This English Tourism Week (15- 24 March), Calderdale Council is celebrating the growing tourism offer in the borough.
Latest research, based on 2022 figures, show that tourism in Calderdale is worth an estimated £431million, supporting nearly 9000 jobs within the borough. This is an increase of 24% from 2018 figures, showing that despite considerable challenges, including the pandemic, local flooding and the ongoing cost of living crisis, Calderdale’s visitor economy continues to grow.
A wide variety of major productions have been filmed in Calderdale in recent years, giving huge exposure to parts of the borough. Shows like Happy Valley, Gentleman Jack, Marvel: Secret Invasion and others filmed in Calderdale have, without a doubt, helped to put the borough on the national and international map.
The popularity of Calderdale for filming has continued and in 2023, 31 productions carried out over 100 days of filming within Calderdale, adding an estimated £856,000 to the regional economy. The borough’s diverse offer has seen it stand in for locations around the world, including in the upcoming TV series, A Gentleman in Moscow, featuring Ewan MacGregor, where Halifax Town Hall is used as the historic Metropol Hotel in Moscow.
This year, Calderdale will reach its 50th birthday and to celebrate the Council is working with creative partners to hold a Year of Culture. CultureDale 2024 will showcase the distinct heritage and diverse culture around the borough. You can find out more about all the events and activities that are taking place, at www.culturedale.co.uk(external link) or on social media at www.facebook.com/culturedale2024(external link) and twitter.com/CultureDale2024(external link)
In the run up to the Year of Culture and as part of regional celebrations for English Tourism Week, the Council is also highlighting some of the festivals, events and experiences across the region during English Tourism Week and beyond.
Calderdale Council’s Cabinet Member for Towns, Tourism and Voluntary Sector, Cllr Sarah Courtney, said:
“There’s much to celebrate in Calderdale this English Tourism Week, with the latest figures confirming what we already know about the borough’s growing reputation as a visitor destination.
“There really is something for everyone, whether it’s finding out more about our fascinating heritage, spotting iconic film locations, enjoying walks in our beautiful and plentiful countryside or shopping in our towns filled with independent shops.
“We’re proud of our tourism offer and cultural diversity and look forward to celebrating during English Tourism Week and beyond, into our Year of Culture.”
Calderdale’s Year of Culture launches on Saturday 13 April and promises a diverse program of events throughout 2024 and into 2025, catering to all ages and interests. From vibrant festivals and engaging workshops to captivating performances and insightful exhibitions, there will be something for everyone to experience and enjoy.
For details of what’s on in Calderdale during English Tourism Week and beyond, visit www.visitcalderdale.com(external link) or follow them on Instagram, Facebook, X, and TikTok.
April 2024 marks Calderdale’s 50th birthday and there’s not long to go! Get involved on X with #VisionCdale2024 and find out more at www.calderdale.gov.uk/vision