The Historic Dockyard Chatham in Kent was awarded the highest accolade in the  'Large Tourist Attraction of the South East' category at the Tourism South East's Regional Awards for Excellence - The Beautiful South Awards.

The annual Beautiful South Awards recognise businesses and destinations across the tourism industry for their exceptional levels of customer service and dedication to raising standards.

Admiral Sir Ian Garnett KCB, Chairman of Chatham Historic Dockyard said 'I was thrillled to witness The Historic Dockyard Chatham win Gold Award. It is the whole team - whose outstanding service to our visitors has made this possible. We fought off stiff competition and can be very proud of what has been acheieved. and grateful for the wholehearted commitment of permanent and volunteer staff alike. We now look forward to a place in the short list for the national awards.

The judges said; 'The Historic Dockyard Chatham has been extremely successful and recently completed restoration works have helped visitors swell. The blend of history, education and enjoyment, with good interpretation mean they are worthy winners.