A popular museum and café are thrilled to have been named as finalists in two categories at a prestigious awards ceremony.

Whitchurch Silk Mill has been shortlisted for The Beautiful South Tourism Awards 2024, which celebrate excellence in the tourism sector.

The mill is in the running for the Small Visitor Attraction category alongside four other finalists, including the Army Flying Museum, in Middle Wallop.

Co-chairman Andy Alferovs said: "One can only describe Whitchurch Silk Mill as a gem of a museum in a beautiful location.

"But it's not only a museum, it's alive with innovation, design and production, nurturing experts who are helping preserve endangered skills of silk and silk ribbon weaving."

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The working museum tells the story of silk weaving in Hampshire and allows visitors to witness the silk textile-making process.

The mill’s Riverside Café is also a finalist in the Café and Tearoom of the Year category.

Situated on the banks of the River Test, the Riverside Café offers a menu of locally made sweet and savoury treats, as well as light lunches.

It is housed in one of the mill’s old weaving sheds and has become a popular community hub in Whitchurch.

Andy said: "Once again, the café is up for an award. Not just for its beautiful location alongside the River Test and the mill, but more importantly for its quality food and the hard-working café team.

"Winning the award puts the icing on the cake."

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Seventy-five finalists from the best tourism and hospitality businesses in South East England will find out whether they have won gold, silver or bronze awards on Tuesday, December 10.

Winning businesses in some categories will also have the opportunity to compete nationally and represent the southeast at the 2025 Visit England Awards for Excellence.

Fran Downton, chief executive of Tourism South East, said: "We are thrilled to announce the finalists for this year's Beautiful South Awards, which highlight the outstanding achievements in tourism excellence across South East England.

"These finalists reflect the spirit of innovation and dedication of businesses to make our destination a fantastic place for visitors and residents."