Six Staffordshire attractions were among the winners of VisitEngland’s Visitor Attraction Accolades for 2022-23.
The accolades are designed to celebrate excellence within the visitor attraction sector and showcases businesses that go the extra mile to provide a high-quality day out.
The honours are awarded in five categories – Hidden Gem, Best Told Story, Quality Food and Drink and Welcome – with a gold accolade for all-round top scoring attractions based on scores obtained from annual VisitEngland Visitor Attraction Quality Scheme assessments.
Trentham Gardens was Staffordshire’s only attraction – and one of only 28 in England – to receive Gold after achieving an overall score of 94 per cent.
A spokesman said: “From the captivating Italian Garden and the serene trails of Piet Oudolf’s Rivers of Grass, to the distinct ‘Pods & Picnics’ experience, Trentham showcased excellence in all categories, leaving the assessors thoroughly impressed.
“We extend our heartfelt thanks to every visitor who makes it possible for us to grow and nurture this wonderful place for people, nature and wildlife to thrive.
“Here’s to creating more cherished memories together in the heart of Staffordshire.”
Meanwhile Ford Green Hall, in Stoke-on-Trent, Museum of Cannock Chase, Cannock, RSPB Coombes Valley and Consall Woods, near Leek, and Tamworth Castle picked up Welcome accolades.
World of Wedgwood, in Barlaston, near Stoke-on-Trent, was recognised in the Best Told Story category.
VisitEngland Director Andrew Stokes said upon revealing the winners: “These accolades are a testament to the outstanding experiences and customer service that attractions in England give visitors.
“They also recognise different aspects of the visitor experience with attractions who really go the extra mile, whether it’s offering exceptional food and drink or magical storytelling.
“The attractions honoured today go out of their way to make visits memorable, creating reasons for people to travel to new locations, also boosting local economies across England.”
