If you're making plans for the upcoming May bank holidays or summer break, there are a number of incredible venues for a day out or staycation right here in England. VisitEngland has celebrated all that is on offer with its Awards for Excellence, covering everything from the best Bed & Breakfast to the best Family Friendly Accommodation. Read on for details on some of the winners…
Best Afternoon Tea: Countess of York, Yorkshire
Enjoy afternoon tea in this beautifully restored Pullman-style carriage that has been converted into an Edwardian-style dining car. Launched in 2015 as a joint venture between the Science Museum Group and Levy Restaurants UK, the carriage has become recognised as one of the best destinations for afternoon tea in York, with chefs creating menus that use delicious locally-sourced produce. Find out more at nrm.org.uk.
Best Bed & Breakfast: St Cuthbert's House, Northumberland
Ideally located for an English beach break, St Cuthbert's House bed & breakfast is located in a former chapel dating from 1810 that sits on the Northumberland coast. The accommodation features six beautifully restored guest rooms that incorporate many of the original features including the old pulpit and original wooden flooring. Book your stay at stcuthbertshouse.com.
Best Boutique/ Guest Accommodation: Glazebrook House Hotel, Devon
The Glazebrook House Hotel is a luxurious boutique hotel and restaurant with incredible vintage and retro-inspired interiors, with each room decorated completely differently. From a Mad Hatter room to the Caterpillar room, each guestroom features incredible attention to detail with handcrafted furniture and luxurious finishing touches. Get more information at glazebrookhouse.com.
Best Family Friendly Accommodation: Bosinver Farm Cottages (Sponsored by Family Traveller)
Looking for the perfect summer family holiday accommodation? You won't be disappointed with Bosinver Farm Cottages, which are set in 30 acres of Cornish wildflower meadows and feature incredible facilities for all of the family to enjoy. An indoor swimming pool, play barn, games room, outdoor play areas and pony rides – all at no extra cost – are the details that set this accommodation apart from the competition. Book your stay at bosinver.co.uk.
Best Family Friendly Attraction: Thames Rockets, London
Putting a fun spin on the traditional river cruises, Thames Rockets feature hand-picked actors and stand-up comics as tour guides on-board their 12 seater speedboats. When it travels past Tower Bridge the music turns up and the Rockets are pushed to the max, twisting and turning through the docklands. Get all the details at thamesrockets.com.
Best Family Friendly Food & Drink: Chester Zoo
Chester Zoo has been recognised due to the team of expert staff who are dedicated to providing the highest standards of care for the 15,000 exotic and endangered animals that live within its 125 acre site. As well as providing a fun and educational day out for 1.9 million visitors, the zoo also focuses on developing new conservation initiatives to protect UK and international wildlife. Plan your day out at chesterzoo.org.
Best Holiday Park: Trethem Mill Touring Park, Cornwall
This multi-award winning holiday park is nestled in a valley on the Roseland Peninsula in Cornwall, an area of outstanding natural beauty and the perfect destination for your summer holiday. Set to celebrate its 25th anniversary in 2017, this family run site features 84 individually hedged pitches that are suitable for caravans, motorhomes and tents, all just one mile away from the beach. See more at tretham.com.
Best Hotel: Northcote, Lancashire
Offering luxury accommodation and fine-dining at its Michelin star restaurant, Northcote in Lancashire is a must-visit for foodies. The restaurant has retained its Michelin star since 1996 thanks to its commitment to serving regional and British produce in outstanding dishes created by Chef Patron Nigel and Executive Head Chef Lisa Allen. Plan your visit at Northcote.com.
Best Dog Friendly Business: Letheringham Water Mill Holiday Cottages, Suffolk
Can't bear to be separated from your pet pooch during your holiday? Now you don't need to be, with a stay at Letheringham Water Mill Holiday Cottages, set in the heart of rural Suffolk. The safe site allows dogs to run free and features three riverside decked cottages and The Mill House, all set beside the River Deben. Get more information at letheringhammill.co.uk.
Best Large Visitor Attraction: Waddesdon Manor, Buckinghamshire
This huge National Trust property offers something for everyone, including families, art lovers and foodies. As well as featuring a country house hotel, restaurant and cafés, the manor has its own contemporary exhibition space and landscaped grounds where a number of outdoor activities can take place. See more at waddesdon.org.uk.