South Yorkshire’s Shining Star: Paul Nortcliffe Nominated for National Farm Attractions Award

Ever wondered what makes a day out at a farm park or a nature attraction truly special? It’s often the people who work there – those with a genuine passion for wildlife and a love for sharing it. And now, some of the very best are getting national recognition.

The National Farm Attractions Network (NFAN) has announced the finalists for its 2026 Awards, celebrating the outstanding people and places that make family days out unforgettable. Among them is a South Yorkshire local who’s become something of a legend for his dedication to nature and education – Paul Nortcliffe, from the Tropical Butterfly House near Sheffield.

What are the NFAN Awards?

Think of the NFAN Awards as the Oscars for the farm and countryside attraction world. With nearly 300 members across the UK, the network brings together farms, parks and rural attractions that go above and beyond to give visitors brilliant experiences.

Each year, the sector gathers for a major celebration to honour excellence across categories such as sustainability, events, and visitor experience. The 2026 winners will be revealed at a gala dinner on Wednesday 28 January 2026, at the ICC in Newport, Wales.

NFAN Chair Tom Pearcy summed up the excitement:

“Each year, the standard across our industry gets higher. Being shortlisted is a true testament to the hard work and creativity of our members. Every attraction on this list goes above and beyond to deliver memorable experiences for visitors.”

A local hero from South Yorkshire

Among the finalists, one name stands out for Yorkshire: Paul Nortcliffe, nominated for the Shining Star Award. Paul’s journey at the Tropical Butterfly House began on 2 February 2002 – more than two decades ago. Since then, he’s become known not just as a member of staff, but as a passionate advocate for nature.

Paul’s enthusiasm has inspired thousands of schoolchildren through his wildlife talks and educational sessions. Whether he’s explaining the life cycle of butterflies or the secret habits of bats, he has a unique knack for making learning fun and engaging.

And when he’s not at work? He’s still out in nature – taking part in conservation projects like the Big Butterfly Count, bat surveys, and BioBlitz events to identify and record local species. Even during lockdowns, Paul couldn’t help himself: he turned his nature walks into spontaneous talks for curious passers-by.

Making every visit magical

Visitors to the Tropical Butterfly House regularly comment on Paul’s patience, kindness, and infectious enthusiasm. He’s always ready to answer questions, especially from children, helping them see the natural world in a new light.

Over the years, Paul has even stepped into the role of Santa Claus, bringing festive magic to hundreds of young visitors. He’s often the first friendly face to greet school groups arriving by coach, setting the tone for a day full of discovery and excitement.

Owner Bob Bellis recently watched Paul lead a mini-beasts session for local pupils and described it simply as “outstanding.” From supporting families in the play park to leading animal encounters, Paul embodies the spirit of the Tropical Butterfly House – warm, knowledgeable and endlessly dedicated.

Celebrating the best of Britain’s attractions

Paul is one of many shining examples recognised in the NFAN shortlist, which includes beloved attractions from every corner of the UK. Categories range from sustainability to large farm attraction of the year, showing just how varied and vibrant the sector is.

Here are some of the key finalists:

• Shining Star Award: Emma Bradley (Bluebell Dairy, Derbyshire), Alfie Crooks (Bocketts Farm Park, Surrey), Lauren Owen (Monk Park Farm, North Yorkshire) and Paul Nortcliffe (Tropical Butterfly House, South Yorkshire).
• Jim Keetch Large Farm Attraction of the Year: Bocketts Farm Park (Surrey), Manor Farm Park & Woodlands (Leicestershire), National Forest Adventure Farm (Staffordshire), and Stockeld Park (North Yorkshire).
• Best Event of the Year: Bluebell Dairy (Derbyshire) for “School of Witchcraft and Wizardry” and Wellington Country Park (Berkshire) for “Hallo’Welly’Ween”.
• Sustainability Award: Adventure Valley (Cornwall), Bluebell Dairy (Derbyshire), Bocketts Farm Park (Surrey) and Standalone Farm (Hertfordshire).

With finalists spanning from North Yorkshire to Cornwall, the shortlist highlights just how much creativity and care goes into making Britain’s farm parks and nature attractions so special.

Congratulations to all those shortlisted – and a special round of applause for South Yorkshire’s own Paul Nortcliffe, whose dedication continues to inspire visitors, colleagues, and young nature-lovers alike.