Figures released today by ALVA (Association of Leading Visitor Attractions) show that the poor weather in the summer did not stop visitors from flocking to Brodsworth Hall & Gardens, near Doncaster, with the site reporting a nearly 20% increase in visitor numbers in 2009 compared to 2008.

The Association, which represents the top visitor attractions in the country, reported that many attractions benefited from the ‘staycation’, with a median increase in visitor numbers of 10.9%.  Brodsworth Hall nearly doubled that figure, welcoming over 86,000 visitors in 2009, compared to 72,699 in 2008.  This is the fourth largest percentage increase of any English Heritage site.

“This is great news for South Yorkshire tourism.  Even though the predicted barbecue summer turned into a bit of a washout, Brodsworth’s new children’s play area, on-going development of the gardens and fantastic array of flora and fauna contained within the gardens attracted some fantastic visitor numbers last year,” comments regional marketing manager, Nicola Bexon. 

“The events were particularly popular, and we’ve got an equally strong event programme planned for this year.  With more people planning to holiday in the UK in 2010 and choosing to enjoy attractions on their doorstep, we should be well placed to match, if not grow our visitor numbers for 2010.”

The gardens of Brodsworth Hall are open every weekend throughout the year, with the Hall itself re-opening for Easter.  Admission prices are £5.00 for adults, £4.30 for concessions and £2.50 for children, including entry to the gardens, servants’ wing and tea room.

For more information, please call Brodsworth Hall on 01302 722598 or visit www.english-heritage.org.uk/brodsworthhall

ENDS

For further media information, please contact:

Jay Commins

PRO – English Heritage

Tel: 0113 251 5698

Mob: 07810 546567

Email: jay@fim.org.uk