TWO Ryedale attractions have been recognised in UK Heritage Awards 2018.

Castle Howard was the winner of the Great Places to Eat award, while Lastingham Grange was commended in the Outstanding Customer Experience category.

Previously known as Hudson’s Heritage Awards, the UK Heritage Awards 2018 recognise the finest historic houses, gardens, museums and heritage sites in the UK.

The judging panel was formed of country house consultant Simon Foster, author and TV presenter Lucinda Lambton, architectural writer and author Jeremy Musson, tourism consultant Ken Robinson, writer

and art historian Helen Rosslyn and director of Visit Heritage Paul Bridle.

Nicholas Howard said: “We are delighted to be recognised for the excellent food offer here at Castle Howard.

“Over the last couple of years we have invested a lot in our catering and we are dedicated to providing the finest quality food to our

visitors as part of their experience here.

“It’s fantastic that the hard work of our team has been celebrated in the awards this week.”

Lastingham Grange is a country hotel in Lastingham, which has been run by the Wood family for more than 70 years.

Bertie Wood, on behalf of the Wood family, said: “We are absolutely delighted with this award and would like to thank all our wonderful team and fantastic guests.”

This year’s awards were handed out across 13 categories - nine UK Heritage Awards and four hotel awards recognised by Signpost.