Tatton Park set to receive prestigious Sandford award for heritage education

Having previously been recognised with the prestigious Sandford Award, which celebrates excellence in heritage education, Tatton Park is set to receive the accolade once again, reaffirming its position as one of the North West's leading providers of formal and informal learning opportunities.

Welcoming thousands of learners each year, Tatton Park delivers high-quality educational experiences within a unique heritage setting. Holding Accredited Museum status and set within 2,000 acres of historic parkland, the estate encompasses buildings, collections and landscapes spanning five centuries. Home to a grand mansion, 50 acres of award-winning gardens and a working farm, Tatton Park is owned by the National Trust and managed, maintained and financed by Cheshire East Council.

Brining history to life through immersive learning

Each year, more than 20,000 pupils visit Tatton Park through approximately 450 school bookings, supported by a dedicated Learning Team of 20 staff. In addition, around 1,000 visitors take part annually in the estate's informal learning programmes.

Vicky Rowbotham, acting Education Manager, said: ""We are absolutely delighted that Tatton Park's learning provision has been recognised with a Sandford Award. This prestigious accolade is a testament to our commitment to provide inspiring, enriching, and memorable learning experiences and to the passion, creativity and expertise of our Learning Team, whose work helps bring Tatton Park's heritage, landscapes and collections to life. We are extremely proud of this achievement and delighted that our dedication to excellence in learning has been recognised in this way."

From living history workshops led by costumed interpreters to hands-on activities across the Mansion, Gardens, Farm and parkland, Tatton Park offers immersive educational experiences that encourage learners to engage with history, heritage and the natural environment. Activities take place throughout the site, providing opportunities for exploration, discovery and outdoor learning.

Inspiring the next generation

A learning visit to Tatton Park is designed to be inspiring, enriching and memorable. From the point of booking through to the completion of each workshop, the Learning Team places learners at the centre of the experience, creating opportunities for participation, curiosity and discovery.

Drawing on the estate's rich heritage, programmes bring the stories of Tatton Park's people, places and collections vividly to life. Whether meeting a Saxon warrior, encountering a Victorian servant or exploring the changing landscapes of the estate, learners are encouraged to make meaningful connections with the past through authentic and engaging experiences.

Carefully developed to support curriculum objectives while stimulating imagination and critical thinking, Tatton Park's workshops combine expertise, authenticity and hands-on participation. The result is high-quality, site-specific learning that is both educational and enjoyable, helping to foster lasting connections with heritage, culture and the natural world.

A well-deserved accolade

The Sandford Award is a testament to the dedication, creativity and expertise of Tatton Park's Learning Team and recognises the exceptional educational experiences they deliver to thousands of learners every year.

For more information about our Education Workshops and to enquire about a visit, e-mail us at tattoneducation@cheshireeast.gov.uk