A popular local attraction has been honoured with a top award from Visit England.
Hartlebury Castle has been awarded the Gold Award Accolade, which recognises excellence across all areas of the visitor experience from planning how to get there to the final trip to the gift shop.
Assessed by Visit England's Visitor Attraction Accolades team, criteria include visitor welcome, displays, cleanliness and catering.
Assessed as an attraction where "visitors cannot fail to be impressed", Hartlebury Castle tells the stories of the former Bishops of Worcester in the "delightful Bishop’s Palace", shares the history of the county in the Worcestershire County Museum with exhibitions which "offer something for everybody", and provides opportunities to relax in the "attractive grounds and gardens".
Steve Bagnall, Director of Hartlebury Castle Trust, said: "We’re very excited, and grateful, to receive the Gold Award Accolade.
"It is a testimony to the commitment of volunteers and staff, providing an exceptional day out for visitors of all ages."
The assessment also praised the excellent café and retail offer alongside a wide-ranging programme of events.
The standout feature of the visit was the staff and volunteers, with a criteria score of 98 per cent and described as the "highlight of the day".
The score is based on interactions with everyone across the site, and focuses on their levels of customer care, efficiency and knowledge.
Rachel Robinson, development manager at Worcestershire County Museum, added: "We are so pleased to receive the Gold Visitor Attraction Accolade for Hartlebury Castle.
"This award is a recognition of the hard work carried out by the whole team to make Hartlebury Castle a gold standard visitor experience."
Previous accolades for Hartlebury Castle from Visit England have included Hidden Gem and Best Told Story.
The historic house is open to the public throughout the year.
More information about the attraction and visiting can be found at www.hartleburycastle.com
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