Three silvers for Lancashire destinations

Three Lancashire tourist destinations returned from the Visit England Awards for Excellence 2018 clutching silver medals.

The Cartford Inn in Little Eccleston earned recognition in the Tourism Pub of the Year category, Browsholme Hall of Clitheroe in the Sustainable Tourism category, and Ascent Trampoline Park in Blackpool in the New Tourism Business section.

The national Visit England Awards for Excellence, now in their 29th year, celebrate businesses and individuals who excel in the delivery of tourism excellence across England.

The three businesses got the opportunity to compete for a Visit England award after winning in their respective categories at the county’s Lancashire Tourism Awards in November 2017.

This latest success adds another accolade to a long list at The Cartford Inn which, only this year, was named in the prestigious Top 50 Gastropubs and was awarded two AA Rosettes. The multi-award-winning pub, on the banks of the River Wyre, is owned by Patrick and Julie Beaume with talented chef Chris Bury leading the kitchen. It is now recognised as one of the best places to eat out in the county and boasts new luxury lodges and rooms for the ultimate gourmet break.

For Browsholme Hall this national award is reward for their dedication and commitment to sustainability. The Parkers, a family who have lived at the historic home since 1507, have introduced eco-friendly, sustainable methods to the heritage building. Their success in the Lancashire Tourism Awards led to talks with Lancaster University about the potential development of hydroelectricity using the hall’s lakes.

Amanda Parker said: “As a Grade I listed building, we can’t put in double glazing or solar panels so it’s about working with what we have. We know we can’t do everything but it’s about making the most of those things we can do.”

Despite being open little over a year, Ascent Trampoline Park has attracted visitors in their droves. At 40,00 sq ft, it is the largest trampoline park in the UK and has more than 100 trampolines, a flip zone, dodgeball, slam dunk basketball, foam pits, an air bag and a ninja assault course. VisitEngland chief executive Sally Balcombe said “These Visit England Awards for Excellence 2018 shine a spotlight on our fantastic tourism industry, with the winners showcasing the quality, innovation and excellence on offer throughout the country. These winners provide outstanding and truly memorable visitor experiences.”