Record number of overnight stays at Hadrian's Wall

Posted by The Journal on Nov 28, 09 02:58 PM in News

Overnight stays in Hadrian's Wall country have hit record levels, a report next week will reveal.

Hadrian's Wall Heritage Ltd launches its annual review next week.

It shows June this year saw the highest ever levels of overnight accommodation occupancy in Hadrian's Wall Country of 80%, compared to 63% in Cumbria and the Lake District and 58% in the rest of the North East. This is a significant increase from the previous summer.

The figures for the key Roman attractions this year also reflect a general upward trend with visitor figures growing by more than 7%.

One of this year's highlights was the Living Frontier event involving 500 performers and historical re-enactors culminated in an evening pageant at Corbridge. More than 10,600 visitors attended the combined events, with a survey showing 26% had never visited Hadrian's Wall Country previously.

A total of 55% of people from outside the north of England came specifically for Living Frontier. Nearly ÃÂ£700,000 additional tourism spend was also generated by this major event.

Another major visitor boost is expected in March when the 84-mile route of Hadrian's Wall will be illuminated by hundreds of beacons.

Linda Tuttiett , chief executive of Hadrian's Wall Heritage Ltd, said: "Our annual review is a clear indication of the significant progress that has been made in Hadrian's Wall Country over the past year.

"What is clear is many more people across the UK are aware of Hadrian's Wall World Heritage Site - and more people want to come and see our incredible international asset for themselves."

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