Two Lake District attractions have won gold in prestigious tourism awards.
VisitEngland announced the winners of its Visitor Attraction Accolades for 2024-2025.
Accolades were awarded to 78 English attractions covering all aspects of what makes an outstanding visitor experience.
Whinlatter Forest, near Keswick, and the Lakes Distillery, at Setmurthy, were both handed gold awards for overall excellence.
The accolades were awarded based on scores that attractions obtained following their annual VisitEngland Visitor Attraction Quality Scheme assessment.
Now in their 11th year, the awards are given to participants of the VisitEngland Visitor Attraction Quality Scheme across a range of tourism attractions from historic houses, gardens, country parks and farm attractions to galleries, museums, churches and cathedrals.
VisitEngland Director Andrew Stokes said: “These accolades put England’s outstanding attractions in the spotlight as they recognise the amazing visitor experiences available across the country, making them jewels of our tourism offer.”
It is the second year in a row Whinlatter Forest has scooped gold in the awards and the third time in five years.
Mark Holroyd, head of recreation and communications for Forestry England’s North District said: “This prestigious national award celebrates the Whinlatter recreation team’s unwavering dedication over many years to delivering consistently exceptional experiences and facilities for all our visitors.
“Such recognition is a fantastic achievement, but to do so for a second year running, as well as previously in 2021, really highlights the passion they have for truly outstanding customer service.”
