The results are in and Kent has two finalists in the VisitEngland Tourism Superstar 2023 competition and they need your help! These Tourism Superstar nominees represent some of our most passionate Kent representatives working in tourism and we couldn’t be prouder. Every day they go above and beyond to provide excellent service and a warm welcome to our visitors, so we’re showing them support and sharing some of the top reasons why you should show them yours and give them a vote to be crowned Tourism Superstar 2023.
Tobie Airey – Huckleberry Woods
Huckleberry Woods is one of our go tos when it comes to taking a break from the stresses of the modern world, and having the chance to unwind and do something totally different! Offering visitors the chance to mingle with micro and miniature animals in a pretty Kent orchard, it’s the perfect spot to escape the hustle and bustle with a two hour visit that includes visiting the gorgeous miniature donkeys, teddy bear sheep and alpacas that call this beautiful corner of Kent home.
One of the people behind this rural escape is Tobie Airey, who aims to provide a personal and memorable experience for animal lovers. During the pandemic closures, Tobie helped care for the farm’s miniature donkeys, even making the animals coats and signs with their names on. Today her enthusiasm continues as she personally greets each guest by name, encouraging them to get up close and even walk them! Offering plenty of facts and an incredibly in-depth knowledge of each of the donkey’s personalities, Tobie’s enthusiasm is truly inspiring, so it’s no wonder Huckleberry Woods has earned the coveted Trip Advisor certificate of excellence. Animal lovers, this has got to be one for you, so take a peek at Tobie’s video and be sure to give her a vote!
Geoff Colvin – Kent & East Sussex Railway
One of Kent’s biggest icons, the Kent & East Sussex Railway is an insight into Kent’s heritage and one of England’s finest light railways. While today’s railway is smaller than the original which ran from Headcorn to Robertsbridge from 1900 to 1954, a ride on the 10.5 mile track will soon take you back, steaming through the Kent and East Sussex countryside from Tenterden to Bodium. From sparking afternoon teas, to Mother’s Day specials and family friendly events, the timetable is packed with events to keep the whole family entertained.
As this segment of Kent’s heritage is a registered charity, it’s no surprise that it relies upon its volunteers, not to mention their enthusiasm and passion for history that keeps the railway running. One of those many heroes is Geoff Colvin who stepped up as a K&ESR volunteer at the start of the pandemic, a time when volunteers were needed to help secure the survival of the line. Geoff's passion and dedication were an inspiration as he went from the booking office, to lending a hand across the team, filled with ideas and passion, making him shining example of a team player. But it's not only the team who love Geoff's enthusiasm, visitors young and old are assisted by Geoff on the platform, helping to make their experience aboard one of Kent's most iconic historic sites a truly memorable one.
So there you have it, our two Tourism Superstars. Take look at their videos and place your votes!
