Blenheim Palace has received three Silver awards in the Tourism South East Beautiful South Excellence Awards 2011. These prestigious Awards are often called the ‘Tourism Oscars’ for the high status they have achieved within the industry. Winners in this region will go on to compete in the national EnjoyEngland Awards for Excellence in 2012.

Sixteen South East tourism businesses were awarded the region’s highest accolade at the Beautiful South’s Awards for Excellence 2011 held at Denbies Wine Estate, Surrey on 1 December. The categories in which Blenheim Palace has received Silver are Large Visitor Attraction of the Year, Sustainability, and Sports Tourism Award for Bike Blenheim Palace.

The annual Beautiful South Awards are now in their 21st year and recognise businesses and destinations across the tourism industry for their exceptional levels of customer service and dedication to raising standards. A high number of entries to the prestigious Awards led to an impressive shortlist with winners announced by hosts Sue Saville, Managing Director, Tourism South East and John Williams, Chairman of Tourism South East. Gold winners from across the region include Chatham Historic Dockyard in Kent, Royal Ascot in Berkshire and Aviator in Hampshire.

‘We offer our congratulations to all tonight’s winners’, said John Williams. ‘Our industry’s commitment to providing the best possible customer experience and to exceeding customer expectations is outstanding. The Award winners have shown that they are truly the best-in-class and we look forward to seeing them on the national stage at the VisitEngland Awards for Excellence 2012. The current economic climate continues to present many challenges for the tourism industry - however, the standards achieved by our Award winners this year show their determination to provide their visitors and guests with memorable and outstanding experiences.’

Hannah Payne, Marketing and PR Manager, Blenheim Palace comments: “To receive three Silver awards is a wonderful accolade for our business as we work hard to provide the highest standards for our visitors across everything we do; from working towards sustainable tourism to conceiving new and exciting events, it’s a huge team effort. We’re looking forward to entering the EnjoyEngland Awards for Excellence in 2012”

www.blenheimpalace.com

(Photo shows Bike Blenheim Palace)