Another brick in the tourism wall

Jun 12 2007 By The Journal

The region's tourism boom in the last few years has also been accelerated with funding assistance from Europe, and one of our most well-known landmarks with Roman origins has been a key site to benefit.

The original investment for Hadrian's Wall came from the Roman Emperor himself, of course. Built over a six-year period around 122 AD, the wall marked the Northern frontier of the most famous empire in history - probably the greatest single influence on European cultural development.

Today, large sections of the 73-mile wall still survive, providing a focus for archaeological exploration and growing tourist interest.

The area between South Shields and Ravenglass is studded with forts, mile-castles, temples and turrets.

These 2,000-year-old remains are brought marvellously to life by museums, re-constructions and fascinating visitor centres, all with something different to offer.

It is one of Britain's best historic treasures and a World Heritage Site.

Through the Hadrian's Wall Tourism Partnership, about £300,000 of European Regional Development Fund money has been put forward to help improve the visitor experience and boost tourism.

Some of this money has been used to establish the dedicated website www.hadrians-wall.org and raise the profile of one of Northumberland's best cultural and heritage attractions.

With increasing visitor numbers and an expansion in tourism trade, investment is vital to ensure the provision of appropriate education and community facilities to maintain and enhance the visitor experience.