Sandra Whitefield on behalf of Low Urpeth Farm 

When we look back over the past 20 years, one of the biggest changes we have seen is the way people choose to experience County Durham. 

Two decades ago, visitors would often come for a day trip or stay for just one night before continuing their journey north to Northumberland or Scotland. Today, they are staying longer and, importantly, coming back time and time again. 

County Durham now offers such an impressive choice of high-quality attractions, events, food and accommodation that there is always another reason to visit. From Beamish Museum, Durham Castle, Raby Castle and The Bowes Museum to Locomotion, Kynren, food festivals and cricket at the Riverside, there is a real wealth of experiences to discover. 

We see that change first-hand at Low Urpeth. Our guests love exploring the county, and we have many repeat visitors, some of whom have been coming to stay with us for more than 25 years. Whether they are visiting for the first time or returning to a much-loved place, we want them to receive a warm, friendly welcome and discover the very best that the region has to offer. 

Visit County Durham has played an important part in that journey. The support, guidance and expertise we have received over the past 20 years have been invaluable, from conferences and training to partnership schemes and networking opportunities. Its work to promote County Durham nationally and internationally has helped raise the profile of the destination and create opportunities for businesses like ours. 

The Welcome to Durham Ambassador training was particularly valuable, helping us to step back and rediscover just how much there is to see and do on our doorstep. The networking opportunities have also enabled us to reconnect with other local attractions and accommodation providers and share ideas about what we can offer visitors. 

Food has become another important part of the visitor experience. The Taste Durham Awards encouraged us to put local produce at the heart of our ‘Cracking Urpeth Breakfasts’ when we operated the Farmhouse Bed & Breakfast. Today, our self-catering guests receive welcome packs featuring local favourites including South Durham Honey and Candy Gadgies Fudge. 

We have seen County Durham evolve into a destination where people don’t simply pass through, they stay, explore, return and recommend it to others. 

For us, Visit County Durham has been a supportive, engaging and professional partner throughout that journey, helping businesses to make the most of the incredible destination we are lucky enough to call home. 

Sandra Whitefield on behalf of Low Urpeth Farm