Why did one million more tourists visit Teesside?

Big events and the food and drink sector have helped to attract people to the region, leaders say

More than one million extra tourists flocked to Teesside last year, latest figures have revealed.

They came for big events such as the Hardwick music festival and the Tall Ships Races - and to eat.

Tees Valley Combined Authority's (TVCA) latest report said 19.4 million tourists visited the region last year, about one million more than in 2022.

Alison Gwynn, from the Tees Valley Business Board, said the boosted figures were down to the region's "unique charm" and "incredible potential" of its food and drink businesses.

"Our firms are the heart of this growth, showcasing the passion and creativity that make the Tees Valley a destination of choice," she said.

"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."

'Hidden gems'

The pull of Teesside's food and drink also led to a big financial boost for the region, with the sector thought to have grown by £20m to £426m.

Its rise in popularity also led to more people finding work in the industry. There were 1,300 more people working in tourism and hospitality jobs last year, making the total 12,600.

The figures were calculated using the STEAM model, which estimates how much visitor spending brings to a local economy.

Tees Valley Mayor Ben Houchen said the area was "chock full of hidden gems the world should know more about".

"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," he said.

Houchen, a Conservative peer, added the combined authority had more work to do but "the numbers show we're heading in the right direction".