Boost for the region’s expanding tourism sector.
Sixteen attractions in the West Midlands have been recognised by VisitEngland as providing outstanding experiences for visitors – more than any other region in the UK. The attractions include Aston Hall; Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery; British Motor Museum; Cadbury World; Sarehole Mill; The Coffin Works; Thinktank; Winterbourne House & Garden.
Reacting to the news, Nicola Hewitt, Commercial Director at the West Midlands Growth Company, said: “The decision to award Attractions Accolades to more West Midlands venues than anywhere else in the UK is further proof of the region making its mark in the tourism sector. This area recorded more domestic and international visitors than ever last year – fuelled by the strength, variety and welcome of its attractions.
“With Coventry becoming the UK City of Culture in 2021 and Birmingham hosting the Commonwealth Games in 2022, this is the West Midlands’ time to shine. The region’s attractions have an important role to play as increasing numbers of new visitors seek interesting and exciting days out while they’re here.
“We congratulate the hard work of our tourism partners in consistently providing quality experiences for our visitors and hope that these awards and recognition encourage more people to come and explore what’s on offer across the region.”
VisitEngland’s Attractions Accolades, now in their fifth year, can be attained by members of the VisitEngland Visitor Attraction Quality Scheme in categories including the Welcome Accolade, Hidden Gem, Best Told Story, Quality Food and Drink and the Gold Accolade for all-round top-scoring attractions.
Members of VisitEngland’s Visitor Attraction Quality Scheme represent a wide range of tourism experiences across England including museums and galleries, farm attractions, historic houses and gardens as well as churches, cathedrals and country parks. They are supported by a network of highly trained assessors who advise on improving and promoting the quality, accessibility and sustainability of their offer.
Tourism is worth an estimated £127 billion to the UK economy annually, creating jobs and boosting economic growth.
