VisitEngland revealed the winners of its Visitor Attraction Accolades for 2023-2024, recognising excellence within the visitor attraction sector, at a glitzy ceremony on Tuesday, October 22.

Corinium Museum staff were delighted to receive a Welcome Accolade for Customer Excellence presented by Lady Victoria Borwick, chair of the Visit England advisory board.

Accolades were awarded to 72 English attractions covering all aspects of what makes an outstanding visitor experience. The five categories include: 'Welcome'; 'Quality Food and Drink'; 'Hidden Gem'; 'Best Told Story'; and 'Gold' for overall excellence. The accolades were awarded based on scores that attractions obtained following their annual VisitEngland Visitor Attraction Quality Scheme assessment.

Corinium Museum is a visitor's gem in the heart of the Cotswolds with most visitors rating their visit excellent or very good. The museum showcases impressive archaeology found across the Cotswold District and prides itself on giving visitors the best experience possible, with a positive Customer Welcome from the Customer Advisors essential to an enjoyable visit.

Cllr Paul Hodgkinson, cabinet member for health, leisure and parking, said: "I'm really pleased VisitEngland has once again recognised the outstanding work of the Corinium Museum. The service and dedication of our staff truly reflect our commitment to delivering an exceptional visitor experience.

"This accreditation showcases our continued efforts to uphold high standards and ensure every guest leaves with lasting memories of the museum's treasures and our area's history. We take great pride in our cultural offerings here in the Cotswolds, with the Corinium Museum at the centre of it all. Congratulations to all involved!"

Ivan Horsfall Turner, Freedom Leisure CEO, said: "We are delighted that VisitEngland have recognised the Corinium with this award. The fantastic result recognises the hard work of our colleagues and the team of volunteers across the museum service and demonstrates that the visitor experience is second to none.

"Receiving excellent customer feedback and reviews is testament to the customer first approach and I'd like to thank Emma Stuart and everyone at the museum for offering an excellent service to the community and each and every visitor to this major tourist attraction in Cirencester."

VisitEngland director Andrew Stokes said: "These accolades highlight the wonderful visitor experiences provided by English attractions, from the warmest of welcomes to amazing food and drink, from great storytelling to outstanding customer service.

"Our tourism businesses are the bedrock of our industry and it is wonderful to highlight and celebrate the fantastic service and experiences they give visitors, time-after-time. From museums, gardens and nature reserves to farm attractions, estates and theme parks, these attractions go out of their way to make visits memorable."