## VisitEngland Celebrates Excellence in Tourism with 2023-2024 Visitor Attraction Accolades
On October 22, 2024, VisitEngland proudly unveiled the winners of its coveted Visitor Attraction Accolades for 2023-2024, highlighting the exceptional contributions of 72 attractions across England. These awards acknowledge the commitment to quality and innovation that defines the nation’s tourism landscape.
Across five categories – ‘Welcome,’ ‘Quality Food and Drink,’ ‘Hidden Gem,’ ‘Best Told Story,’ and the prestigious ‘Gold’ award – the winners represent a diverse range of attractions, from captivating museums and sprawling gardens to enchanting nature reserves and bustling theme parks. Each recipient embodies a dedication to delivering unforgettable visitor experiences.
The accolades are a testament to the success of VisitEngland’s Visitor Attraction Quality Scheme, which provides expert guidance and assessments to help attractions enhance their quality, accessibility, and sustainability. Winners proudly display the accolade logo, showcasing their commitment to exceeding visitor expectations and enhancing their marketing efforts.
Andrew Stokes, Director of VisitEngland, emphasized the importance of these awards, stating: “These accolades showcase the exceptional visitor experiences English attractions deliver, from warm welcomes and delicious food to captivating storytelling and outstanding customer service. Our tourism businesses are the foundation of the industry, and it is an honor to recognize their dedication to making each visit memorable.”
This year’s awards ceremony, held at the British Motor Museum in Warwickshire, celebrated the tenth anniversary of the accolade program. The program has consistently provided invaluable support to attractions, assisting them in achieving excellence in every facet of the visitor experience.
The impact of tourism on England’s economy cannot be overstated. In 2023 alone, over 200,000 businesses contributed significantly to the nation’s prosperity, generating £70.5 billion in domestic visitor spending. VisitEngland continues to play a crucial role in strengthening this vital sector, offering quality assessment services that raise standards and promote innovation.
The Visitor Attraction Quality Scheme rigorously evaluates attractions based on key criteria, including accessibility, food and drink offerings, customer service, and storytelling. The scheme ensures that visitors enjoy an exceptional experience, while simultaneously empowering attractions to identify areas for improvement and further enhance their offerings. By recognizing and rewarding excellence, VisitEngland fosters a culture of continuous improvement within the tourism sector, ensuring that England remains a world-renowned destination for travelers seeking unforgettable experiences.