Press Release

Discover Durham is now an official member of the Coach Tourism Association.

Led by Visit County Durham, Discover Durham is the county’s group travel and trade consortium, representing Durham’s group friendly attractions, accommodation and tour guides.

As a member of the Coach Tourism Association, Discover Durham joins a network of more than 300 members, around half of which are coach tour operators and tour wholesalers. It is a highly effective way for the county to promote its amazing group travel offer to coach trip organisers and tour operators.

Michelle Gorman, managing director of Visit County Durham, said: “Durham is an ideal destination for coach tours and group travel visits. As well as our award-winning group friendly attractions and welcoming accommodation, the county boasts stunning landscapes and a characterful heritage city at its heart. As a member of the Coach Tourism Association, we will gain new opportunities to showcase this offer and connect with key players in the industry.”

Robert Shaw, Coach Tourism Association Chair, said: “We are delighted to welcome Discover Durham as a new member of the Coach Tourism Association. We look forward to working with contacts in Durham to promote opportunities for new coach tour products and itineraries. Coach tourism delivers key environmental benefits to destinations since one of our members’ coaches can carry as many as 20-cars worth of people, meaning there is less environmental pollution and much greater local spending power for every vehicle." Visit County Durham works with tourism businesses across the county to develop Durham’s group travel offer through the Discover Durham partnership.