Nottinghamshire, UK – Friday 21st March 2025 – The Nottinghamshire Tourism Awards, an event celebrating the best in the region’s tourism, leisure, culture and hospitality sectors, held a spectacular ceremony last night at the East Midlands Conference Centre. Among the night’s many honours, Southwell Minster was awarded Visitor Attraction of the Year, an accolade recognising outstanding places that provide truly memorable experiences and demonstrate excellence across every aspect of their organisation.
This prestigious award was presented to Southwell Minster for its dedication to hospitality, culture and sustainable success. Staff members Sarah Clemson and Ruth Massey accepted the award on behalf of the Dean and Chapter, and the hundreds of volunteers who work alongside the small staff team to make the Minster a remarkable place for visitors.
The Nottinghamshire Tourism Awards include 14 categories covering a wide range of tourism, from hotels, B&Bs and campsites to pubs, visitor attractions and unique experiences. These categories highlight the breadth of the region’s tourism landscape and the remarkable people and businesses that make it thrive.
The judges’ findings for Southwell Minster were particularly glowing:
‘“Hospitality in the name of Jesus Christ is at the heart of what we are about.” This sentiment is not just a phrase on the website, nor is it an ambition; it is an action that underpins the cultural, religious and sustainable success of Southwell Minster. At this building which has stood for a thousand years, I felt welcomed from the moment I entered the cathedral gates to leaving the visitor shop. Despite the age and religious significance of this landmark, every visitor is treated equally and is made to feel a guest of God, irrespective of their religion. I will be back for the many concerts and exhibitions.”’
With this win, Southwell Minster will now be put forward for national recognition at the VisitEngland Awards for Excellence. The Minster’s remarkable achievement puts it in the running for a prestigious national title, further affirming its place as a key cultural landmark in Nottinghamshire.
The Nottinghamshire Tourism Awards serve as a vital platform to celebrate the best in tourism, showcasing excellence and best practices in the region.
