The Beacon Museum in Whitehaven has been named a top tourism attraction for ‘Quality Food & Drink’ at the prestigious ‘VisitEngland Visitor Attraction Accolades’ for 2023-2024.
The awards celebrate excellence within the tourism sector, recognising attractions that go the extra mile in providing high quality services.
The Beacon Museum works in collaboration with local artisan bakery and café, Howling Wolf for its food offering which is operated by husband and wife team Carmina and Beniamin Ardelean. Since opening in May 2023, the café, located on the lower floor of the museum, has achieved remarkable success by offering a menu crafted from locally sourced ingredients that complements the museums visitor experience. From fresh handmade bread, pastries, and cakes to partnerships with local coffee roasters, tea suppliers, butchers and shop owners.
Cllr Anne Quilter, Cumberland Council’s Executive Member for Vibrant and Healthy Places, said:
“Well done to The Beacon Museum and Howling Wolf. Their quality food and drink has been recognised and they’ve now received a distinguished award. Other attractions within our region have also received awards – highlighting our strong tourism offer and providing even more reason to make a visit.”
Heather Holmes, The Beacon Museum’s Customer and Visitor Experience Manager added:
“The journey we have been on with both Ben and Carmina has been an exciting one and to be recognised by Visit England in this way is a true testament to the success of this partnership.
“Being able to relax and unwind whilst enjoying a great coffee with a view is what makes a visit to The Beacon Museum extra special.”
The Beacon Museum’s award was presented as part of the VisitEngland Visitor Attraction Quality scheme, which saw 72 attractions from across England honoured for their exceptional visitor experiences.
Categories for the award included ‘Welcome’, ‘Best Told Story’, ‘Quality Food & Drink’, Hidden Gem’ and ‘Gold’.
Cumberland attractions shone brightly with local winners including The Beacon Museum. These were: The Roman Army Museum in Green Head, Brampton (Welcome award) The Lakes Distillery in Bassenthwaite (Gold) and Whinlatter Forest near Keswick (Gold).
VisitEngland Director Andrew Stokes said:
“Our tourism businesses are the bedrock of our industry and it is wonderful to highlight and celebrate the fantastic service and experiences they give visitors, time-after-time. From museums, gardens and nature reserves to farm attractions, estates and theme parks, these attractions go out of their way to make visits memorable.”