Northumberland National Park remains a key driver of the North East's visitor economy, according to newly released tourism data showing significant growth in economic value alongside the Park's ongoing contribution to culture, heritage, nature and wellbeing.
The most recent STEAM figures put 2025 visitor numbers at 1.79 million, a 6.7% rise on the year before and the first time visits have surpassed pre-pandemic 2019 levels. The Park's tourism sector now generates an estimated £146 million for the local economy and sustains 1,369 full-time equivalent jobs.
Northumberland National Park Authority collaborates closely with farmers, landowners, local communities, tourism operators and other stakeholders whose efforts help maintain the landscapes visitors come to explore. This partnership approach supports sustainable tourism within a broader rural economic context, opening up possibilities for diversification, new income streams and stronger, more resilient farm and land-based enterprises, all while safeguarding what makes the National Park special.
These results reflect the enduring draw of Northumberland National Park as a destination celebrated for its peace and quiet, world-class dark skies, deep cultural roots, wildlife and natural beauty.
Since becoming England's first International Dark Sky Park in 2013 (a designation shared with much of Kielder Water & Forest Park), Northumberland has built a visitor offering that runs throughout the year. Stargazing events, dark skies experiences and nighttime nature activities are helping stretch the traditional season, giving local businesses a boost outside peak months and offering visitors new ways to engage with the Park.
The Authority has also directed investment toward upgrading visitor access at several key locations through its Welcoming Park for All initiative, backed by UK Government funding via the UK Shared Prosperity Fund and the North East Mayoral Strategic Authority Investment Fund, with the North East Mayoral Strategic Authority serving as Lead Authority.
At Hareshaw Linn, newly installed EV chargers and extra parking capacity are easing congestion in Bellingham. Meanwhile, Walltown Country Park has gained EV charging points, resurfaced car park areas, a wheelchair- and wheel-friendly trail network, a balance bike library and tramper hire, broadening accessibility for visitors of all abilities.
Access improvements at Alwinton are similarly supporting visits into Upper Coquetdale, one of the Park's most tranquil and distinctive areas.
The Sill: National Landscape Discovery Centre was another highlight of 2025, offering an accessible gateway into both the National Park and the Hadrian's Wall UNESCO World Heritage Site. A standout moment was the launch of Sycamore Gap: Coming Home, a free, permanent installation that gives the largest surviving piece of the Sycamore Gap tree a resting place near its original site.
David Renwick, Chief Executive Officer of Northumberland National Park Authority, commented:
"These figures highlight how much Northumberland National Park contributes to the North East economy — sustaining local jobs, rural enterprises and communities, while giving people the chance to connect with nature, heritage and some of the UK's most striking scenery.
"By working alongside farmers, land managers, tourism operators and other partners, the Authority is committed to making sure tourism benefits both residents and visitors alike. Whether through dark skies experiences, outdoor activities or attractions like The Sill, we're providing year-round opportunities that support a resilient rural economy.
"None of this happens without ongoing investment, funding and strong partnerships. While this growth is welcome news, our priority remains creating lasting value for people, communities and nature — all while protecting the qualities that make this National Park somewhere people genuinely cherish."
Day visits continue to make up the vast majority of trips to the Park, representing over 95% of total visits. Overnight stays also rose in 2025, reaching 61,000 — the highest figure recorded since 2022.
Northumberland National Park Authority continues to partner with local communities, businesses, land managers and other stakeholders to promote tourism that benefits the local economy while preserving the Park's natural beauty, cultural heritage and unique character for generations to come.
