Events & Training

As astro tourism grows in popularity, Visit County Durham have recognised the need to offer business support to ensure that businesses understand the variety of needs of this market.

We will be hosting FREE business development workshops designed to give you an insight into this area and to broaden your knowledge.

The workshops are split into 2 sessions – a half day information sharing session, covering advice about dark skies in our area and why they are so important, why visitors should choose this area, business case studies, marketing tips and how to make your business dark sky friendly.

The second workshop will include a visit to one of our key star gazing sites, hosted by a star gazing specialist and will help you to find out more about the dark sky offer.
Attendance is free of charge.

Pre-booking is essential.

Part 1 - Workshop: Wednesday 13 November 2024 10am-1pm in the Elgin Room, Bishop Auckland Town Hall
❖ Advice about dark skies in our area
❖ Why visitors should choose this area
❖ Why dark skies are so important
❖ Case studies
❖ Marketing tips
❖ How to make your business dark sky friendly

Part 2 - Dark Sky Sites Visit: Wednesday 20 November 2024 6pm-8pm at High Force Hotel
An overview of the night sky and a visit to star gaze at High Force Waterfall.

For more information or to book a place please contact Lucy Wearne at
lucy.wearne@visitcountydurham.org