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Toon on the rise for tourists

Newcastle and Gateshead have seen one of the largest rises in overnight visitors out of all major UK destinations, with a 22% increase, according to VisitEngland figures.

As a joint destination, Newcastle and Gateshead have the second highest increase of all major UK cities and is second only to Liverpool, which saw a 28% rise - although the latter has the advantage of being named the 2008 Capital of Culture.

Andrew Dixon, NewcastleGateshead Initiative chief executive, said: “This is great news and all the more powerful in that this growth has not been affected by one particular thing, but has instead been spurred by a whole range of festivals, events and attractions, which make NewcastleGateshead such an attractive proposition.”

The Tyneside pair climbed one place to ninth in the VisitEngland annual report of the nation’s top ten most visited towns, just published. London tops the poll and saw a 12% increase in overnight stays.

Jenny McGee, Head of Strategy and Engagement, VisitEngland said: “NewcastleGateshead’s sustained progress in terms of attracting visitors from around the UK is a reflection of a strong focus on its unique qualities and friendly welcome. This is supported by a well-established hotel infrastructure that is continually growing and improving and fits into the context of an exciting festival and events programme which offers a range of activities for a wide audience of people.”

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Ruth Mitchell .