Rotherham is Wonderful: Our Visitor Economy

As we approach Spring and the holidays, our roving reporter thought it appropriate to focus on the amazing visitor attractions and opportunities on our doorstep to enjoy as individuals and with family.

The visitor economy is already big business for Rotherham and South Yorkshire. Just over five years ago it generated over £1 billion of direct expenditure annually to our economy. 

There are many positive changes taking place across South Yorkshire to add to this impressive statistic. 

We have achieved the status of a Local Visitor Economy Partnership (LVEP) from VisitEngland – A recognition of our potential and importance as a visitor destination. 

Across South Yorkshire we have significant strengths – our family and heritage attractions, our events and conference programmes, our connectivity. We have exciting opportunities with new developments and investments coming on stream right across the area.

South Yorkshire is made up of:

Outdoor and nature areas

Old Moor, Potteric Carr, Thrybergh Country Park, Rother Valley Country Park and the Peak District, as well as beautiful villages like Whiston, Wath, Treeton, Sprotbrough and Wickersley just to name a few!

Heritage

Brodsworth Hall, Elsecar Heritage Centre, Wentworth Woodhouse, Kelham Island Museum, Wentworth Castle and Gardens and South Yorkshire Aircraft Museum.

Arts and culture

Cannon Hall Gallery and Museum, Millenium Gallery, Graves Gallery, theatres such as Cast, Rotherham Civic Theatre, Lyceum, and the Crucible.

Family spaces

Yorkshire Wildlife Park, Magna, Gulliver’s Valley, National Videogame Museum, National Emergency Services Museum, Aston Springs Farm, Doncaster Dome and Barnsley Metrodome.

Sporting events

Football, ice hockey, rugby league, Doncaster Racecourse, Sheffield venues (Ponds Forge, English Institute of Sport, Ice Sheffield) and our own RUFC!

Urban life

Retail such as Meadowhall, The Glass Works, Lakeside Centre, Frenchgate, Doncaster, Barnsley and Rotherham Markets), distinctive neighbourhoods, bars and restaurants and our new ARC Cinema too!

Events

Tramlines, World Snooker, DocFest, Doncaster Festival of Light and importantly for this year, Children’s Capital of Culture!

South Yorkshire’s Destination Management plan for 2024-2029 and team responsible are working hard to elevate the many opportunities, places and spaces that people can visit and enjoy. 

Why not enjoy a staycation and visit all that is on offer in your area… Because Rotherham is Wonderful!