Last week was English Tourism Week 2025 – a national celebration which highlights the importance of the tourism industry to local communities and economies. To mark the occasion, Chris Hinchcliff, MP for North East Hertfordshire, visited Standalone Farm to find out about the attraction and the impact it had on the visitor economy.
Mr Hinchcliff was given a tour of the farm by Jason Valentine – Venues Manager at Letchworth Garden City Heritage Foundation. Speaking about how visitor attractions like Standalone Farm have a wide reaching positive impact, Chris said:
“England's tourism industry is a point of national pride, contributing billions to the economy, supporting millions of jobs, and fostering growth in local communities.”
Supporting over 42,000 jobs
The visitor economy is supported and promoted in the county by Visit Herts. Chief Executive, Deirdre Wells OBE, said:
“The visitor economy is worth over £2bn to Hertfordshire and supports over 42,000 jobs. We were delighted to receive such great support during English Tourism Week from our MPs to support this vital sector.”
Chris and Jason were keen to emphasise tourism’s crucial role in driving the economy and Standalone Farm’s role as a educational and wellbeing hub. Jason said:
“Standalone Farm has been welcoming families and groups for more than 40 years, and we are proud to have been part of so many people’s childhood memories. Over the decades, we’ve stayed true to our roots as a small, traditional working farm, while providing events and activities for children (and adults) to enjoy.”
Mr Hinchcliff's visit to Standalone Farm as part of English Tourism Week underscores the significant role tourism plays in strengthening local economies and fostering community well-being. As we look toward the spring, this visit serves as a reminder of the importance of tourism in driving economic growth, creating jobs, and supporting the vibrancy of local communities.