Families, couples and anyone seeking a staycation packed full of memorable moments are being encouraged to head to Durham. Visit County Durham, Durham County Council’s tourism service, has teamed up with partners across the tourism sector for a new campaign aimed at boosting the visitor economy over the autumn and winter months.

Memorable Moments draws upon the many diverse experiences waiting to be discovered in Durham. Whether that be a fun-filled day out at an award-winning attraction, an invigorating walk along the coast, exploring fascinating heritage sites or tucking into seasonal dishes at one of the county’s many places to eat, drink and stay. The campaign is based around five key themes – family breaks, heritage, the outdoors, culture and food and drink – and is being supported by some of Durham’s biggest attractions, including Locomotion, The Bowes Museum, The Auckland Project and Beamish, The Living Museum of the North.

Through targeted marketing activity, including editorials with national media, influencer commissions and digital advertising, Memorable Moments will showcase the county to millions of potential visitors. It also aims to encourage visitors to stay longer and explore more of the county, both of which are priorities for Visit County Durham, the county’s destination management organisation.

The other Memorable Moments partners include Durham Cathedral; Ushaw Historic House, Chapels and Gardens; Forestry England (Hamsterley Forest); Northumbrian Water (Grassholme Observatory and Derwent Waterside Park); Raby Estates (Raby Castle, High Force and the High Force Hotel); Headlam Hall Rural Retreat; Radisson Blu Durham; and Host Stay.

Ivor Stolliday, Chair of Visit County Durham Limited, said: “Family holidays or weekends away with friends or a loved one are among our most treasured memories. In Durham, we pride ourselves on offering a vast range of extraordinary experiences, making the county the ideal choice for an unforgettable staycation. “By working with our partners on the Memorable Moments campaign, we can promote Durham as the place to go to make memories whatever your interests or budget. This in turn will provide a welcome boost to the county’s visitor economy during the quieter winter months.”

Cllr Elizabeth Scott, Durham County Council’s Cabinet member for economy and partnerships, said: “The visitor economy is vital to Durham, supporting thousands of jobs and enhancing the vibrancy of towns and villages across the county. “Memorable Moments will shine a light on what we have to offer and raise our profile nationally.

This not only attracts more visitors to the county but enhances our appeal withtourism and hospitality businesses looking to invest “What’s more, the campaign will build upon Durham’s shortlisted UK City of Culture bid, which secured more than £8million-worth of media coverage and put the county firmly on the map as a cultural destination.” As part of the campaign, Visit County Durham has created a new section on its consumer website full of inspiring content to help people plan their trip to the county.