Derbyshire dubbed 'first class destination for business'

Travel and events organisers from across the UK have hailed the Peak District & Derbyshire as ‘a first class destination for business' and ‘superb' conference location.

Other positive comments after a recent fact-finding tour organised by Conference Derbyshire to highlight the host of assets the area has to offer for business tourism included:

'An impressive blend of heritage, natural beauty and attractive modern amenities.'

'Not just a place for leisure, but amazing venues for any type of corporate event.'

'Surpassed all my expectations in its variety and outstanding landscape. I would have no hesitation in recommending Derbyshire as a conference or staff ‘away day' destination.'

'The team at Conference Derbyshire is first-class and it is great to know it is on hand to offer advice and expertise when planning events for our clients.'

Representatives serving the needs of both national and international customers stayed at the Old Hall Hotel in Buxton, Jurys Inn Derby and Hallmark Derby. They visited a wide range of attractions and venues – including the University of Derby Buxton's showpiece Devonshire Dome campus, Chatsworth, the Roundhouse in Derby and the city's Pride Park Stadium.

Another of the weekend's highlights was a treasure hunt taking in key venues across Derby city centre – won by members of Team Jurys Inn Derby, who received a selection of fine wines sponsored by Red Zebra.

"The aim of our familiarisation tour was to introduce travel and events organisers to the many advantages of choosing the Peak District & Derbyshire as a prime business venue," said Nick Jordan, Chair of Conference Derbyshire - the business tourism arm of Visit Peak District & Derbyshire.

"Judging by the comments we have received, their response was very positive and confirms our belief that we offer the very best of both city and countryside in a convenient location, right at the heart of the UK.

"We've got everything they could possibly want – from a wide range of quality-assured accommodation and award-winning venues to excellent transport links and helpful and knowledgeable staff – all amid some of the most stunning scenery and fascinating heritage in the country.

"All those who joined us confirmed they would now consider the Peak District & Derbyshire as a destination – so we're hoping that their interest will boost our efforts to bring more business tourism to the area by generating plenty of leads for events and conferences of all kinds in the future."

A second familiarisation tour is currently being planned by the Conference Derbyshire team. Anyone interested in booking a place, or in finding out more about bringing a conference or event to Derby, The Peak District & Derbyshire, is invited to contact Conference Derbyshire on 01332 594446.

Conference Derbyshire shares offices with Visit Peak District & Derbyshire at Crescent View, Hall Bank, Buxton, Derbyshire SK17 6EN. For further information, visit www.conference-derbyshire.co.uk, call 0845 833 0970 ext.4850 or e-mail rachel.guest@visitpeakdistrict.com.