THE Palladian mansion and parkland at Croome Court, which these days is collectively known as just Croome, has won a major tourism award.

The National Trust attraction near Pershore has been awarded Midlands historical family attraction of the year by tourism magazine Going Places.

Michael Forster-Smith, Croome’s general manager, said: "We are really pleased to accept this award. We had a record breaking year at Croome in 2014 with visitor numbers reaching 170,000 and 2015 promises to be even better. Our family offer is something we are passionate about as one of our aims is to help families learn about Croome’s history in fresh, fun and innovative ways.”

This is Croome’s second award during the 12 years the scheme has been running and is based on positive feedback and votes from visitors.

“For me, it is a pleasure to announce this special award to Croome, as voted for by readers of Going Places” said Ken Darville-Smith, director of Going Places. “Visitors particularly appreciate the vast restoration work that has been undertaken and how the informative volunteers and staff made their visits so special.”

The family friendly attraction has a strong focus on providing families with fun outdoor trails, interactive games, outdoor walks, a war-time themed playground and a wild play area, along with family focussed events around the year.

Croome is open throughout the winter. The park and lakeside are open from 10am until 5.30pm every day and Croome Court is open every day from 11am to 4.30pm (except Tuesday). Going Places, a popular tourism magazine for the Midlands, began publication more than 20 years ago.