Brampton Museum wins visitor attraction of the year award
A council-run heritage and cultural service home to more than 2,000 years of local history is officially the best place to visit in Newcastle-under-Lyme.
Brampton Museum is the proud winner of the “Visitor Attraction of the Year Award” at the LoveNUL Business Awards 2025.
The annual event – organised by Newcastle-under-Lyme Business Improvement District (BID) – celebrates favourite local businesses, service providers and people whose talent and dedication contribute to the vibrancy of Newcastle-under-Lyme. Winners across 11 categories were announced at the NSCG Performing Arts Centre following a public nomination and voting process which saw more than 600 nominations and 6,000 votes.
Brampton Museum, set within the award-winning Brampton Park, has something for everyone including changing exhibitions and galleries, a lively events programme – thanks to the National Lottery Heritage Fund – and a popular schools programme. There is also a shop and café. General admission is free. Outside, visitors can enjoy a sandpit, bird aviary, sensory garden, children’s playground and a miniature railway. More information is available online.
The other category contenders were Break Free Escape Rooms, Lymelight Boulevard, New Vic Theatre and the Philip Astley Centre.
Cllr. Craig Skelding, Cabinet member for Leisure, Culture and Heritage, said:
I’m thrilled that Brampton Museum has won this fantastic award, against some tough competition who also make a great impact on the town. The museum holds a special place in residents’ hearts; knowing that it has received the highest number of public votes in this category is further validation.
It’s deserved recognition for our experienced staff, supported by excellent volunteers, who go above and beyond every single day to deliver exceptional experiences for visitors of all ages.”
Charl Pearce, Manager of Newcastle-under-Lyme BID, added:
We’re incredibly lucky to have Brampton Museum right on the edge of the town centre. It celebrates Newcastle-under-Lyme’s story so well, and the changing exhibitions bring together brilliant local talent alongside nationally renowned artists. The grounds are beautifully looked after by the council and it’s great to see them being enjoyed by people of all ages.”
The Market/Trader of the Year Award, sponsored by the borough council, was presented to Independent Street who organise regular food and drink festivals in the Ironmarket.
Cllr. Stephen Sweeney, Cabinet member for Finance, Town Centres and Growth, said:
The council is proud to sponsor the market award. Not only is “The Stones” at the heart of Newcastle’s proud identity as a historic market town, it’s playing an important role in the town centre’s exciting future through the generation of economic activity, footfall, social interaction and civic pride.
Congratulations to all the shortlisted businesses whose collective efforts continue to attract visitors of all ages and tastes – whether it’s through food festivals, artisan markets or record fairs – for the wider benefit of local businesses. Also, well done to Lisa at Independent Street for winning the category. The awards ceremony was a fantastic event; it was quite touching to be among so many people who are passionate about Newcastle-under-Lyme.”