BLACKSMITHING business Oldfield Forge in Garway has been recognised on the national stage after winning a prestigious VisitEngland Award for Excellence.

The family-run attraction claimed Gold in the Experience of the Year category at the VisitEngland Awards for Excellence 2026, which celebrate the best of England's tourism industry.

The winners were announced at a ceremony held at Aerospace Bristol on Wednesday, June 3, with businesses from across the country competing for honours.

Oldfield Forge offers hands-on blacksmithing experiences where visitors can learn traditional metalworking skills and create their own forged items. The business caters for a wide range of guests, including families, couples, groups and individuals looking to try something different.

Visitors can take part in activities ranging from introductory forging sessions and garden ornament workshops to knife-making and sword-making experiences. The forge also hosts corporate team-building events, stag and hen parties and group days out.

Founded as a family-run blacksmithing company, Oldfield Forge combines traditional craftsmanship with modern techniques to create bespoke ironwork while helping to preserve the heritage of the ancient trade.

In recent years the business has expanded its tourism offer, allowing visitors to step into the workshop and experience life as a blacksmith for themselves. Half-day, full-day and multi-day experiences are available, with activities tailored to suit different ages and abilities.

The site also features a café and showroom which are open to the public throughout the week.

VisitEngland Director Andrew Stokes said the awards celebrated England's outstanding tourism industry and highlighted businesses delivering exceptional quality, customer service and innovation.

Oldfield Forge was singled out as the country's leading visitor experience, with judges recognising the unique opportunity it gives people to learn traditional blacksmithing skills in a hands-on environment.

The award adds to the forge's growing reputation as one of Herefordshire's leading visitor attractions and tourism businesses.