CLITHEROE Castle Museum has come out tops in a tough assessment by UK tourism supremos.

National tourism agency Visit England gave the museum an 82 per cent rating following a rigorous once-over – a one per cent increase on last year.

The assessment praised the museum’s provision for youngsters, the maintenance of displays, general cleanliness and warm welcome by staff.

Museum cleanliness, including the café, shop and toilets, and the competence of staff, including their appearance, efficiency, knowledge and customer care, received an impressive 92 per cent and 83 per cent rating respectively.

The Atrium Café, run by chef-patron James Harper, received an 80 per cent score, with inspectors particularly praising the café’s menu and relaxed vibe.

And no aspect of the 37-point inspection received less than a ‘good score’, with most being rated ‘very good’ or ‘excellent’.

Stuart Carefoot, chairman of Ribble Valley Borough Council’s community services committee, said: “The Clitheroe Castle Museum has gone from strength-to strength since a major refurbishment 10 years ago and is now one of the borough’s top attractions.

“The castle and its grounds are a cultural asset to the borough, attracting visitors from far and wide, and we are delighted with this latest accolade.”

The Clitheroe Castle Museum received a Royal opening by HRH the Duke of Gloucester in 2009 following a £3.2million refurbishment funded by Ribble Valley Council, the Heritage Lottery Fund and several public and private sector partners.

It is now listed on Trip Advisor as one of Ribble Valley’s top attractions, with a 4.5 rating and Certificate of Excellence.

Visit England assessor Diane Herrod added: “Clitheroe Castle Museum is a good visitor attraction, consistently maintaining high standards of presentation and customer care.

“The award of a prestigious Visit England Welcome award remains a realistic aspiration.”

Clitheroe Castle is owned by Ribble Valley Borough Council and the museum is managed by Lancashire County Council.