Visit County Durham mounts national marketing campaign

Heritage sites in County Durham are joining forces to mount a national marketing campaign to attract tourists to the region.

Six strategic partners have come together to deliver the Visit County Durham campaign along with support from more than 50 businesses across the county.

The historic attractions joining together are Beamish, Lindisfarne Gospels Durham, Durham Cathedral, Locomotion: The National Railway Museum at Shildon, The Bowes Museum and the Durham County Cricket Club.

Running from May to September, the heritage campaign will use outdoor advertising, online advertising on high traffic websites, e-newsletters and a supplement in a national newspaper – to highlight what Durham.

Melanie Sensicle, chief executive, Visit County Durham said: “For those that enjoy history and heritage, Durham has always been a fantastic destination to enjoy a great holiday, exploring the many attractions, museums, and events that we have throughout the county.

“This year is even more special, with the Lindisfarne Gospels Durham only one of a series of extraordinary events taking place in 2013.

“Showcasing our heritage is the second theme of our three-year national marketing campaign, and we hope it will persuade even more people that Durham is a perfect place to visit and discover our extraordinary social, industrial, sporting and spiritual heritage.”

Following a highly successful national cycling and walking campaign, heritage is the second of three themes in a three-year project which is funded by £450,000 from the Government’s Regional Growth Fund (RGF) administered by VisitEngland.

Matched funding to the tune of £210,000 has also been provided by Durham tourism operators and local partners.

Next week sees Beamish Museum profiled on the digital advertising displays at London Kings Cross station and on posters across the London Underground Network, with Locomotion and Durham Cathedral taking their turn in the spotlight later this summer.

Rhiannon Hiles, Assistant Director of Engagement at Beamish Museum said: “We’re thrilled to be a part of this campaign. Beamish has always celebrated everything that is great about Durham; the people, the culture, and a very proud history.

“We have a wonderful and varied events programme that runs throughout the year, helping people to really experience history, rather than just view it.

“There’s always something to enjoy at Beamish, and that goes for Durham too.

“The whole area has such a rich heritage, and some truly spectacular attractions.

“To see what Durham has to offer being drawn to the attention of a national audience is really fantastic.”

The campaign website thisisdurham.com/heritage features information on heritage and history related attractions and events across Durham.

The site also provides visitors with information on places to visit, eat and shop, helps them to build an itinerary, book accommodation, take advantage of special offers and get all the details they need to help them discover Durham’s heritage.

Dr Keith Bartlett, Lindisfarne Gospels Durham Programme Director said: “While Lindisfarne Gospels Durham is a highlight of Durham’s cultural calendar in 2013, it’s important not to forget what Durham offers year in, year out.

“The Lindisfarne Gospels is one of the world’s greatest books and the exhibition will be a once in a lifetime opportunity to see St Cuthbert’s treasures alongside the book that was written in his honour.

“However, with a wealth of other heritage sites and attractions to visit, there are many reasons to make a visit to the exhibition just one part of a brilliant stay in Durham.

“This campaign will bring the wonderful heritage of Durham to the attention of the country.”

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