Tipi in talks for city return
The owner of Hadrian’s Tipi says it is pleased with its first Christmas trading in Sunderland, after it attracted 50,000 visitors.
The temporary tipi was on site at Keel Square for 11 weeks and leisure group Danieli Holdings says it welcomed an average of about 4,500 people a week.
Open to families, as well as people on a night out, the site received its highest visitor numbers on Sunderland AFC’s home games and weekends.
Kevin Walker, operations director for Danieli Holdings, said: “We have been delighted to have welcomed so many people to the tipi over its 11-week run in the city.
“The decision to set up camp in Sunderland was fully justified by the tens of thousands of visitors that came along and enjoyed its festive feel.
“Hadrian’s Tipi has a loyal customer base and it’s clear that the people of Sunderland and the surrounding areas have enjoyed been part of this event.”
Eight street traders surrounded the tipi, along with two Christmas stalls. Hatch 76, an artisan favourite well recognised for its duck fries and wraps, featured alongside Quaff Box, serving cocktails, Al Baik offered a selection of Lebanese food and there was also a bratwurst stall in the heated street food area.
But it seemed to be the bar itself which proved most popular.
Over the course of the 11 weeks, the tipi also hosted DJ events, an open mic night and Christmas events for children, and the leisure group is in talks with Sunderland City Council about returning this Christmas.
Mr Walker added: “Although it’s been a great success, we never rest on our laurels at Danieli Holdings, so we’ll be looking to improve on the event in 2019.
“We’ll be on the look-out for the latest trends to see if we can up our game this year, so watch this space.”
Danieli Holdings also runs the successful Hadrian’s Tipi in Newcastle which is based in the group’s container village, Stack.