Haslemere Educational Museum in Haslemere, Surrey, has been named winner of the 2012 Telegraph Family Friendly Museum Award.

The independent attraction held off competition from five other shortlisted institutions to pick up this year's accolade, which celebrates the most welcoming attractions to visitors of all ages.

One of the largest museum award schemes in the UK, the annual Telegraph Family Friendly Museum Award is judged by families against the Kids in Museums Manifesto.

Sandra Tellyn, one of the family judges to visit Haslemere Educational Museum, said: "The volunteers couldn't have been more welcoming. Everyone we spoke to gave more than they had to. They were just amazing. It's a little haven."

Kids in Museum patron Mariella Frostrup said: "[Families] chose Haslemere not because of an outstanding collection - even though there's a lovely stuffed bear, a giant spider crab and even an Egyptian Mummy - but because of the welcome they received."

Details: www.haslemeremuseum.co.uk (Haslemere Educational Museum)

Details: www.kidsinmuseums.org.uk (Telegraph Family Friendly Museum Award)