National Award Nominations for Northumberland’s Best Tourism Businesses.

Northumberland businesses who tasted success in this year’s North East Tourism Awards have now been shortlisted for national recognition.

Competition for the VisitEngland Tourism Awards is intense and not all businesses who gain regional success are considered for the top national prizes.  Those shortlisted this year hope to follow the footsteps of Kielder Water & Forest Park who were named ‘England’s Best Tourism Experience’ in 2013.

This year Northumberland has 3 finalists; in the Bed & Breakfast/Guest Accommodation category we are represented by St Cuthbert’s House, Seahouses and in the Holiday Park/Holiday Village category Northumberland has two finalists; Leaplish Waterside Park (Northumbrian Water Ltd) and Seafield Caravan Park, Seahouses.

Jude Leitch, of Northumberland Tourism said: “The quality of Northumberland’s tourism experience continues to rise, led by inspirational businesses like these.  These businesses are our crème de la crème, continually focussed on innovation and creativity and providing unequalled service which exceeds the demands of our visitors.  We wish them every success as they now compete with the best that England has to offer.”

David Hall of Northumbrian Water said: “Kielder Water & Forest Park’s success in winning ‘Best Tourism Experience’ in the 2013 VisitEngland Awards has provided invaluable opportunities to promote Kielder as a quality tourism destination.  The national stamp of approval gives us a valuable endorsement which is trusted by potential visitors and inspires them to find out more.  The significant benefits of our win last year has encouraged us to apply again and we’re delighted that the improvements recently made at Leaplish Waterside Park now also have the chance to be recognised.”

The winners of the 2014 VisitEngland Awards will be announced on the 12 May at a glittering awards ceremony held at Cheltenham Racecourse.