Two of Dundee’s top visitor attractions have won one of the UK’s most prestigious awards recognising educational work.
Scotland’s jute museum, Verdant Works, and Discovery Point, have both won the Sandford Award — an accolade only handed out every five years.
Essentially a stamp of approval for education at a heritage site, the award is independently judged and recognises the hands-on learning, workshops and facilities at the two attractions.
The judges lauded Discovery Point’s “evocative tours” and commended its “rich environment for learning”, while “atmospheric” Verdant Works was hailed as “world class”.
Ali Gellatly, education officer with Dundee Heritage Trust, which runs the two sights, said: “This is the fourth time Verdant Works and Discovery Point have received the Sandford Award, which are given every five years.
“I’m very proud to have been a part of developing the educational offering at both sites.
“These awards are endorsements of the hard work which goes into making sure our visitors learn as much as they can about Dundee and its links to the industries of shipping and jute.”
Meanwhile, Dundee’s attractions have also received top marks for accessibility as it gears up for the arrival of tourists from across the world.
Charity website Euan’s Guide recently published an Accessible Highlights guide featuring a range of accessible locations such as City Square and the Botanic Gardens to popular hotels such as The Malmaison and The Apex.
Euansguide.com founder, Euan MacDonald said he had been “hugely impressed” by the focus on accessibility in Dundee.
He said: “Given the V&A opening this summer and the national and international attention Dundee will be receiving, we hope this guide to Dundee will encourage disabled people and their friends and families to consider visiting the city, whereas before they may have ruled in out completely.”
The city is expected to be particularly busy over the next few weeks with the Open Championships at Carnoustie Golf Links starting on Thursday July 19.
