Strawberry Field, the interactive visitor exhibition and place of John Lennon’s childhood, has won the Small Visitor Attraction of the Year at the Liverpool City Region Tourism Awards.

Strawberry Field is a visitor attraction in Liverpool, located at the iconic site immortalised by John Lennon in The Beatles’ hit, ‘Strawberry Fields Forever’. Telling the story of The Salvation Army’s childrens home which opened on the site in 1936 and the connection to John Lennon’s childhood, as well as the writing and recording of the iconic song, the attraction is home to an interactive visitor exhibition.

The attraction includes the actual ‘Imagine piano’, the original iconic red gates, specially designed bandstand, and the peaceful gardens where John played as a child.

“This attraction was a rare find; a destination that houses not just a great tourist attraction but also engages their community and offers a place of sanctuary in its indoor and outdoor spaces. A special place and a truly deserving winner,” said the award judges.

There was stiff competition this year, and Strawberry Field was up against the fantastic British Music Experience, Liverpool Beatles Museum, and The Palm House Sefton Park.

Strawberry Field team member Amber Kinrade was also Highly Commended in the Tourism Young Person of the Year category. Amber is a graduate from Strawberry Field’s Steps to Work programme, which supports young people with barriers to employment to realise their goals of paid work. Now, Amber works in the Imagine More Café.

Held in the spectacular setting of Liverpool Cathedral, the awards recognised the very best in tourism from across the Liverpool city region in 2023, a year when Liverpool pulled out all the stops as it hosted Eurovision on behalf of Ukraine.

Sue Harvey, commercial manager at Strawberry Field, said: “Since Strawberry Field opened as a visitor attraction in 2019, the team have worked hard to make sure that every visitor receives the best welcome. Strawberry Field has a unique offer recognising John Lennon’s legacy of peace and represents a unique model of responsible tourism, with proceeds from the attraction funding our work supporting young people into employment. We are delighted that Strawberry Field’s success has been recognised in a city with so many brilliant attractions offering a great experience to visitors.”

Groups ideally spend 1 – 1.5 hours exploring the interactive exhibition and historic garden. Visitors discover the history of The Salvation Army and its children’s home at Strawberry Field, John Lennon’s childhood and the writing and recording of the famous song, as told by John’s close friends and family.

Group organiser/leader/carers are admitted to the exhibition free of charge, and coach drivers/group leaders receive a free hot drink.

Visit www.strawberryfieldliverpool.com and for more information, contact Ginette Goulston-Lincoln, at ginette@goulston-lincoln.com