Tourism in Derby and Derbyshire delivers record economic impact

New figures have revealed that tourism in Derby and Derbyshire is delivering a record contribution to the local economy.

The latest STEAM (Scarborough Tourism Economic Activity Monitor) figures for 2024 reveal a £3.58 billion contribution – a 9.1% increase on 2023, or around 6% in real terms, when adjusted for inflation.

The latest data highlights the growing strength and resilience of the area’s visitor economy and highlights the significant impact of the region’s Local Visitor Economy Partnership (LVEP), which is made up of Visit Peak District & Derbyshire and Visit Derby.

Highlights from the 2024 figures include a 14% increase in overnight stays, with serviced accommodation leading the way, up 30.7% year-on-year.

Meanwhile, visitor days remain stable and consistent with 2023 levels, supporting the region’s strategy of prioritising value over sheer visitor volume.

Employment supported directly and indirectly by tourism reached 33,000, an increase of 6%, underlining the sector’s vital role in local job creation.

Jo Dilley, managing director of Visit Peak District & Derbyshire, said: “These impressive results clearly demonstrate the impact of the work led by the Local Visitor Economy Partnership, with a strong focus on attracting high-value visitors and championing sustainable tourism to build a more resilient, year-round visitor economy.

“We look forward to building on this success with continued collaboration across the region.”

The latest tourism figures align with the wider priorities of the East Midlands Combined County Authority, which recognises tourism as a key economic driver in the region’s future growth.

Mayor of the East Midlands, Claire Ward said: “The visitor economy is hugely important for the region, because it matters everywhere: to our cities, our market towns, and our rural areas.

“As these figures show, the visitor economy plays a vital role in shaping the East Midlands’ identity and gives a major boost to our local economy, while also helping to protect our rich heritage and stunning landscapes.”