A much-loved Northumberland attraction has welcomed its seven millionth visitors through the door.
Alnwick Garden, which took three gold awards at this year's North East Tourism Awards, has welcomed visitors from all around the world since it opened in 2001. And one of the unsuspecting Whitehead family from Aberdeen was the lucky number 7 (million) when they visited on Thursday August 4.
The family were presented with a certificate, a complimentary afternoon tea and some other goodies, before exploring the 12 acre garden created by the Duchess of Northumberland.
Ian McAllister, Head of Marketing at Alnwick Garden, said: "We were waiting with bated breath all day on Thursday as we knew that we were getting close to the lucky number 7, so when The Whiteheads scanned their entry ticket and we realised it was them, we were delighted to tell them the big news!
"We presented them with a certificate, complimentary afternoon tea, branded artwork and a bottle of our newly distilled – and limited edition - Gents Gin, created by our amazing Gentlemen Gardeners. Bottle number 7 of course!"
In recent years, publications around the world have taken a particular interest in Alnwick's Poison Garden, which has been dubbed the "world's most dangerous garden" and houses more than 100 deadly, intoxicating and narcotic plants. The Alnwick Garden is also home to the largest collection of cherry blossom trees in the world, with the Tai Haku orchard rivalling the parks of Tokyo and Kyoto in the springtime.
The team at the Garden are hoping that the rest of the year will be a success, with work set to continue on the opening of the world's largest play structure, Lildorei; the hosting of Mr Gay England and Mr Gay Europe by the Grand Cascade, and a range of events throughout the year.
Are you planning to visit Alnwick Garden this summer? Let us know!
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