Delight as Shropshire attractions scoop prestige tourism awards

The Ironbridge Gorge Museum was named best family day out at the 2015 Hudson's Heritage Awards this week.

Meanwhile Upton Cressett Hall, near Bridgnorth, was named runner-up for Best Accommodation.

William Cash, who lives at Upton Cressett Hall, said: "Shropshire really is key in bringing tourism to the area and to be a runner-up to such a brilliant place has made us very proud.

"Getting the runner-up spot I would say is down to the hard work of our interior designer Laura, who has worked very hard by making the home modern but also keeping the traditional look.

"We are just very proud to have received this award and to be a part of such a great place in the country for tourism.

"Shropshire prides itself in being a key driving force for attracting people from all over the world and this award highlights that."

Paul Gossage, director of marketing and PR at Ironbridge Gorge Museum Trust, added: "Winning one of these awards demonstrates the high standards and commitment we offer our visitors to ensure their experience is the very best.

"It is an acknowledgement and recognition that our museums are amongst the elite of heritage attractions in the UK."

Established in 2011, the annual awards are an independently-judged national scheme open to historic houses, gardens, museums and heritage sites and celebrate the very best visitor experiences.

Sarah Greenwood, publisher of Hudson's Historic Houses & Gardens, said: "The judges consider everything about the visitor experience from what you can do to refreshments, toilets and merchandise as well as innovative events, exhibitions, weddings and celebrations."

The awards were presented by historian and broadcaster Dan Snow at Goldsmiths Hall in London.