WWT Slimbridge wins Gold and Silver at the Bristol, Bath and Somerset Tourism Awards 2022
WWT Slimbridge is delighted to have won gold for the Large Visitor Attraction of the Year and silver for the Accessible and Inclusive Tourism Award.
On 1st December, more than fifty finalists from tourism businesses across Bristol, Bath, Somerset and the wider region attended a gala dinner at the Winter Gardens in Weston-Super-Mare. The prestigious ceremony was hosted by broadcaster and presenter Laura Rawlings and former professional cricketer and PGA gold professional Peter Trego.
WWT Slimbridge applied for the awards earlier this year and were announced as finalists in both categories alongside major visitor attractions Noah’s Ark Zoo Farm and The Roman Baths. Slimbridge were crowned winners in the Large Visitor Attraction of the Year sponsored by Visit Somerset.
Slimbridge was also awarded silver for Accessible and Inclusive Tourism Award sponsored by Visit South Somerset, with gold being awarded to Noah’s Ark Zoo Farm.
Gary Haseley- Nejrup, General Manager of WWT Slimbridge says;
“Winning gold for the Large Visitor Attraction of the Year category and silver for the Accessible and Inclusive category is a massive achievement for all our team at WWT Slimbridge. We wouldn’t have been able to achieve these awards without the amazing support of our staff, volunteers and all our members and visitors. We are thrilled to receive these awards which recognises that Slimbridge provides a truly memorable visitor experience for everyone including those with accessibility requirements.
All of WWT’s wetland centres exist to fulfil founder Sir Peter Scott’s vision of connecting people with nature, and aim for wetlands and wildlife to be accessible to everyone. Congratulations to all the award winners, particularly the other attractions in our category, Noah’s Ark Zoo Farm and The Roman Baths who are exceptional attractions.
A big thank you to the award sponsors, as winners of the Bristol, Bath and Somerset Awards, Slimbridge will go to the South West Tourism Awards next year- so wish us luck!”
The award recognises that Slimbridge provide a truly memorable visitor experience for everyone - particularly those with accessibility requirements, and demonstrate excellence across every aspect of their business. Accessibility highlights include a Changing Places facility, wheelchair-friendly Wild Safaris for wider access to the 800 acres reserve, the accessible Estuary Tower Hide and the Summer Walkway and viewing platform, with access to the banks of the Severn Estuary.
Giles Adams, Chair of Visit Somerset added;
“Once again we have been able to celebrate, acknowledge and reward those who work hard to achieve the best. The visitor economy is evolving and I congratulate these dynamic businesses that are demonstrating how to engage with it and formulate outstanding product offers and service levels that will perpetuate Somerset’s reputation as a brilliant destination”.
Awards Director, Nell Barrington commented;
“It was just great to see these tourism and hospitality businesses get rewarded for their hard work, enthusiasm and excellence. A massive well done to them all.I also wanted to say these awards would not be possible without our fantastic sponsors, supporters and team of volunteer judges so a big thank you must go to them”.
