The enthusiasm and commitment of staff and volunteers at a medieval Leicestershire attraction has earned it nominations for two prestigious Visit England awards.
The historic 1620s House and Garden, at Donington le Heath, could win recognition in the ‘Welcome’ as well as ‘Hidden Gem’ categories, following a glowing inspection report from the national tourism body.
The medieval manor site, which is managed by Leicestershire County Council, received its highest marks yet from Visit England.
It was awarded an overall quality score of 91 per cent in this year’s inspection.
In the report, the inspector said: “A strength of this assessment visit was the quality of welcome and interpretation provided by the staff, in particular the reception staff, and garden volunteers.”
It was noted that the house and garden are maintained to the highest standard – with the appearance of the garden being described as “stunning”.
A perfect score was also achieved in the cleanliness section, with the inspector stating: “The entire attraction was presented to exceptional levels of cleanliness and remained so throughout the visit.”
The inspector’s report also praised the commitment to engagement with social media, the quality of welcome and interpretation provided by the staff, house and garden volunteers, and the impressive food range available at the Barn Café, describing the food quality and presentation as “excellent.”
Councillor Christine Radford, cabinet member for heritage, leisure and arts, said: “I am delighted that the hard work of the staff and volunteers at the 1620s House & Garden has been recognised yet again by such a prestigious visitor organisation as Visit England. Their dedication has shone through and continues to do so.”
More information about 1620s House & Garden, including opening times and admission prices, is available at www.1620sHouse.org.uk.
