The Historic Dockyard Chatham has won the Accessible and Inclusive Tourism Gold Award at the 2024/25 Beautiful South Awards. The annual awards by Tourism South East recognise businesses that go above and beyond to deliver outstanding experiences.
The Historic Dockyard Chatham’s commitment to accessibility is demonstrated through initiatives such as regular Audio Described and British Sign Language Tours, a monthly Dementia Café, and the introduction of Sensory Support Backpacks. These efforts are further supported by ongoing staff training, ensuring that everyone visiting the Dockyard or engaging with its stories feels genuinely welcome and supported.
By proactively addressing real and perceived barriers, the Dockyard has made its 400-year history more accessible, engaging and inclusive for all. This commitment has had a profound impact, frequently reflected in positive feedback from visitors.
Lynnette Crisp, Director of Public Engagement, Chatham Historic Dockyard Trust said, “Winning the Accessible and Inclusive Tourism Gold Award is an incredible honour and a testament to the unwavering commitment of our entire team to make The Historic Dockyard Chatham welcoming and inclusive for everyone. In our 40th anniversary year, this recognition feels particularly special as it highlights the great strides we’ve made in creating meaningful, inclusive experiences for a diverse range of visitors – both here at the Historic Dockyard and within our local community. We are proud to be leading the way in accessibility and inclusion within the tourism sector, and this award inspires us to continue breaking down barriers so that visiting us or connecting with our stories becomes a reality for all.”
Fran Downton, Chief Executive of Tourism South East said, “Congratulations to all our winners. It was a real honour to play host to such truly exceptional businesses. The strength of our winners is testament to the incredible standards and unwavering quality of the South’s tourism and hospitality products. I am extremely grateful to the sponsors and the partnership with The Grand in Brighton that made this event extra special. Tourism South East look forward to celebrating with our winners and working alongside them as they lead the way throughout this coming year.”
Click here to find out more about The Historic Dockyard Chatham.
