The Colloquy
The Colloquy, in Hereford, won the Best Self Catering Accommodation award for its high quality experience, amazing surroundings and additional services which can be organised for all guests – including a naked butler.
Joanna Hilditch, Owner of the Colloquy, said: “I would definitely recommend other tourism providers to enter the awards.
“There is no doubt that it is a great help to our marketing and profile in the self catering industry. We have enjoyed increased bookings over the last year from people who expect the highest standard from accommodation and know they will find it if they come to such an award winning property.”
Blists Hill Victorian Town - Ironbridge
Blists Hill Victorian Town, Ironbridge won the Best Large Visitor Attraction award for offering a great day out for people of all ages and interactively combining education with a fun experience.
Paul Gossage, Head of Marketing said: “Winning has greatly enhanced our profile, amongst visitors, industry associates and the press. Visitors are always attracted to winners and the gold logo has become a 'badge of honour' that we use on our leaflets and website.”
Shakespeare Houses and Gardens
Shakespeare Houses and Gardens, which give a realistic portrayal of life in Shakespeare’s lifetime, won Best Tourism Experience for their high quality visitor experience in 2009. The attraction had invested in modern technology, including commentary by Patrick Stewart, one of the nation’s favourite Shakespearian actors, to enhance the visitor experience.
Consumer Marketing Manger Lynn Kimmins said: “2009 was the first time we had entered the awards and the entry process allowed us to look at the fascinating story behind the Shakespeare Houses and Gardens.
“Winning the award was great for staff and visitors alike, providing a positive message about the offering from Shakespeare Houses and Gardens. I would definitely recommend other tourism providers enter the 2010 Awards.”
Alton Towers
Alton Towers, in Staffordshire, scoped the publicly voted Best Day Out award.
Morwenna Angove, Sales and Marketing Director, said: “We were delighted and honoured to have won My Best Day Out category at the 2009 awards.
“It’s not only a reflection of our fantastic offering here at the Alton Towers Resort but perfectly illustrates how we complement tourism as a whole in the West Midlands.
“Our aim is to ensure that our guests have a fantastic day out or short break so being voted for by the public is especially meaningful.”
Cadbury World
Debbie Bisseker from Cadbury World, Birmingham won the Outstanding Customer Care Award for going the extra mile and managing a team of 80 staff, all working to ensure that visitors have the best possible experience.
Lucy Giaquinto, Marketing Manager said, “We would recommend entering the Excellence in Tourism Awards as they are seen as the industry standard so to be recognised by this organisation carries prestige. It also allows you to benchmark your attraction against others within the region.”
Hidelow House Cottages
Hidelow House Cottages, in Worcestershire, scooped two gold awards for Sustainable Tourism and Access for All.
Pauline Diplock, owner of Hidelow House Cottages, said she would recommend other tourism providers enter the Excellence in Tourism Awards.
“The Awards provide a showcase for high quality tourism businesses, which identifies diversity and attracts customers to our region.
“We have gone on to win a silver at the National EnjoyEngland Excellence in Tourism Awards in the Tourism For All category and have benefitted from the associated publicity.
“With the added improvements we are making, we will definitely be entering this year to defend our crown”