Northumberland saw more than 10 million visitors, setting a new record for visitor spending in 2023, according to the most recent annual Scarborough Tourism Economic Activity Monitor (STEAM) report.

The report measures the economic impact of tourism by analysing various input data such as visitor attraction numbers and expenditure levels.

Up 7.9 per cent from 2022, the report reveals that 2023 reached a record gross value contribution of £1.262 billion, with the area welcoming 10.12 million tourists.

Andrew Fox, chair of Visit Northumberland, said: "We are delighted that the dedication and determination from everyone involved within Northumberland’s tourism industry is contributing hugely to the sector’s regional impact."

"The Northumberland visitor economy has surpassed its record gross value contribution and seen numbers grow, driven by day visitors supported by nearly two million choosing to stay overnight.

“However, we welcome these results with cautious optimism as, despite spend being 20.5 per cent higher than 2019, visitor numbers remain 5.3 per cent lower and the economic impact remains 5.4 per cent behind pre-pandemic levels when indexed to take inflation into account.”  

While staying guests constituted only 18 per cent (1.855m) of the visits, they represented 65 per cent (£817m) of the economic impact.

The food and drink sector continues to make the most significant contribution to the visitor economy, providing 41.8 per cent of total jobs and 48.2 per cent economic impact.

Cllr Jeff Watson, Northumberland County Council’s portfolio holder for Tourism, said: "We’re proud of the hospitality and positive experiences visitors receive in Northumberland.

"Tourism contributes significantly to our local communities and fosters an environment for a thriving local economy."

Mayor Kim McGuinness of the North East Combined Authority said: "It's very encouraging to see growth in visitor numbers and spend, not just in the cities but in our towns, along our coastline and in the villages and countryside too.

"I'm committed to building on Destination North East England's ambitious plans to supercharge the visitor economy.

"If we get this right, we'll create thousands of good jobs and support local businesses across the region too."