ARUNDELLS, the historic Salisbury home of the former Prime Minister Sir Edward Heath, secured a top award at this year’s Salisbury Business Excellence Awards.

The Grade II listed house in the Cathedral Close was awarded the Visitor Experience Award, with judges highlighting its unique charm and impressive offerings.

This award recognises businesses in Salisbury and the surrounding areas that demonstrate exceptional enthusiasm and commitment to delivering the very best experience for visitors.

Arundells was up against some of Salisbury’s major attractions for the award, including Salisbury Cathedral, Salisbury Museum and Wiltshire Creative.

The judges said: “Ivan and the Arundells team show authentic, thoughtful and, really, just wonderful customer service.

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“They have taken this beautiful house and established it as a precious gem competing with the top attractions in Salisbury.

“It has the warmth of a living home but with literature, political interest and musical performance thrown in.

“Arundells is both charming but impressive at the same time with an array of incredible events and artwork. A very worthy recipient of The Visitor Experience Award.”

The award was received on behalf of Arundells by Luke Futcher, the events and marketing manager, Grace Clark, Denise Lord, and Hazel Marks, who attended the prestigious awards ceremony dinner.

Ivan Smith, manager of Arundells, said: “We are absolutely thrilled and deeply honoured to receive this prestigious award.

“It is a testament to the hard work, dedication, and passion of our entire team – staff and volunteers alike – who strive every day to create a welcoming, enriching, and memorable experience for everyone who visits Arundells.

“To be recognised amongst such esteemed organisations in Salisbury is a fantastic achievement, and we are incredibly grateful to the judges and Salisbury Reds for this recognition.”

This award underscores Arundells’ commitment to providing a unique and engaging visitor experience, blending the personal history of Sir Edward Heath with its exceptional collections, beautiful setting, and vibrant program of events.