Durham-UK

Home > home_page

home_page

by

County named best destination for the second year in a row

Award presented by Mandy Hill, Dunwood Travel; Wendy Wilshere, Head of Volunteer Casting & Engagement, Kynren; Samantha Shotton, Chief Operating Officer, Beamish Museum; Brenda Alexander, Bookings Coordinator, Beamish Museum; Alex MacKenzie, Travel Trade Manager, Experience North East England; Sarah Johnson, Senior Manager, Visit County Durham; Michelle Gorman, Managing Director, Visit County Durham; Event host – Luke Kempner.

It was an incredible night for the county, as it was named Best UK Destination for the second year in a row at the prestigious Group Leisure and Travel Awards, which took place in London on 12 June. Following last year’s win, County Durham retained its title against stiff competition including London, Edinburgh, and Belfast, proving that the destination’s group travel offer rivals that of UK capital cities.

The Group Leisure & Travel Awards are among the UK’s most established honours in the group travel sector. They celebrate excellence across attractions, tour operators, museums, venues, live experiences and destinations, based on votes from readers of Group Leisure & Travel magazine. 

Also shortlisted on the night were Kynren – An Epic Tale of England, and Beamish Museum, demonstrating even further why the county is such a great destination for groups.

Visit County Durham has supported the group travel market for many years, through business support, product development, and promotion. Investment has been made in coach parking and facilities by Durham County Council and private-sector businesses, resulting in the county holding the most Coach Friendly Accreditations. And through our Discover Durham groups and travel trade consortium, we work in partnership with tourism businesses to raise the collective profile and appeal of the county, with results like this demonstrating success.

Michelle Gorman, managing director at Visit County Durham, said: “County Durham has always had an excellent group travel offer, from our world-class attractions, experiences and events, to fantastic landscapes and food and drink. Significant recent investment, including The Rising at Raby Castle, Remaking Beamish, New Hall at Locomotion, and accommodation refurbishments across the county, have strengthen our offer even further. And with two exciting new attractions set to open this summer, Kynren – The Storied Lands and The Light, we are certain that our share of this valuable market will continue to grow, supporting businesses, and providing opportunities for our residents. But this isn’t a Visit County Durham win, it’s a win for County Durham’s entire visitor economy and its passion, creativity and resilience.”

Rob Yandell, publisher of Group Leisure and Travel, added: “Our warmest congratulations go to all of this year’s winners and finalists, and to everyone across the travel trade whose dedication continues to create exceptional experiences and outstanding service for groups. The continued support of our Awards Partners, along with the enthusiasm and engagement of our readers, has once again played a vital role in the success of these awards. 

“Bringing together more than 300 guests to celebrate achievements and connect with colleagues has been a true pleasure, and we hope everyone enjoyed another memorable occasion.” 

 

Image caption left to right:
Award presented by Mandy Hill, Dunwood Travel; Wendy Wilshere, Head of Volunteer Casting & Engagement, Kynren; Samantha Shotton, Chief Operating Officer, Beamish Museum; Brenda Alexander, Bookings Coordinator, Beamish Museum; Alex MacKenzie, Travel Trade Manager, Experience North East England; Sarah Johnson, Senior Manager, Visit County Durham; Michelle Gorman, Managing Director, Visit County Durham; Event host – Luke Kempner.

by

New partnership to boost careers in low carbon energy

Main image shows an aerial view of the Dock90 wind farm, with a ship alongside. Image credit: Principle Power

We’re launching a new regional project designed to strengthen the future workforce for North East England’s growing low carbon and offshore wind industries.

The Low Carbon North: Sustainable Futures initiative is being delivered by our Careers and Enterprise team in partnership with Newcastle University and The Offshore Renewable Energy (ORE) Catapult. 

ORE Catapult is the UK’s leading technology innovation and research centre for offshore renewable energy. 

Funded through the Northern Net Zero Accelerator, the one-year programme will run from May 2026 until the end of April 2027. 

The project aims to improve graduate retention in North East England while helping businesses build the skilled workforce needed for the transition to employment in the region’s flourishing low carbon economy.  

It will also support long term regional growth by creating a model that could be expanded across the wider higher education sector. 

Supporting regional growth 

The programme will connect Durham and Newcastle students with businesses working across offshore wind, subsea industries and the wider low carbon sector. 

Virtual, employer-led group projects will give students the chance to work on real industry challenges and gain valuable experience.  

Students from a wide range of degree subjects, including Business, Finance and the Sciences are invited to take part. 

The project builds on existing links with industry partners connected to the leading offshore energy sector here in North East England.   

This will help students gain a better understanding of the real world opportunities available in the North East region. 

Helping students explore low carbon careers 

Alongside industry-based projects, the programme will include careers forums, employer panels and networking opportunities.  

These events will help students learn more about careers in low carbon industries and the skills employers are looking for. 

We also want to challenge the idea that low carbon careers are only linked to STEM subjects (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics). 

The sector needs people with a wide range of skills and experiences, from project management to communications and finance. 

Student interns from both universities will help shape the programme to make sure activities reflect what students want and need. 

Creating a lasting legacy 

The project will also support university staff and careers advisers from across North East England.  

Colleagues from five regional universities will be invited to take part in careers education events focused on the future of the low carbon sector. 

By bringing together universities, employers and students, we hope to create stronger regional partnerships that continue beyond the life of the project. 

The long-term goal is to create a tested model that improves graduate employability, supports business innovation and helps drive sustainable growth across North East England. 

Main image shows an aerial view of the Dock90 wind farm, with a ship alongside. Image credit: Principle Power

by

Acclaimed actress Charlotte Riley reflects on her time at Durham

Charlotte Riley

Charlotte Riley has enjoyed a distinguished acting career since she first discovered her love of performing at Durham University. She’s appeared in the hit TV series Peaky Blinders, starred alongside Tom Cruise in The Edge of Tomorrow and won critical acclaim for her breakout role as Cathy in a 2009 TV adaptation of Wuthering Heights. This summer she’ll star in the multi-Emmy-nominated show, Ted Lasso, alongside fellow Durham alum Nick Mohammed.

Born in Stockton-on-Tees in North East England, Charlotte studied English and linguistics at Durham. She was a member of St Cuthbert’s Society and graduated in 2003. We caught up with Charlotte to hear more about her time at Durham, the experiences that shaped her and the memories she still holds dear. 

What made you choose to study at Durham? 

Durham always had a special pull. I’d spent time there as a child and, honestly, I don’t know anybody who’s been to Durham and not been wowed by it – you’d have to be cold-hearted not to fall in love with it. The sense of history you feel as you walk along the cobbles, surrounded by ancient buildings, you feel like you’re a part of something special. Staying in the North East was also important to me, as I wanted to be close to home at the time. I loved the idea of a collegiate university in a small, beautiful city. So, Durham really resonated with me. 

You were a member of the Durham Revue, which provides a springboard for many talented performers to enjoy successful careers in the Arts. What did it mean to you? 

It was transformative. There’s this wonderful tradition at Durham of students creating their own theatre which feels incredibly empowering. With the Revue, everything was student-led: writing, performing, producing. You do the sound, the lighting, the props, everything. So, you just throw yourself in and find your feet. If you fail, it’s absolutely on your shoulders, and that’s quite terrifying and liberating all at the same time. It was the turning point for me, I think, in my decision to want to be an actor. 

Beyond the Revue and your studies, what else did you enjoy about life at Durham? 

I did a lot of musical theatre – productions like Guys and Dolls and Oklahoma – and Durham gives you the opportunity to get involved in so many different activities. There are always multiple productions and societies running at once, so you can try new things and develop skills you didn’t even know you had. The collegiate system offers a supportive, welcoming community from day one. And the city itself is unique. You can go from a peaceful, riverside walk surrounded by nature to a lively urban centre within minutes. 

As someone from the North East region, what was your experience of Durham University? 

I felt incredibly proud to be at Durham. It’s one of the most prestigious universities in the North East so I was really chuffed at getting in. Even back then the University was trying to attract more local students so there were quite a few of us there. But what I loved most was meeting people from different backgrounds from all over the country and the world. That diversity is such a big part of the Durham experience. The collegiate system really helps too. I wasn’t just mixing with people who were studying English, I was meeting people with varied interests, from all walks of life, and you quickly find your place. 

What memories of Durham still stay with you?  

It’s those small, vivid moments. Early mornings after a show, sitting on the grass by the Cathedral with friends after a night out and feeling completely in the moment. There’s something magical about being surrounded by such history while living those formative, carefree years – it creates memories that truly last. And I just loved spending time with my friends, whether that was performing, going to gigs in Newcastle, or just going out in Durham. It’s a brilliant place to grow, socially as well as academically. It really is a special place. 

by

Durham visitor economy approaches record £1.5 billion as investment and partnerships continue to drive growth

Cllr Karen Allison and Michelle Gorman, Managing Director Visit County Durham pictured at The Light in Durham City.

County Durham’s visitor economy has continued its strong upward trajectory, with the latest independent tourism figures showing visitor expenditure rising to £1.48 billion during 2025, an increase of 8% compared to the previous year, marking three consecutive years of record-breaking results for the county.

The latest STEAM* assessment also shows that 21.98 million people visited the county in 2025, up 2% on 2024, the highest visitor numbers in the North East.

Visit County Durham, Durham County Council’s tourism service, has welcomed the figures, which demonstrate the impact of sustained investment, strong partnership working, and the continued development of high-quality visitor experiences across the county.

Overnight stays, a key objective for the county’s Destination Management Organisation to ensure sustainable growth for the destination, continued to deliver significant economic value, with visitors staying longer and spending more during 2025. Staying visitor numbers increased by 1.8% to 1.67 million, while overnight visitor expenditure rose by 11.2% to £651.94 million – accounting for 44% of all visitor spending despite representing just 8% of total visits.

The figures also reflect the impact of sustained national and international marketing activity led by Visit County Durham in partnership with the county’s tourism businesses.

This success has contributed to the positive regional performance, with data showing the North East’s visitor economy also continues to grow, welcoming more than 70 million visitors in 2025, up 2.8% on the previous year.

Tourism also continues to play a significant role in supporting employment and local businesses across County Durham. The latest figures show that over 14,000 full-time equivalent jobs are now supported by the visitor economy, an increase of 2% from 2024, including 11,250 directly employed within the sector and a further 2,819 jobs supported through the wider supply chain.

ignificant investment across County Durham’s tourism, hospitality, heritage and cultural offer has helped support this continued growth. The county’s growing outdoor offer, alongside a year-round programme of festivals, events and experiences, is also helping to encourage visitors to stay longer and explore more areas of the county.

Duncan Peake, Chair of Visit County Durham and CEO of Raby Estates, said: “These latest figures reflect the strength and resilience of County Durham’s visitor economy and demonstrate the positive impact of continued investment and collaboration across the sector. Tourism plays an important role in supporting jobs, businesses and communities across the county, and it is encouraging to see continued growth in visitor numbers, visitor spending and employment. We know there are still more opportunities ahead, particularly around further growth in overnight stays and continued investment in
visitor experiences and accommodation, and we will continue working closely with partners across the county to build on this momentum.”

Cllr Karen Allison, Portfolio Holder for Leisure, Tourism, Regeneration and High Street said: “Tourism continues to make a significant contribution to County Durham’s economy and communities, demonstrating the value of long-term investment, strong partnership working and high-quality visitor experiences. Tourism is not just important for visitors, it also benefits residents, supporting jobs, creating opportunities and fostering pride in our county.

With exciting developments still to come in 2026, including The Light in Durham City and Kynren’s new daytime attraction, there will be even more for residents and visitors to experience, helping County Durham continue to strengthen its profile on both the national and international stage.”

by

A ticket to County Durham’s key attractions

L-R: Pam Porter, operations and events manager at Locomotion; with Samantha Shotton, COO of Beamish; Cllr Karen Allison, Cabinet member for leisure, high streets, tourism and regeneration; Tim Dodgson, public learning and engagement officer at Raby Castle; Sally Pearson, head of marketing, engagement and audiences and The Bowes Museum; Bethany Jackson, head of audiences at Ushaw; and Dennis Wood, marketing and communications manager at The Auckland Project.

Three new bus services are launching across County Durham to help visitors and residents explore its key attractions.

Durham County Council has commissioned the Durham Explorer to run on weekends and bank holidays between 23 May and 31 August this year.

Each service will connect Durham City to a range of visitor destinations including Locomotion; Ushaw Historic House, Chapels and Gardens; Beamish, The Living Museum of the North; The Auckland Project; Raby Castle, Park and Gardens; The Bowes Museum; and High Force Waterfall; with many venues also offering discounts to those who arrive by bus.

The services have been funded by the North East Mayoral Strategic Authority, to help make bus travel more affordable and attractive for both local people and visitors. The Mayor’s Fares will apply with a single adult journey costing just £2.50 and people aged 21 and under travelling for £1.

Cllr Karen Allison, Durham County Council’s Cabinet member for leisure, high streets, tourism and regeneration, said: “We can’t wait to see these three new routes up and running, helping people to explore more of what our fabulous county has to offer. Whether it’s historic market towns, peaceful countryside or top visitor destinations, all can be easily accessed through these services.

“It’s a great option for residents looking for family days out and we also hope it will attract more visitors to the county, who will stay for longer to explore the area’s many attractions. This will no doubt help to supercharge our economy and encourage repeat visits to both County Durham and the wider north east.”

The new Durham Explorer buses which will be operated by Northstar are:

  • The Durham Dales Explorer (873) which runs from Durham City to The Auckland Project; Raby Castle, Park and Gardens; Barnard Castle; The Bowes Museum and High Force Waterfall.
  • The Time Traveller line (874) from Durham City to Ushaw Historic House, Chapels and Gardens; and Beamish, the Living Museum of the North.
  • The Tracks Through Time line (875) from Durham City to Shildon and Locomotion.

North East Mayor Kim McGuinness said: “County Durham has so much to offer, from brilliant attractions to stunning countryside, and these new bus routes make it easier for people to enjoy great days out without needing to rely on a car.

“I’m delighted we at the strategic mayoral authority have been able to fund them, helping more families, residents and visitors explore what our region has to offer, support local tourism and enjoy simpler travel by bus.”

Bethany Jackson, head of audiences at Ushaw, said: “At Ushaw, we’re delighted to be part of the new The Time Traveller line bus route. Improving sustainable and accessible travel is incredibly important to us, and this new service creates more opportunities for local residents and visitors alike to discover everything our historic estate offers, including our house, chapels, gardens, exhibitions and vibrant events programme.

“We look forward to welcoming even more people to Ushaw this summer and to working alongside other fantastic attractions across County Durham to showcase the very best of our region.”

All buses have accessible access, with dogs also allowed on board.

An adult day ticket is also available in County Durham for £6, allowing unlimited bus travel, while passengers can also purchase a regionwide adult day ticket for bus and Metro travel for £7.50. A regionwide day ticket for young people costs £3.

Children under 11 can also travel without charge during the school holidays as part of the Kids Go Free initiative, offering travel at no cost for up to three children when accompanied by an adult with a valid ticket or a concessionary pass holder.

For more information, visit www.durham.gov.uk/CountyDurhamByBus.

For more information on discounts to regional attractions through the North East Combined Authority’s Days Out by Bus scheme.

by

Durham University plays key role in world’s most detailed 3D map of the universe

Star trails over the Mayall Telescope that houses DESI. Credit: Luke Tyas/Berkeley Lab and KPNO/NOIRLab/NSF/AURA

Researchers from Durham University are playing a central role in one of the most significant global astronomy projects to date, contributing to the creation of the world’s most detailed 3D map of the universe. 

Working alongside international partners, Durham’s experts are helping to map the large-scale structure of the cosmos with unprecedented precision,strengthening the North East’s reputation as a centre of excellence for space science and advanced research.

The Dark Energy Spectroscopic Instrument (DESI) survey, one of the most extensive surveys of the cosmos ever conducted, finished all observations for its originally planned 3D map of the universe.

DESI has completed its planned five-year mission and mapped more than 47 million galaxies and quasars, creating the largest high-resolution 3D map of our universe to date.

Because of the instrument’s excellent performance and hints that the dark energy responsible for the accelerated expansion of the Universe might be evolving, DESI will continue observations into 2028 and further expand the map.

UK scientists have played a significant role throughout the project, including major contributions to data analysis, cosmological modelling and instrumentation.

Professor Carlos Frenk, the Ogden Professor of Fundamental Physics at the Institute for Computational Cosmology, Durham University, and a member of the DESI institutional board said:

“Only 10 years ago I would have thought that measuring the rate at which the Universe expands with an accuracy of one percent was just fantasy. Yet, DESI has done it! The amount and quality of the DESI data and the analysis carried out by an international team of very talented scientists is behind this achievement. The rewards are huge: the data suggest an unexpected behaviour of the dark energy that may upturn the currently accepted view of how our universe evolves.

“Durham has played a major role in DESI with Durham researchers leading major parts of the analysis, including the determination of the mass of neutrinos, elementary particles that make up a small fraction of the Universe’s dark matter.”

Professor Rita Tojeiro, School of Physics and Astronomy at the University of St Andrews, and member of the DESI collaboration said:

“What is fantastic about DESI, in addition to being a revolutionary cosmology survey, is that this new three-dimensional map is enabling world-class legacy science. Each of the 47 million galaxies and quasars that DESI observed tells a unique story. We can collect these individual stories to reveal the overarching narratives of how galaxies form and evolve through cosmic time. Because DESI is revealing the three-dimensional cosmic web in which galaxies live with unprecedented detail, we can now study how galaxies respond to cosmic structures around them in ways that have not been possible before.”