Visitor Attraction Quality Scheme

What is VAQAS?

All areas that impact on the quality of the visitor experience are included in the assessment, ranging from the enquiry through to the departure. The assessment will recognise areas that may be unique as well as common areas. Where an attraction does not have a particular facility, such as a car park or catering, those aspects are not included.

The service does not attempt to grade attractions but assesses each on its own merits using objective quality benchmarks, provided by the industry.

The assessment is an annual visit at any time when the attraction is open to the public. The visit, by an experienced quality assurance assessor, is unannounced, although one key contact at the attraction will be advised beforehand.

The assessment is followed by a one to one debrief. The objective feedback is for consideration and is based on examples of best practice drawn from the attraction industry.

Each visit is followed by an assessment report and, if successful, the accreditation of 'Quality Assured Visitor Attraction'.

Visit the VAQAS website for full details about the scheme.