Teesside Experiences Significant Increase in Tourist Numbers

Recent data indicates that Teesside attracted over one million additional tourists during the previous year. Visitors were drawn by major events like the Hardwick music festival and the Tall Ships Races, as well as the local culinary offerings. According to the most recent report from the Tees Valley Combined Authority (TVCA), the region welcomed 19.4 million tourists last year, representing an increase of approximately one million compared to 2022. Alison Gwynn, representing the Tees Valley Business Board, attributed these elevated figures to the area’s “unique charm” and the “incredible potential” of its food and drink establishments. She stated, “Our firms are the heart of this growth, showcasing the passion and creativity that make the Tees Valley a destination of choice.” Gwynn further commented, “As more people discover the flavours, experiences, and warm hospitality we have to offer, our businesses all play a vital role in driving the region forward as a premier place to visit, enjoy, and return to time and time again.” The appeal of Teesside’s food and drink sector also contributed to a substantial financial gain for the region, with the industry’s value estimated to have increased by £20m, reaching £426m. This growth in popularity also resulted in increased employment within the industry. An additional 1,300 individuals secured positions in tourism and hospitality last year, bringing the total workforce to 12,600. The calculation of these figures utilized the STEAM model, a method that assesses the economic contribution of visitor spending to a local economy. Tees Valley Mayor Ben Houchen remarked that the area is “chock full of hidden gems the world should know more about.” He added, “These figures show the word is getting out there, and our efforts to back global names and events coming to our region, and to showcase the best we have to offer, are paying off.” Houchen, a Conservative peer, further stated that while the combined authority still has tasks ahead, “the numbers show we’re heading in the right direction.”