Northern Powerhouse regions celebrate 'record' tourist numbers

All Northern Powerhouse regions have seen a jump in overnight stays according to new figures.

Overall visitor numbers across the whole region have increased by around five per cent in a year.

However, the highest gains in number of trips has been witnessed by the North East with over 200,000 more visitors to the area than the year before - resulting in a 17 per cent increase.

According to Visit England, in the six months to June 2018 the number of overnight stays in the Northern Powerhouse increased by 4.3 per cent to 33.6 million compared to the same period last year.

People have spent more too - a total of £2.3bn which is said to be an increase on last year’s figures.

Furthermore, the UK had one of the hottest summers on record, resulting in eight out of 10 most visited cities in England being in the Northern Powerhouse spectrum.

Northern Powerhouse minister, Jake Berry MP, said: “I’m delighted to see that thousands more people are flocking to the North to share in the culture, natural beauty and entertainment attractions.

“And it’s quite easy to see why. There’s lots going on for families thanks to investment in landmark seaside attractions like the Spanish City in Whitley Bay and the Blackpool Illuminations in Lancashire, supported by our Coastal Communities Fund.

“As people visit the Northern Powerhouse they’re spending billions of pounds too, which means more money for smaller businesses and this protects jobs. I’d encourage more people to visit the North and see for themselves why it’s such a great place to enjoy and do business.”

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