Cambridge American Cemetery earned a VisitEngland distinction, a special designation awarded by England’s official tourism agency, in the fall of 2016. Receiving this mark serves as an endorsement from VisitEngland  that the cemetery meets the highest standards for a cultural tourism site. In February 2017 the cemetery received a VisitEngland Best Told Story Accolade for 2016.

These distinctions reflect the commitment of the Cambridge team to provide a venue that both informs and inspires. “We serve to ensure that ‘Time will not dim the glory of their deeds’ and to advance the special relationship between the people of the United Kingdom and United States,” said Cambridge American Cemetery Superintendent Rich Cobb.  

For the VisitEngland distinction, the cemetery was evaluated against a standard set of criteria, such as visitor information and signage; appearance of the grounds; quality of exhibits; cleanliness; knowledge and friendliness of staff; and online presence and brochures. An assessor from VisitEngland came to the cemetery as an anonymous visitor, and experienced the site as a normal visitor would. They interacted with the staff, and toured the visitor center and cemetery. Overall, the site received a 91 out of 100, receiving excellent ratings in most categories. For top-scoring sites, such as Cambridge American Cemetery, it’s possible to receive one of five special awards, such as the Best Told Story Accolade.

Overall, the written assessment praised  the cemetery for giving the visitor a moving experience. “The cemetery and memorial provides a memorable, reflective and thought provoking experience to the huge variety of visitors it receives from all over the world. The addition of the relatively new Visitor Centre also ensures that they are able to learn about the personal stories and lives of many of the American citizens that sacrificed during World War II.”

VisitEngland, which is a public entity funded by the Department for Culture, Media & Sport (DCMS), aims to build England’s tourism profile by evaluating hotels, restaurants, and cultural tourism sites, such as the cemetery.

About ABMC:
Established by Congress in 1923, the American Battle Monuments Commission commemorates the service, achievements, and sacrifice of U.S. armed forces. ABMC administers 26 overseas military cemeteries, and 27 memorials, monuments, and markers.