Derbyshire strikes gold in national Visitor Attraction Accolades

Derbyshire has struck gold in the national accolades designed to showcase visitor attractions that go the extra mile to provide a high-quality day out.

Three local tourism businesses have received recognition in the VisitEngland 2021-2022 Visitor Attraction Accolades which celebrate the quality and diversity of visitor experiences across the country – with Derbyshire taking home two of three Gold accolades for the East Midlands.

Chatsworth and The Heights of Abraham each received a prestigious Gold accolade, whilst Denby Pottery Village won the coveted accolade for Best Told Story.

The winning attractions have gained the accolades based on scores received following their annual VisitEngland Visitor Attraction Quality Scheme assessments. Marks were allocated for the outstanding experiences they provide to visitors across categories including Welcome, Best Told Story, Quality Food & Drink, Hidden Gem and Gold for overall winners.

Jo Dilley, Managing Director of Marketing Peak District & Derbyshire said: “It’s fantastic to see three of Derbyshire’s brilliant attractions flying the flag for our outstanding visitor offer in these prestigious VisitEngland accolades.

“Derbyshire has so many unmissable attractions that deliver unforgettable experiences for visitors and residents alike, and this is a timely reminder of the value, variety and sheer quality of the area’s tourism industry.”

Gavin Lewis, Denby Pottery Village Manager added: “Denby Pottery Village is delighted to achieve the VisitEngland Attraction Accolade for Best Told Story which is testament to the quality of the new visitor experiences that are available.

“Tours of the pottery were relaunched earlier this year and there is now an option to tour Denby's Museum showing Denby's rich history. Visitors also receive a warm welcome at Denby's Craft Studio, we have great eateries and shopping options, plus seasonal events throughout the year – and so given all the hard work the Denby team puts into all these areas of our offer, it’s fantastic to get this kind of recognition.”

Rupert Pugh, Development Director at The Heights of Abraham said: “To come through the Covid pandemic and secure this Gold Accolade award is wonderful news for everyone who works at The Heights of Abraham. This year we’ve added more attractions and features than ever before, and made sure that our guests receive a truly warm welcome. The judging criteria is tough, particularly to secure Gold status, so we’re especially delighted with the result.”

Pamela Pearson, Visitor Experience Development Manager at Chatsworth added: “We are delighted to receive this award from VisitEngland, which recognises the hard work of our teams and our commitment to going the extra mile to deliver an excellent visitor experience. This year, we celebrated creativity with a free exhibition of monumental sculpture, 'Radical Horizons: The Art of Burning Man at Chatsworth', in the parkland. It's wonderful to be one of the 97 award-winning attractions in England, congratulations to all the winners.”

ENDS

High resolution image attached: The Heights of Abraham, Matlock Bath was one of three Derbyshire attractions recognised in the VisitEngland 2021-22 Visitor Attraction Accolades.

Further images available on request.

For all press enquiries, please contact Amy Noton at 07387 141590 or amy.noton@marketingpdd.com

Notes to editors

See the full list of attractions to receive VisitEngland 2021-22 Visitor Attraction Accolades here.

Find out more about the VisitEngland Visitor Attraction Quality Scheme here.

Marketing Peak District & Derbyshire

Marketing Peak District & Derbyshire’s mission is to develop and grow a successful and sustainable tourism economy, working closely with a wide range of partners to make the Peak District and Derbyshire the destination of choice – regionally, nationally and globally.

For more information visit www.visitpeakdistrict.com/industry

Inspiration on things to see and do, and where to stay, in the Peak District and Derbyshire is available at www.visitpeakdistrict.com