Film News

With filming for series two of Robson Green’s Weekend Escapes now underway, tourism businesses have been reflecting on the “phenomenal” impact of the show’s debut.

 North East-based Signpost and Rivers Meet productions have confirmed the popular BBC 2 programme will return for a 15 part series either later this year or in early 2024.

Visit County Durham, which oversees the county’s Filming Friendly service, has welcomed the news. Series one significantly raised Durham’s profile as a staycation destination, generating great interest in the county’s landscapes and attractions.

Series two will once again follow Robson as he gets back to nature in his beloved North East accompanied by family, friends and famous faces.

Filming is now taking place in locations across the region, including the Durham Dales, where Robson took a ride on the Weardale Railway and enjoyed an outdoor workout at Hamsterley Forest.  

The 2,000 hectare-forest, which is managed by Forestry England, also featured in series one of Weekend Escapes. During his visit, Robson joined Aaron Parker, a breathwork instructor at The Conscious Self, for a forest bathing session.

Aaron said: “After meeting Robson and sharing in a forest bath and breath at the beautiful Hamsterley Forest I have had an influx of people coming to events who are interested in the benefits of forest bathing and connecting with their breath. It’s a beautiful thing to see people getting back in touch with nature.”

Laura Hull, visitor experience manager at Hamsterley Forest, said: “Since the Robson Green series was televised, we have received enquiries about where you can go in the forest to sit quietly and connect with nature or go for a walk in the trees. We have run several successful events since, with Aaron and his partners offering gong whispering, and we are about to offer yoga in the forest as a follow up to these wonderful sessions.”

Teesdale Cheesemakers, also based in the Durham Dales, featured in episode six of series one, and owners Jonathan and Allison Raper are delighted the show is returning.

Alison said: “We absolutely loved being part of the show.  At the time of filming, it was a real boost to our staff morale and a joy to work with such a wonderful crew.  Everyone was friendly, professional and made the experience a great deal of fun.

“The show’s impact on our business has been phenomenal and we were wholly unprepared for the level of interest in all aspects of our business after it aired in January. Glamping was a new venture for us in 2022 and bookings have gone from a 15 per cent utilisation that year, to 75 per cent so far this year. Cafe, cheese experiences and general enquiries have also increased significantly.

“It was one of singularly best experiences for our business and we'd jump at the chance to work with Robson and his team again.”

Michelle Gorman, managing director of Visit County Durham, said: “Screen tourism is incredibly important to Durham’s visitor economy. Whether it’s a blockbuster film such as Avengers Endgame, Harry Potter or 1917; a gripping drama such as The Witcher, Vera or Downton Abbey; or a fantastic series like Robson Green’s Weekend Escapes – film and television has the power to showcase our stunning landscapes, rich heritage and amazing attractions to millions of people across the UK and around the world.

“We’re always keen to hear from production companies wishing to film in the county and aim to provide all the information and contacts they need via our Filming Friendly hub, along with ongoing support throughout the project.”

Find out more information on series two of Robson Green’s Weekend Escapes.