RSPB Saltholme nature reserve scoops VisitEngland Gold Award
RSPB Saltholme nature reserve has just received a much-coveted national VisitEngland Gold Accolade.
It is the fourth time in under a decade it has achieved the honour.
The thriving Teesside wetland reserve has been specifically recognised for its excellent visitor experience and warm North-East welcome.
The reserve’s wildlife-rich wetlands make it a favourite for families and birdwatchers alike. The nature reserve has interactive zones for families where children can explore the discovery zone and wild play areas.
Saltholme’s wetlands attract diverse species, offering prime birdwatching opportunities such as, Bittern, Spoonbill, Common Tern, Avocet, Lapwing, Long-eared Owl, Peregrine Falcon, Water Rail, Sand Martin and Yellow Wagtail.
Good views of Water Voles and Otters can also sometimes be enjoyed.
VisitEngland Chair, Lady Victoria Borwick said the accolades reflect the quality, care and commitment recognised by the assessor, including assessor observations, customer feedback received by VisitEngland as well as online reviews.
Winners of the Awards were presented with their certificates at a celebratory lunch at the British Motor Museum in Warwickshire.
On accepting the award, Chris Francis, senior reserve manager at RSPB Saltholme, said: “Winning this Gold Accolade for the fourth time is a fantastic achievement for our team.
“We were the first RSPB nature reserve to get the Gold Award back in 2017 and it’s a huge credit to all the staff and volunteers here that we have kept such a high standard.
“Our aim is to give our visitors the very best experience.
“That includes everything from the warmest of welcomes, to offering delicious food in the cafe, and of course providing an incredible day out in nature.
“We couldn’t be prouder of this win.”
RSPB Saltholme has enjoyed a winning streak in the VisitEngland Awards, scooping the Gold Award for the fourth time (2017, 2021, 2022, 2026) as well as the Welcome Accolade in 2023.
