TOURISM in the North East is on the same level as other regions, if not better, according to the chief of VisitEngland.
In an interview with The Chronicle, the interim-chief of England's tourist board, Fiona Pollard, said the tourism on offer in the North East rivalled other regions but believed there was potential to grow its tourism industry.
She also said it was important to ensure its tourism industry was sustainable.
The Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) announced the North East as the pilot for its Destination Development Partnership in November 2022, with a £2.25 million fund focused on developing new initiatives to attract visitors and investment into the visitor economy.
Andrew Fox, chair of Visit Northumberland, said: "Northumberland is a staggering holiday destination which is a hidden gem in comparison to some, often overrun, UK holiday spots.
"You can find yourself completely alone on one of the most breathtaking beaches you've ever seen on our coast, then explore miles of barely-trodden landscapes in one of the quietest National Parks in the UK, and these attributes are reflected in the ambitions of our Destination Management Plan to support the sustainable development of the county's tourism offer.
"All of this is within easy reach of Newcastle city centre for fantastic foodie experiences and shopping, and County Durham for fascinating history and more incredible coastline."
Operations and marketing director at Kielder Observatory, Hannah Matterson, said: "Every year, more than 20,000 people make their way to our remote attraction under the dark skies of the beautiful Northumberland countryside.
"While Northumberland is renowned for its stunning beaches and historical castles and buildings, it is at Kielder Observatory where they can be struck by the magic of the night sky and receive their own moment of inspiration which will stay with them long after they leave the North East.”
Claire Thorburn, wife of Francis Watson-Armstrong, the owner of Bamburgh Castle, said: "Northumberland really does have it all. Exceptional unspoilt beaches and countryside along with world-class attractions like Bamburgh Castle which is currently starring on big screens worldwide in the latest Indiana Jones film and has secured global fame as the real Kingdom of Bebbanburg in the hit Netflix series, The Last Kingdom.
"Anchoring it all is our extraordinary history and the genuine warmth and friendliness North East England is loved for."
Wil Cheung, resident stargazer at The Twice Brewed Observatory and Planetarium, said: "Northumberland's International Dark Sky Park with its most pristine skies is the largest in the UK.
"We understand not only the importance of protecting the dark skies but to celebrate them by taking time to look up and learn about the wonder of the universe.
"As an astro-tourism business at The Twice Brewed, we recognise how unique it is to be located within the International Dark Skies Park and to offer accommodation, stargazing and an immersive planetarium experience alongside a welcoming pub with great food and an award-winning brewery too.
"We welcome any opportunities to highlight our impressive offer and look forward to inviting more and more people to enjoy it," Wil said.
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