Northumberland takes home silver and bronze in national tourism awards

St Cuthbert’s House in North Sunderland, Seahouses, took silver in the B&B and Guesthouse of the Year category.

Owner Jill Sutheran said: “It’s a real honour for us to win silver at these national awards.

"It’s great for our own business, of course, but we’re also very proud to be flying the flag for Northumberland and highlighting the fact that there are top-quality experiences to be had here.”

Husband Jeff added: “We’re delighted that our determination to provide an unforgettable guest experience in this amazing area has brought us this national award.

"There were some fantastic tourism businesses from around the whole country in the mix, and to be judged as worthy of the silver award is just wonderful.”

Restaurant Hjem at Wall, near Hexham, scooped bronze in the Taste of England Award category.

Ally Thompson, who runs the restaurant and adjoining pub, The Hadrian with her partner and Hjem head chef Alex Nietosvuori, said: “We were delighted to have been shortlisted in these national awards alongside established and Michelin-starred restaurants, and we’re honoured to have been given the bronze award.

“The lockdown meant we weren’t able to celebrate our one-year anniversary in May, so I think we might be using this as a great excuse to have a bit of a belated party with everyone who has helped us realise our dream.”

The esteemed awards were held virtually on Monday night.

David Hall, chairman of Northumberland Tourism, said: “The awards acknowledge the sheer excellence of Northumberland’s tourism offering. Our businesses go the extra mile to ensure the highest quality of service, leaving visitors with memories that make them come back time and time again.”

Cllr Cath Homer, cabinet member for tourism at Northumberland County Council, said: “Time and time again Northumberland is recognised as a top tourism destination and this is testament to the businesses that make up our diverse tourism sector.

"We're so lucky to have such a fantastic tourism offering, meaning whether visitors are discovering Northumberland for the first time or are seasoned travellers they are guaranteed to make memories that last a lifetime.”

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