/Travel awards shortlist revealed

THE Lowry Hotel and Gallery Oldham have made it to the final of the most prestigious awards in English tourism.

VisitEngland has announced the finalists for the Awards for Excellence 2017, which celebrate businesses and individuals from across England who champion the very best practice and excellence in customer service.

Ten attractions in the North West region have made the cut, with the popular hotel and the art gallery representing Greater Manchester’s contribution to the list.

Gallery Oldham, which offers a wide range of exhibitions and activities targeted at different audiences of all ages, is in the running to be named best familyfriendly attraction of the year.

The Lowry meanwhile, has been shortlisted in the GREAT China Welcome category, for its contribution to attracting the Chinese market to the city, as is the Lake District China Forum.

Further afield, The Art School restaurant in Liverpool is on the shortlist for the Taste of England award.

The Chester Grosvener and Spa has made the shortlist for the best afternoon tea award,

Chester Zoo is one of only two nominations in the family friendly food and drink business of the year category.

Shiverpool, which offers guided ‘ghost walks’ around Liverpool, is shortlisted for the guided tour of the year award.

Park Cliffe Camping and Caravan Estate in Windermere is up for holiday park or village of the year, while the Northcote in Blackburn is up for hotel of the year. The Waternook Estate in Penrith is up for self-catering holiday provider of the year, while over in Wales, the Blencathra Centre is up for the sustainable tourism award.

VisitEngland chief executive Sally Balcombe said: “The awards shine a spotlight on an industry driven by the highest-calibre people and organisations who deliver unforgettable experiences for visitors, raising the profile of England as a world-class destination and driving the economic benefits of tourism across the regions.”

The winners will be announced at a ceremony on Monday, April 25 at the Hilton Waldorf in London.