As County Durham looks ahead to 2025 and the much-anticipated 200th anniversary of the Stockton and Darlington Railway, a new marketing campaign by Visit County Durham is encouraging people to stop off and experience the award-winning attractions on offer as well as enjoying some of the highlights of the nine-month international S&DR200 festival.
The new campaign is highlighting why County Durham should be at the top of everyone’s must visit list. Its unique and diverse experiences and world-class attractions make it the perfect place to enjoy a fun filled staycation.
‘Next Stop Durham’ aims to engage with consumers who may have passed through the county but not taken the time to stop and explore. Activity will run until spring 2025 and will include advertising on the London Underground and train stations on the east coast network.
Locomotion Railway Museum in Shildon is a must do during a staycation and will put visitors on track to a great experience. Situated in the world’s first railway town known as ‘the cradle of the railway’ it is the perfect place to explore the history and engineering of the railway.
Locomotion will play a key role in the S&DR200 festival hosting an exhibition highlighting Railway Firsts in recognition of the innovation at the heart of S&DR. Iconic locomotives and rail vehicles will be on display alongside one another showcasing 200 years of railway history.
Next Stop Durham will share this message with millions of potential visitors through targeted marketing activity, including editorials with national media, influencer commissions and digital advertising.
Duncan Peake, chair of Visit County Durham and chief executive of Raby Estates, said: Now is the time for County Durham to shine bright – shouting louder and championing the many wonderful things to experience in the county.
“With heritage destinations, breathtaking scenery and moorland, delicious local produce and standout attractions, this landmark campaign is vital to educate more people about the reasons to visit this very special part of the UK.
“We’re incredibly proud of all that the county has to offer and the additional support and investment into the area has been extremely welcomed.”
Cllr Elizabeth Scott, Durham County Council’s Cabinet member for economy and partnerships, said: “Encouraging visitors to enjoy the wonderful places on offer in the UK is very important and Durham truly is a wonderful place to visit.
“Staycations are crucial to supporting tourism businesses and delivering sustainable economic growth.
“Next Stop Durham will support our efforts to increase overnight stays by providing a wealth of staycation inspiration to suit all ages, tastes and budgets. It comes at a perfect time as the county prepares to celebrate a significant milestone in our rich railway history.”
As part of the campaign, Visit County Durham has created a dedicated section on its consumer website full of inspiring content to help people plan their trip to the county. Visit thisisdurham.com/nextstop to find out more.
South West Durham News covering news across County Durham.
Great to see that VCD are marketing this really important event next year, it’s going to be a wonderful time of railway themed events . There’s a really good website http://www.railway200.com which is nationwide and a more locally focused one http://www.sdr200.com , both of which give loads of ideas of things to do.