Double gold for Northumberland at national tourism awards
Northumberland has won two golds and silver at VisitEngland’s Awards for Excellence.
The Tempus, near Alnwick, won Small Hotel of the Year, while The Kirkstyle Inn and Sportsman's Rest in Slaggyford won Pub of the Year.
Wooler’s Ad Gefrin Anglo-Saxon Museum and Whisky Distillery won silver in the Small Visitor Attraction of the Year category – backing up its gold last year for Best New Tourism Business.
The Tempus, part of The Doxford Group which also operates Doxford Barns and Charlton Hall, was hailed for its carefully considered blend of northern heritage and modern-day luxury.
Richard Shell, CEO and owner of The Doxford Group, said: “Our ethos, from inception, has been to create a stand-out destination that people naturally gravitate towards, whether for quality time-out together with a boutique feel, a meal or special celebration with family or friends, or as a compelling reason to visit the region.
“To be named Small Hotel of the Year on the national stage is a huge win on two levels. It’s a win for The Tempus and the team behind the warm welcome and memorable guest experiences. And it’s a win for Northumberland, helping redefine perceptions and shine a light on just how forward-thinking and innovative the region’s hospitality scene really is.”
The VisitEngland Awards for Excellence have been running for more than 35 years and celebrate and champion the quality, innovation, best practice and exceptional customer service of England’s tourism industry.
The awards recognise businesses including hotels, self-catering accommodation, B&Bs, glamping operators, attractions, restaurants, pubs and museums and individuals who continuously raise the bar across the sector.
Tourism Minister Stephanie Peacock said: “I am delighted to see so many businesses across England being recognised for their outstanding work, helping to make people’s stays as enjoyable and memorable as possible.”
VisitEngland director Andrew Stokes said: “These awards showcase the exceptional quality, unparalleled customer service and innovation that drive our industry.
“I congratulate the wonderful range of first-class award recipients, all of whom are so passionate about tourism. They are all deserving winners.”
Tourism is one of England’s largest, most valuable industries - supporting hundreds of thousands of small-to-medium sized businesses, more than two million jobs and worth £127 billion to the economy in England.