Hartlebury Castle has received a Gold Award from Visit England, recognising ‘excellence across all areas of the visitor experience’.
The popular attraction was praised across the board – from planning how to get there to the gift shop.
The venue was assessed by Visit England’s Visitor Attraction Accolades team which examined a variety of criteria, including visitor welcome, displays, cleanliness and catering.
Assessed as an attraction where ‘visitors could not fail to be impressed’, Hartlebury Castle tells the stories of the former Bishops of Worcester in the ‘delightful Bishop’s Palace’, shares the history of the county in Worcestershire County Museum with exhibitions which ‘offer something for everybody’ and provides opportunities to ‘relax in the attractive grounds and gardens’.
‘Plenty of praise’
Also highlighted by the judges were the ‘excellent cafe and retail offer’ and its programme of events.
The stand-out feature of the visit was the staff and volunteers, with a criteria score of 98 per cent and noted as the ‘highlight of the day’.
The score was based on interactions with everyone across the site and focused on their levels of customer care, efficiency and knowledge.
Steve Bagnall, Director of the Hartlebury Castle Trust, said: “We’re very excited, and grateful, to receive the Gold Award Accolade.
“It is a testimony to the commitment of volunteers and staff, providing an exceptional day out for visitors of all ages.”
Rachel Robinson, Worcestershire County Museum’s development manager, added: everyone was so pleased to receive the gold accolade.
“This award is a recognition of the hard work carried out by the whole team to make Hartlebury Castle a gold standard visitor experience.”
Previous accolades for Hartlebury Castle from Visit England have included ‘Hidden Gem’ and ‘Best Told Story’.
The historic house is open to the public across the year.
Visit: hartleburycastle.com for more.
