Lincoln Castle and the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight Visitor Centre have both received Welcome Accolades, recognising them as amongst the best visitor attractions in the country.
Judges from VisitEngland scour the country for the best quality attractions, and the highest-scoring venues are awarded their prestigious Attraction Accolades. The two Lincolnshire venues have been highlighted for the warm and friendly welcome they provide to visitors.
Caroline Ward, Visitor Experience Manager at Lincoln Castle, said she was over the moon to receive the accolade:
“Our team of staff and volunteers work hard to ensure that everyone receives the best experience at Lincoln Castle.
“In what has been a challenging 18 months, we’ve offered a warm welcome and a reassuring smile to everyone that has walked through the castle’s gates. We look forward to welcoming more visitors and continuing to share the fascinating history of this magnificent site.’’
The 11th-century castle turned tourist hotspot is now gearing up to welcome tens of thousands of visitors over the festive period for the Lincoln Christmas Market, followed by their magical Lincoln Castle Illuminated event.
Angie Clay, Visitor Experience Manager for Battle of Britain Memorial Flight (BBMF) Visitor Centre, said:
“We're absolutely thrilled that the work the team have put in over the last 18 months to make a trip to the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight Visitor Centre special has been recognised with this award, especially as we have received it coming off the back of such a difficult time, so it feels even more special."
Located within the boundaries of RAF Coningsby, the attraction allows visitors to immerse themselves in Lincolnshire’s aviation heritage and provides a rare and unique opportunity to see historic wartime aircraft up-close.
Cllr Lindsey Cawrey, executive member for cultural services, said:
“I am delighted that two of our iconic venues have received national recognition.
"After throwing open their doors to welcome thousands of visitors as COVID restrictions eased last year, I am so pleased for our staff, at Lincoln Castle and the BBMF Visitor Centre, who have worked tirelessly and with imagination and humour to keep these venues open and safe.
"We mustn’t underestimate the importance of a warm welcome, especially in uncertain times, and these awards are a wonderful tribute to our staff across all our venues.
“Greater Lincolnshire's visitor economy is estimated to be worth over £2.39bn a year, and it’s fantastic that awards like this recognise the high-quality of our visitor offer, put Lincolnshire in the national spotlight, and help us keep our visitor economy thriving.”
Keep up to date with what’s on at Lincoln Castle at www.lincolncastle.com, or plan your visit to the BBMF at www.lincolnshire.gov.uk/bbmf.