The North East International Film Festival (NEIFF) is delighted to announce a new official partnership with The Gainford Group, one of the North East’s leading hospitality and leisure operators, for its 2026 festival.
This partnership brings together two of Newcastle’s most vibrant cultural and hospitality forces, uniting film, experience, and city life to enhance the festival experience for filmmakers, industry guests, and audiences.
Throughout the festival week, The Gainford Group venues – including The Vermont Hotel, County Hotel, Aveika, Hudson, Above, and Livello – will play a central role in hosting and supporting NEIFF events, helping to create a seamless and elevated festival experience across the city.
Festival attendees will also benefit from a series of exclusive offers across Gainford venues, including up to 20% off room rates at The Vermont and County Hotels, 20% off food and drinks (Sunday-Thursday) at Aveika, Hudson and Above, and complimentary entry to Livello on Friday and Saturday. (Subject to availability and terms and conditions.)
As part of the collaboration, The Gainford Group will sponsor NEIFF’s Saturday morning industry breakfast – a key networking event bringing together filmmakers, creatives, and industry professionals – as well as hosting a special festival screening at Above, one of Newcastle’s most distinctive city venues.
Lisa-Marie Tonelli MBE, Festival Director of NEIFF, said:
“We are absolutely thrilled to be partnering with The Gainford Group for the North East International Film Festival 2026. This collaboration strengthens the festival experience across the city and reflects what NEIFF is all about – bringing people together through culture, creativity, and shared spaces. It’s a partnership that celebrates both film and the incredible hospitality scene we are so fortunate to have in the North East.”
A spokesperson for The Gainford Group added:
“We’re incredibly proud to be partnering with the North East International Film Festival this year. A big thank you to Lisa-Marie Tonelli MBE and the team for the opportunity. We can’t wait to welcome you all to our venues.”
The partnership reinforces NEIFF’s ongoing commitment to working with leading regional organisations to deliver a festival that not only showcases international cinema, but also champions the North East as a dynamic cultural destination for a global audience.
Further announcements on festival programming and partner activations will be announced soon.
