Wealden council supports English Tourism Week

Taking place from 15 to 24 March 2024, English Tourism Week, and this year's campaign, uses the strapline "supporting tourism, the heart of our communities", which aims to highlight the industry's important economic, cultural and social impact and celebrates the importance of the sector.

Knockhatch Adventure Park, located in Hailsham, offers exciting attractions which continuously grow year after year catering to visitors of all ages. There is a range of indoor and outdoor attractions and animal experiences and displays.

The visit during English Tourism Week was organised through the 1066 Country Partnership, of which Wealden District Council is a partner.

Wealden council's chair Councillor Jessika Hulbert, vice chair Councillor Gavin Blake-Coggins and Councillor Paul Coleshill attended the venue and were joined by representatives from Hailsham Town Council.

Tourism is an important and valued part of Wealden's economy bringing in millions of pounds each year and providing jobs for thousands of people.

In 2022 £169 million was spent in the local area because of tourism, supporting over 5,000 jobs both for residents and those living nearby. There were 5.21 million daytrips to the district and 0.23 million overnight visits.

Councillor Paul Coleshill, Alliance for Wealden (Liberal Democrat) and lead councillor for Climate Change and Economy, said, "We live in a fantastic place that people love to visit. We enjoy great natural beauty and stunning visible history from Roman forts and Norman castles to great country houses, gardens and vineyards. In addition to all these natural and historic gifts, we have attractions like Knockhatch Adventure Park, which is a great day out for all the family."

Chris Douglas, head of marketing at Knockhatch Adventure Park, said, "Knockhatch Adventure Park is proud to be a promoted attraction by Explore Wealden. We are thankful that the leaders of the council see the importance of English Tourism Week and asked to visit us today."

To continue the efforts of supporting tourism in the Wealden district, Streets of Wealden returns for another year with a variety of artists and performances.

People are encouraged to visit the town centres of Crowborough, Heathfield, Hailsham and Uckfield on the last two Saturdays in April and May to enjoy some fun, free street theatre with an impressive line-up of artists. There is something for all the family - from an enchanting mermaid gliding through the streets to a shopping dance display.

Notes to editors:

The council supports tourism through the Explore Wealden web site www.explorewealden.co.uk.

This website focuses on driving tourism and raising awareness about the fantastic places in Wealden, which includes vineyards, places to dine, stay and visit.