Shepherd Neame's centre in Faversham named Best Visitor Attraction in England. From left: Broadcaster Sandi Toksvig, Rachael Boswell, Visitor Centre bookings assistant, Graham Hukins, Visitor Centre manager, Tom Falcon, Shepherd Neame production and distribution director and Chris Webster, Visit England Board Member

It's cheers to Shepherd Neame after the Faversham brewery was named Small Visitor Attraction of the Year.

The accolade for its visitor centre came in the Enjoy England Awards for Excellence 2011 organised by VisitEngland and held at the University of Birmingham.

The awards recognise outstanding commitment to customer service and high quality standards.

Britain's oldest brewery saw off seven rivals to land the trophy for its outstanding customer service, good presentation of information, accessibility and innovative marketing that has brought in new and repeat visitors.

It hosts guided tours and tastings, themed Beer and Food Evenings, Murder Mysteries, Ale Samplers' Suppers, Father's Day Lunches and Halloween Ghost Tours.

Visitor numbers rose by 25 per cent last year and the centre has increased the number of tours.

Centre manager Graham Hukins said: "Winning this award is a great testament to the hard work of the team who provide a first-class experience for our visitors."

John Williams, chairman of Tourism South East, said: "Competition from across England is fierce and standards are extremely high so to achieve such high accolades is a resounding endorsement."