing of county MPs amid concerns the South and London will dominate the fund.

A recent advertising campaign, Mr Sutheran said, failed to promote “anywhere North of Bridlington.” He added that a Government-backed internet Twitter account pushes only attractions in the South and London.

Tourism underpins much of the North East economy, making up about 12% of Northumberland’s pay packets with around 11,000 people in the county employed in the industry. Mr Sutheran, whose association represents around 130 small tourism businesses, has voiced concerns on the back of the Government’s “Holiday at Home” advertising campaign. The tourism chairman, who runs award winning St Cuthbert’s House bed and breakfast at Seahouses with wife Jill, claimed the £5m VisitEngland campaign failed to push the county or the North East as a whole.

“We were extremely disappointed that, despite having been designated as a Destination Of Distinction by VisitBritain, the recent celebrity-driven advertising campaign made no mention of Northumberland or indeed anywhere else north of Bridlington."


Read More - http://www.journallive.co.uk/north-...-ignore-us-plea-61634-31658735/#ixzz244TbUfYm
 
#7 ·
David Cameron slated for abolishing Tourism Minister post
by Kim Swan, The Journal, September 7th 2012


DAVID Cameron has come under fire after he abolished the post of Tourism Minister. The Prime Minister sacked the man responsible for the sector, John Penrose, in his Government reshuffle, merging the post with the two remaining junior positions at the Department for Culture, Media and Sport.

Tourism groups have said the move sends a damaging signal, adding that the PM previously said the Olympics should be used as a catalyst for increasing tourism.

In the North East, the tourism industry is estimated to be worth well over £1bn to the regional economy, with more than 30,000 jobs dependent upon visitors to the region. The industry received a major funding blow in 2010 when the Coalition scrapped the development agency One North East, bringing the axe down on the successful national advertising campaign Passionate People, Passionate Places.


Read More - http://www.journallive.co.uk/north-...ng-tourism-post-61634-31786721/#ixzz25m0gjW9G
 
#8 ·
I live in Whitehaven in Cumbria now and for all the town is on the edge of the county, the Maritime Festival attracts thousands of visitors and a big rugby league match can pull in 500 away fans.
Also a number of music festivals attract 10-20,000 fans. Last year the Radio 1 Big Weekend at Carlisle Airport attracted 40,000 fans to see the Foo Fighters and Lady Gaga and every year there's Solfest, The Maryport Blues Festival, **** Rock at Cockermouth and Kendal Calling.
 
#9 ·
Port of Tyne's best cruise season on record#
by Iain Laing, The Journal, October 11th 2012


A RECORD number of cruise ship visits have been made to Tyneside this year, bringing around 80,000 people to the North East on holiday and business. The Port of Tyne announced that it had 36 cruise calls since April – 80% up on the previous year – at its port’s International Passenger Terminal in North Shields and it already has 34 cruise visits booked for next year. Andrew Moffat, chief executive of Port of Tyne, said: “Success in the cruise and ferry business is especially significant in terms of the positive economic impact on the local area, supporting tourism-related businesses and sustaining in excess of 1,800 jobs in the tourism sector. “Last year the port was recognised by travel website CruiseCritic.com as the UK’s Best Port of Call, so it’s great to be able to celebrate that during our best cruise season on record.”

Almost half of the cruise ship’s calling at the port were “turnaround” cruises, meaning more passengers than ever were able to start their holiday from the Port of Tyne – and for the first time to Mediterranean destinations. The other half were transit cruises, welcoming visitors from all over the world to North East. Over the past seven months the port has also welcomed new customers including MSC, Seabourn, Swan Hellenic, Peter Deilmann and the return of Thomson. And next year it’s set to welcome more new customers in Hurtigruten, Crystal Cruises and the return of Hapag-Lloyd. Bill Gibbons, director of the Passenger Shipping Association, said: “In less than 10 years the port has transformed its business from no cruise ships to a record number of calls and is fast becoming one of the UK’s busiest regional ports for cruise passengers.”


Read More - http://www.nebusiness.co.uk/busines...-best-cruise-season-on-record-51140-32009608/
 
#10 ·
Port of Tyne's best cruise season on record#
by Iain Laing, The Journal, October 11th 2012


A RECORD number of cruise ship visits have been made to Tyneside this year, bringing around 80,000 people to the North East on holiday and business. The Port of Tyne announced that it had 36 cruise calls since April – 80% up on the previous year – at its port’s International Passenger Terminal in North Shields and it already has 34 cruise visits booked for next year. Andrew Moffat, chief executive of Port of Tyne, said: “Success in the cruise and ferry business is especially significant in terms of the positive economic impact on the local area, supporting tourism-related businesses and sustaining in excess of 1,800 jobs in the tourism sector. “Last year the port was recognised by travel website CruiseCritic.com as the UK’s Best Port of Call, so it’s great to be able to celebrate that during our best cruise season on record.”

Almost half of the cruise ship’s calling at the port were “turnaround” cruises, meaning more passengers than ever were able to start their holiday from the Port of Tyne – and for the first time to Mediterranean destinations. The other half were transit cruises, welcoming visitors from all over the world to North East. Over the past seven months the port has also welcomed new customers including MSC, Seabourn, Swan Hellenic, Peter Deilmann and the return of Thomson. And next year it’s set to welcome more new customers in Hurtigruten, Crystal Cruises and the return of Hapag-Lloyd. Bill Gibbons, director of the Passenger Shipping Association, said: “In less than 10 years the port has transformed its business from no cruise ships to a record number of calls and is fast becoming one of the UK’s busiest regional ports for cruise passengers.”
End of the cruise season today, two for the price of one in the Tyne with both the ships Boudica and MSC Lirica paying visits. Indeed Boudica has just left the Port having come in at 03.00 this morning with Lirica due out at 16.00.

Good to read that there are new operators destined for the Tyne next year and now all we need is the reinstatement of a scheduled route to Scandinavia.
 
#11 ·
New boy says Geordie Shore has boosted Tourist Economy
by Coreena Ford, Sunday Sun, November 4th 2012


CONTROVERSIAL TV show Geordie Shore has boosted North East tourism and helped to plough millions into the economy. That’s the bold claim from the reality show’s newest cast member – and amazingly tourism bosses AGREE. The MTV show returns for a fourth outing this week, despite the last three series causing a national outcry for its booze-fuelled debauchery – and the new series promises more of the same.

Newbie cast member Daniel Thomas-Tuck, 20, of Barnard Castle, County Durham, says thousands of tourists flock to the North to savour a slice of their lifestyle, giving the economy a welcome boost. He said: “While some people say it brings Newcastle, actually down we have helped tourism, it has brought around £10m in tourism to Newcastle – it really has gone up massively because people watch it and then want to come here and have the Geordie Shore experience. People love Newcastle nightlife because of what they have seen on the show, because it’s a laugh and a great place to go out."

Sarah Stewart, chief executive of NewcastleGateshead Initiative said: “Geordie Shore will undoubtedly have raised the profile of NewcastleGateshead’s award-winning nightlife. A TripAdvisor poll in 2010 named Newcastle as the third best place for nightlife in Europe, behind London and Berlin, so it’s no surprise the producers of the show continue to want to film here. Nightlife is a popular reason why many visitors choose to come here and we should not be ashamed of that."


Read More (Two Pages) - http://www.sundaysun.co.uk/news/nor...die-shore-has-boosted-economy-79310-32162058/
 
#12 ·
Antony Gormley presents National Lottery Award
to the Baltic Centre for Contemporary Art

National Lottery Press release, 13th November 2012


Renowned ‘Angel of the North’ artist, Antony Gormley, today made a surprise visit to BALTIC Centre for Contemporary Art in Gateshead to present the gallery with a National Lottery Award for Best Arts Project. BALTIC won the public vote to be crowned the UK’s favourite arts project in this year’s Awards - the annual search to find the nation’s favourite Lottery-funded projects.

One of the UK’s most loved artists, Mr Gormley was delighted to highlight the nation’s appreciation for the popular gallery which has welcomed over 4.5million visitors since it first opened ten years ago. Mr Gormley said: “Winning this National Lottery Award is fantastic recognition for all those involved in running BALTIC. National Lottery players should feel proud that they have funded such a vibrant cultural venue.

BALTIC has played a major part in the regeneration of the north east, boosting tourism and positively shaping local identity”. BALTIC started life as a derelict flour mill on the banks of the River Tyne in Gateshead and thanks to National Lottery funding it was transformed into one of the world’s largest contemporary art spaces.


Read More - http://www.balticmill.com/documents/view/1f4d8059545353a48261e5a93e8da7e2
 
#13 ·
North East rallies round to put on Tourism Awards event
The Journal, December 19th 2012


THE shortlist has been announced for the Tourism Awards, saved from the closure of the North East’s regional development agency. Businesses and individuals from across the region have volunteered their time and services to help organise the awards, with the NewcastleGateshead Initiative taking the lead after previous organisers One North East was closed down.

The North East England Tourism Awards will take place on January 31st at The Sage Gateshead to honour the achievements of venues, attractions hotels and service providers working in the tourism industry. Winners will then have the chance to compete against those from other regions across the country at the VisitEngland Awards for Excellence in 2013.

Sarah Stewart, chief executive at NewcastleGateshead Initiative, said: “Taking on the awards has been an incredibly rewarding project. They are an important platform and give our tourism businesses the opportunity to celebrate their achievements – the region has a lot to offer visitors and we feel very strongly that this should be recognised with businesses congratulated on the fantastic services and experiences they deliver.

The tourism economy supports more than 65,000 jobs across the North East and contributes an estimated £4.2bn to the local economy annually.


Read More - http://www.journallive.co.uk/north-...sm-awards-event-61634-32455098/#ixzz2FUEYr5IP
 
#14 ·
Northumberland tourist numbers hit by last year's rain
by Adrian Pearson, The Journal, January 10th 2013


THE COUNTY OF NORTHUMBERLAND’s tourism industry lost nearly one third of its visitors last year as the continued downpour kept families away. National Park chief executive Tony Gates revealed the figures when putting the case for rural communities to the House of Commons environment and rural affairs select committee yesterday. He told the committee: “Tourism is the single biggest area of the economy of the County, with the greatest potential. If we look at the economic contribution nationally we are talking £6bn, a significant contribution.

Asked if he thought 'perceptions' of the rainy weather contributed to this, Mr Gates said: “Yes, but I think we would accept it has to be of the offer. When we do research into why people don’t visit one of the barriers is the risk. People think the weather could be a big risk. We know there is stuff to do here if it rains and we need to look at that and see where we can enhance that. We have plans for a large landscape centre in the Hadrian’s Wall area."


Read More - http://www.journallive.co.uk/north-...ast-year-s-rain-61634-32578191/#ixzz2HZ37UaUR
 
#15 ·
Olympics hailed for boosting tourism in the North East
by Sarah Scott, The Journal, January 19th 2013


Photo posted on this forum by - clash01

THE Olympics brought the North East a multi-million- pound tourism and business boost, a new report has revealed. Figures from the NewcastleGateshead Initiative reveal that the London 2012 events boosted the region’s tourism economy by more than £7m, while firms with contracts related to the games won £150m worth of trade.

During the London 2012 Olympic Games, Newcastle was one of six Olympic Football venues, with matches being held at St James’ Park. Approximately 127,000 people attended Olympic football in the city, contributing over £7m to the region’s economy. Sarah Stewart, chief executive of the destination management and marketing agency, said the Olympics had been a great success in putting Newcastle on the world stage. “It was a fantastic opportunity for us to be able to showcase what NewcastleGateshead had to offer,” she said.


Read More - http://www.journallive.co.uk/north-...m-in-north-east-61634-32634455/#ixzz2IQ2rsfvE
 
#16 ·
Hadrian’s Wall Trust gets cash grant to
make the most of tourism

by Tony Henderson, The Journal, February 13th 2013


A CASH boost has been given to the development of eco-tourism around Hadrian’s Wall. The £589,000 Rural Development Programme for England (RDPE) grant to the Hadrian’s Wall Trust will help projects in north and west Cumbria. It covers tourism activity incorporating nature and wildlife, walking and cycling, local produce and accommodation, all linked to the Hadrian’s Wall Country brand.

The trust, which is based in Hexham, has set up a satellite office in Maryport and a new post of project manager has been created to lead work with local businesses. Rural Affairs Minister Richard Benyon said: “Hadrian’s Wall is a great place to experience our countryside. We want to help aspiring local businesses and this grant will help them make the most of the opportunities brought to the area by thousands of visitors every year.

“Our heritage sites and countryside are a real draw for holidaymakers and sightseers. There is a big opportunity to grow the rural economy through tourism.” Linda Tuttiett, chief executive of the Hadrian’s Wall Trust said: “The 150-mile Hadrian’s Wall world heritage site is the whole of the Roman frontier zone – including the Roman coastal defences at Ravenglass, Whitehaven, Workington, Maryport and Bowness-on-Solway, and the western end of Hadrian’s Wall.”


Read More - http://www.journallive.co.uk/north-...most-of-tourism-61634-32798299/#ixzz2KlsYfyIl
 
#17 ·
Northumberland tourism drive could create 800 new jobs
by David Black, The Journal, March 13th 2013


ALMOST 800 new jobs could be created in Northumberland over the next three years under “challenging” plans to further grow the county’s vital visitor industry, it is claimed. Tourism already ploughs about £706m a year into the county’s economy, and in 2011 visitor numbers hit 9.1m – a 2% increase on the previous year.

Now officials at Northumberland Tourism, supported by the county council, have set a target of achieving a further 6% growth in the visitor economy between now and 2016. That would generate an additional £42m in visitor spending power for the local economy, and create an extra 795 jobs, it is claimed. Officials admit that the targets are challenging, but say tourism is critical to Northumberland and continues to offer a great opportunity for the county. Five months ago VisitEngland announced that Northumberland is now the third most loved holiday destination in England, raising hopes that this can be converted into real benefits for the local economy. The targets are set out in a report to county councillors next week, which also outlines how the authority will support Northumberland Tourism’s business plan aim of a 6% growth in the visitor economy.

Yesterday Jeff Sutheran, who chairs the North Northumberland Tourism Association, said the visitor industry had been through a difficult time since funding from One NorthEast evaporated, and the strategic marketing role of Northumberland Tourism was “absolutely imperative”.


Read More - http://www.journallive.co.uk/north-...st-800-new-jobs-61634-32978596/#ixzz2NPYmmDPU
 
#18 ·
Tourism campaign to encourage visitors to the North East
by Ruth Lawson, The Journal, March 16th 2013


BOOSTING TOURISM in the North East of England, will be at the top of the agenda this week as a campaign gets under way to encourage people to visit the region. As English Tourism Week begins, North East tourist boards are gearing up to showcase attractions on offer with discounts and deals. The Newcastle Falcons mascot – Flash the Falcon – stepped out in Hotel Indigo to launch NewcastleGateshead Initiative’s (NGI) drive as part of the national campaign, organised by VisitEngland. The hotel is one of scores of businesses offering “Discover Deals”.

Sarah Stewart, chief executive of NGI, said: “Tourism is an incredibly important part of Newcastle-Gateshead’s economy, worth an estimated £1.26bn annually and employing more than 18,000 people. I am delighted so many of our partners wanted to be involved in celebrating the destination’s tourism offer, by providing an exclusive Discover Deal for English Tourism Week. The selection of deals available showcases the variety of visitor experiences on offer in NewcastleGateshead, and North East England. We would encourage visitors to make the most of these fantastic deals by discovering the many attractions and experiences right here on their doorstep. Discover Deals and English Tourism Week provides the perfect opportunity to do just that.”

Similar celebrations will be seen in Northumberland where today and tomorrow the annual Residents’ Festival is taking place, which offers reduced or free entry to 26 local attractions for people who live in Northumberland. This is part of a three-year plan to increase tourism in Northumberland by 6%, resulting in £32m being spent in the county.


Read More - http://www.journallive.co.uk/north-...s-to-north-east-61634-32999516/#ixzz2Nh4fWguT
 
#19 ·
Visitors to the North East fall as tourism publicity dries up
by Adrian Pearson, The Journal, May 21st 2013


OVERSEAS visits to the North East have dropped amid fears the region’s £3.5bn tourism economy is suffering from a cut in global marketing. Latest Government figures released today showed the North East welcomed 427,000 visitors over the last year, down nearly 60,000. Across the region more than 43,000 people are thought to be employed in the tourist sector, with another 10,000 in the supply chain dependant upon healthy visitor numbers.

In Newcastle, visitor numbers were also down, with figures from Visit Britain suggesting a 20,000 drop. Since 2010 the region has had to cope with cuts to the funding behind the successful Passionate People, Passionate Places marketing campaign. Added to this, tourism chiefs say, is a washout summer last year and the ongoing economic difficulties facing the UK.

Last night Durham MP Helen Goodman, who is on Labour’s shadow culture team, said decisions by the coalition Government to scrap the regional development agency’s campaign were contributing to a difficult time for the industry. The 2010 decision stopped the spending in 2011, meaning 2012’s figures are the first to reflect the reduced funding. Ms Goodman told The Journal: “It is no coincidence that the significant drop in tourist numbers occurred the year after that funding from One North East ended. This is yet more evidence that the Conservative-led government was wrong to abolish One North East and replace it with a successor body that splits our region in two.”


Read More - http://www.journallive.co.uk/north-...licity-dries-up-61634-33359704/#ixzz2TuZmY5lo
 
#20 ·
Bamburgh Castle voted a top 10 picnic accolade
by David Black, The Journal, May 29th 2013


The beach and castle at Bamburgh

LONG renowned as an iconic image of Northumberland’s historic treasures and majestic coastline, Bamburgh Castle already plays a key role in helping to lure tourists and their vital spending power to the region. Now the imposing seaside fortress has the national spotlight trained on it once again – after being voted as one of the 10 best places in Britain to enjoy a picnic.

Bamburgh Castle – together with its surrounding green spaces and nearby beach and sand dunes – is included in the official top 10 spots for al fresco dining. The accolade, following an internet survey in which more than 10,000 people nominated their favourite picnic spots, recognises the castle as “an idyllic lunch spot for all the family to enjoy and watch the world go by.” It pays tribute to the area’s outstanding local beauty and scenic views.

The 10 best picnic spots have been chosen by members of the public after the survey was launched by bread makers Kingsmill, in partnership with tourism agencies VisitEngland and Visit Wales, to encourage more people to enjoy lunch outdoors. “Bamburgh Castle is a magnificent tourism asset and I would think 90% of the guests we get would walk that beautiful three-mile stretch of beach between Seahouses and Bamburgh. There could be no more dramatic and inspiring place to sit and have a picnic than Bamburgh Castle. It’s also great that, once again, Northumberland is being singled out as among the best places in Britain.”


Read More - http://www.journallive.co.uk/north-...picnic-accolade-61634-33398861/#ixzz2UfcBEjUY
 
#21 ·
Durham Cathedral is voted top UK landmark
by Ruth Lawson, The Journal, June 26th 2013


TOURISTS from across the world have ranked Durham Cathedral as the UK’s best landmark. The building, which towers over the City of Durham, took the top spot in the TripAdvisor Travellers’ Choice awards beating the Tower of London and Houses of Parliament. It was also placed 20th in the list of favourite European landmarks making it a double celebration for the cathedral.

Ruth Robson, head of marketing and events, welcomed the news which comes as another boost to the site that will next week be welcoming the long-awaited return of the Lindisfarne Gospels. Ms Robson said: “We are delighted that it is hailed as the UK’s number one landmark building in the inaugural TripAdvisor’s Travellers’ Choice Attractions awards. We do follow what visitors say on TripAdvisor and appreciate comments good or bad as we strive to be a place of welcome to all who come."

“Durham Cathedral is held with affection by many people, both in the North East of England and worldwide. It is a very special place and whatever prompts a visit, people always appreciate the spirituality and sense of place that the cathedral emulates. It is a grand example of Norman architecture."


Read More - http://www.journallive.co.uk/north-...top-uk-landmark-61634-33527664/#ixzz2XJGGLDJG
 
#22 ·
Tourists boost business in Newcastle and Gateshead

From today's Journal Live. copyright NCJMedia Ltd @ http://www.thejournal.co.uk/news/north-east-news/tourists-boost-business-newcastle-gateshead-5710898

Tourists boost business in Newcastle and Gateshead


By Sonia Sharma - 13th August 2013


Fans at St James Park for the first Olympic football match in Newcastle

A big jump in tourists coming to Tyneside was worth more than £400m to the local economy.

Figures from the marketing agency NewcastleGatestead Initiative show that 1.9 million people spent a total of 4.3 million nights in the area during 2012, contributing £404m to the economy – an increase of 8% from 2011.

Experts say high-profile events, such as Olympic football at St James’ Park and a number of big conferences, helped to boost business.

Sarah Stewart, chief executive at NewcastleGateshead Initiative, said: “Despite economically challenging times the area continues to offer stand-out experiences for visitors, from events like EAT! which again takes place later this month, to our world-famous nightlife and a retail and food offer.

“This is a great boost for the economy as well as great news for everyone working in the tourism industry. As well as football, we also hosted the Olympic torch, with a spectacular event that saw Bear Grills zip wire from the Tyne Bridge.

“The summer buzz around the Olympics allowed us to showcase the place as a vibrant and exciting destination, famous for our friendly welcome and inspiring festivals.

“These figures are testament to the success of last year’s Olympic summer, as well as our annual festivals and conferences, which reinforce our reputation for delivering major events.”

As well as an annual programme of events, including the Juice Festival and the New Year’s Eve Winter Carnival, last year also saw a string of high-profile meetings held in the area.

The Sage Gateshead hosted the Liberal Democrat Spring Conference in March, completing a hat-trick of political party conferences, while Newcastle Civic Centre welcomed the National Union of Journalists in October.

Read more @ http://www.thejournal.co.uk/news/north-east-news/tourists-boost-business-newcastle-gateshead-5710898

This was the full Press Release from NGI @ http://www.newcastlegateshead.com/m...rs-boost-business-to-buck-economic-trend-a233

City-breakers boost business to buck economic trend

12th August 2013

Categories: Convention Bureau News

A packed calendar of festivals and events last year, including Olympic Football at St James’ Park, has cemented NewcastleGateshead’s reputation as a city-break destination of choice, with new figures showing 14% more people stayed overnight in 2012.

Estimated using the Scarborough Tourism Economic Activity Model (STEAM), the figures released today shows a significant increase in the value and volume of overnight visitors. 1.9m people (up by 200,000 compared to 2011) spent a total of 4.3 million nights in NewcastleGateshead in 2012 (up 5%), contributing £404m to the local economy (up 8%).

Sarah Stewart, chief executive at destination management and marketing organisation, NewcastleGateshead Initiative, said: “Despite economically challenging times NewcastleGateshead continues to offer stand-out experiences for visitors, from events like EAT! which again takes place later this month, to our world-famous nightlife and a retail and food offer that continues to attract investment. This is a great boost for the local economy as well as great news for everyone working in the tourism industry. ”

Damon Roberts, joint chair of the North East Hotels Association said: “These figures are extremely positive from a hotelier perspective as the popularity of NewcastleGateshead as a destination for overnight visitors continues to grow. A varied events programme across the area helps to boost occupancy at hotels throughout the region.”

Overall the number of visitors, including those coming to NewcastleGateshead for the day, has grown significantly reaching 17.7 million people, (an increase of 1%); tourism is now worth £1.3bn to the local economy. Employment in the sector has also seen growth with 18,799 people now employed in tourism related jobs, (a rise of 2%).

Sleeperz Newcastle opened in January 2012; Javeed Anwar, head of sales and marketing at Sleeperz Hotels, commented: “The performance of our city centre Newcastle hotel reflects the positive economic impact tourism is having in NewcastleGateshead.

“In our first 12 months we welcomed over 35,000 guests and won a hat-trick of industry awards for family friendly accommodation, architectural excellence and customer satisfaction. Opening our second UK hotel in Newcastle was a great decision and our occupancy rates continue to reflect the city’s appeal as a visitor destination.”

As well as NewcastleGateshead’s annual programme of festivals and events, which features favourites like EAT!, Juice Festival and the New Year’s Eve Winter Carnival, 2012 also saw a string of high-profile meetings take place.

Sage Gateshead hosted the Liberal Democrat Spring Conference in March, completing a hat-trick of political party conferences. While Newcastle Civic Centre welcomed the National Union of Journalists in October; combined, the two events attracted more than 1,850 delegates and ploughed more than £2m into the local economy.

Attractions across the destination also saw increased footfall across the year with 2.3 million visitors, (up 5% compared to 2011). The summer saw the arrival of Olympic Football on Tyneside with teams including Mexico and Brazil taking part in the London 2012 Olympic Football tournament at St James’ Park.

Sarah Stewart added: “As well as Football, we also hosted the Olympic Torch, with a spectacular event that saw Bear Grills zip wire from the Tyne Bridge. The summer buzz around Olympics allowed us to showcase the place as a vibrant and exciting destination, famous for our friendly welcome and inspiring festivals. These figures are testament to the success of last year’s Olympic summer, as well as our annual festivals and conferences, which reinforce our reputation for delivering major events.”

NewcastleGateshead Initiative is currently undertaking a face to face survey to get direct feedback from visitors about their stay and see how the experience can be made even better.

The survey, the first of its kind for three years, will provide valuable data to help understand who is currently coming to NewcastleGateshead and help shape future marketing campaigns. Partners including hotels and leisure attractions will be helping carry out the survey which will run throughout the summer.

2012 Tourism in NewcastleGateshead

• 17.7 million people visited NewcastleGateshead (up by 1%).
• Overall visitors spent 20 million days in NewcastleGateshead with a total expenditure of £1.3 billion (up by 2%).
• The destination welcomed 1.9 million overnight visitors (up by 14%).
• Overnight visitors spent 4.3 million nights in NewcastleGateshead (up by 5%).
• Overnight visitor spend £404m (up by 8%).
• Tourism directly employs 14,822 in NewcastleGateshead (up by 2%) with total employment at 18,799 (up by 2%).
 
#23 ·
Sage Gateshead to host second annual Travel Bloggers Conference

From today's Journal Live, copyright NCJMedia Ltd @ http://www.thejournal.co.uk/business/business-news/sage-gateshead-host-second-annual-5743629

Sage Gateshead to host second annual Travel Bloggers Conference

By Journal - 17th August 2013



Tyneside is hoping to get a tourism boost from hosting a conference for some of the country’s top travel writers.

The second annual Travel Bloggers Conference will be held at Sage Gateshead next February.

Brighton hosted the inaugural event in 2013 and has benefited from a series of blog posts and social media buzz following the conference.

Michael Ball, from organisers Traverse, said: “Sage Gateshead is the ideal venue for Traverse 14 because it provides a unique, creative and vibrant space, perfect for delivering an inspiring conference.

“Our attendees are used to travelling the world and seeing amazing sights so we wanted to make sure that we had a stunning venue with a great backdrop.

“With Sage Gateshead and the River Tyne we have both of those elements, while NewcastleGateshead gives us the vibrant, energy filled, fun destination we were looking for.” Among those speaking at the event will be Kash Bhattacharya, better known as the Budget Traveller, as well as Anna Silva O’Reilly, Portuguese creator of the award-winning luxury travel blog Mrs O Around the World. Both bloggers will be sharing their expertise with delegates throughout the conference program.

Sarah Stewart, chief executive of destination management and marketing organisation NewcastleGateshead Initiative, said: “The opportunity to host Traverse 14 is truly exciting. Not only is it testament to our credentials as a conference and events destination, but evidence that NewcastleGateshead is a dynamic place with a vibrant and famously friendly personality that is a constant draw for city-breakers.

Read more @ http://www.thejournal.co.uk/business/business-news/sage-gateshead-host-second-annual-5743629
 
#24 ·
Whatever happened to the England Coastal Path?

From today's Journal Live, copyright NCJMedia Ltd @ http://www.thejournal.co.uk/news/north-east-news/whatever-happened-england-coastal-path-6020334

Whatever happened to the England Coastal Path?

By The Journal - 14th September 2013



The England Coastal Path was a bold plan to create one of the world’s longest footpaths covering Britain’s entire 2,800-mile coastline. It was due to be completed by 2019 and expected to provide a major boost to the economy - like the South West Coastal Path which generates an estimated £300m a year for the West Country and supports more than 7,500 jobs.

Under the original timetable, the path was due to be extended to Northumberland and Tyne and Wear between 2013 and 2016.

But North East MPs have now demanded answers in the House of Commons amid concerns that the Government is stalling.

England has managed to build just 20 miles of coastal path since the project was announced in 2009.

And ministers have hinted that its future is uncertain. Earlier this year, environment minister Richard Benyon said the government had inherited some policies that would be extremely expensive to deliver.

The England Coastal Path was the brainchild of former environment secretary and South Shields MP David Miliband, under the last Labour Government. In 2009 the proposal was included in the Marine and Coastal Access Act.

Today, the Government officially remains committed to the project - and ministers have approved the building of two more stretches, including 22 miles of path in Cumbria and 34 miles in Yorkshire and County Durham.

But MPs say that at the current rate of progress it is difficult to see how the Government can possibly complete the work by 2019.

Read more @ http://www.thejournal.co.uk/news/north-east-news/whatever-happened-england-coastal-path-6020334
 
#25 ·
Visitors put off returning to Northumberland by prospect of turbines

From today's Journal Live, copyright NCJMedia Ltd @ http://www.thejournal.co.uk/news/no...put-returning-northumberland-prospect-6026468

Visitors put off returning to Northumberland by prospect of turbines
By Brian Daniel - 16th September 2013



An increasing number of visitors to Northumberland say they are less likely to return if more wind turbines are built in the county.

The Middleton Burn Action Group, fighting planned wind farms near Belford, conducted a survey for the second year in a row asking tourists whether those proposed turbines would impact on their likelihood of returning.

Whereas last year 64% of respondents said turbines would adversely effect their choice of North Northumberland as a holiday destination, that figure increased to 76.9% in 2013.

The action group has put the rise down to the fact that visitors “have been able to see for themselves the devastation allowed to be wrought on this beautiful area” following the erection of a number of turbines in the county over the past year.

However, a developer of one county wind farm has insisted turbines soon can become visitor attractions.

The group carried out its first survey in August and September last year asking visitors to Belford to assess the possible effect on tourism of 25 proposed wind turbines at Middleton Burn and Belford Burn. 64% said they would visit the area less often and the same percentage said they would recommend the area less often.

67% said they would stay in the area less time while 85% believed turbines would make North Northumberland “very spoilt.”

Since then, 28 engines have been erected at Middlemoor and Wandylaw.

The group decided to conduct the survey again over the same months, and the percentage of respondents who said they would visit less often rose to 76.9%, an increase of over 12%.

Read more @ http://www.thejournal.co.uk/news/no...put-returning-northumberland-prospect-6026468
 
#26 ·
Northumberland to target 'vikings' for tourism

From today's Journal Live, copyright NCJMedia Ltd @ http://www.thejournal.co.uk/news/north-east-news/northumberland-target-vikings-tourism-6250566

Northumberland to target 'vikings' for tourism
By Adrian Pearson - 29th October 2013


Sycamore tree at Hadrian's Wall

Northumberland is to target Scandinavian visitors in a new tourism pitch.

County council bosses are hoping next year they can tap into the estimated £600m travel spending power of countries from Norway to Latvia.

Council leader Grant Davey says he wants to encourage a key part of any growth in tourism to come from the Scandinavian and Baltic states and their combined populations of over 30m people.

As part of the council’s rebranding efforts more will be done to support the industry, and funding will be found to help sell Northumberland to tourists arriving in the North East through ferry services into North Shields.

The so called ‘Viking Raiders’ will be targeted as part of a wider tourism pitch which sees council publications, website, banners and campaigns all tweaked to ensure they are promoting Northumberland to foreign visitors.

Mr Davey said: “We’re keen to make sure that we can make Northumberland as attractive as possible for visitors and residents alike and we want to encourage visitors from our traditional neighbours in Scandinavia who visit Tyneside in increasing numbers to look further North into our beautiful county.

“We’ve got very strong cultural links with Scandinavia and the Baltic states and we’re going to work flat out to make sure these visitors get a chance to sample the delights of Northumberland.”

Tourism is worth some £700m a year to the county, with at least 2,000 jobs directly linked to the industry. The council has set an ambitious target of increasing trade by at least 15% in the next five years, with plans underway to work with potential partners in Norway, Sweden, Denmark, Finland, Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania and Iceland and in the Scottish Borders to develop links to promote visitor opportunities in Northumberland.

Read more @ http://www.thejournal.co.uk/news/north-east-news/northumberland-target-vikings-tourism-6250566
 
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