VisitEngland

VisitEngland Awards for Excellence: 2026 Finalists

This year's finalists will gather at the national awards ceremony on 3 June at Aerospace Bristol, where Gold, Silver and Bronze winners will be announced.

Photo by: VisitBritain/DanielaLuquini

Location: Leavesden, England

A close up of the brochure for the VisitEngland Awards for Excellence 2023.

intro

Once again, local competitions from across England put their winners forward for the national awards and to the attention of the national judges.  

And what a selection the judges had to choose from!

Local awards forwarded over 300 applicants for judging in the VisitEngand Awards for Excellence. These were made up of businesses including hotels, self-catering accommodation providers, B&Bs, glamping operators, visitor attractions, restaurants, pubs and museums - all vying for gold, silver and bronze across categories ranging from ‘B&B and Guest House of the Year’ and ‘Experience of the Year’ to ‘Camping, Glamping and Holiday Park of the Year’ and ‘Large and Small Visitor Attractions of the Year’.

Accessible and Inclusive Tourism Award

  • Attwell Farm Park, Worcestershire

    This award-winning, family-run attraction in Worcestershire offers a brilliant day out, whatever the weather. With over 80 animal species, hands-on encounters, indoor play barns, an inclusive sandpit and sensory-rich experiences, there’s plenty to explore. The park hosts year-round seasonal events, all designed with accessibility in mind, including autism-friendly sessions. Accessible play areas and a state-of-the-art Changing Places facility ensure everyone feels welcome. 

  • Hoe Grange Holidays, Peak District, Derbyshire

    Hoe Grange Holidays offers wheelchair accessible self-catering log cabins on a working farm in the peaceful Peak District countryside. Accessibility has been at the very heart of the business since its inception in 2006. David, Fellcity and Caroline Brown are dedicated to providing a luxury holiday experience for everyone, whether they have mobility, visual or hearing impairments, hidden disabilities or are simply unsteady on their feet.

  • Nottingham Playhouse, Nottingham

    Creating theatre that’s bold, thrilling and proudly made in Nottingham, this is one of the country’s leading producing theatres and creates a range of productions throughout the year, from timeless classics to innovative family shows and adventurous new plays. Alongside the productions we make here in Nottingham, they also host a wide range of comedy, music, dance, and children’s shows. There’s something for everyone and they promote inclusivity for all.

B&B and Guest House of the Year

  • Holly Lodge Boutique Bed & Breakfast, Norfolk

    Holly Lodge Boutique B&B offers 6 beautifully decorated rooms, and a Shepherd’s Hut surrounded by beautifully manicured gardens within a countryside setting. Close to picturesque towns and seaside resorts, the B&B offers local produce, high-quality amenities, and is situated close to the Thursford Collection. All this combined with achieving 5-stars two-years running from the AA and a 5-star food hygiene rating makes Holly Lodge one of North Norfolk’s best uncovered secrets.

  • MonkBridge House, York

    MonkBridge House is an elegant Victorian guest house just minutes from York Minster, with eight beautifully refurbished double, twin and triple rooms. Guests enjoy an award-winning breakfast using local produce and homemade bread, butter, jams, granola and sausages. Winners of multiple design, sustainability and tourism awards, we’re fully licensed, with a lounge, heated courtyard garden, free private parking, EV chargers and a secure cycle locker for your stay.

  • One Drake Road and Apartments, Devon

    Nestled in the heart of Tavistock, Devon, One Drake Road is housed in a restored Georgian townhouse dating back to 1752, it offers individually styled rooms, a two-bedroom self-catering apartment and other local self-catering properties, each blending eclectic charm with modern comforts. With its award-winning design, fresh ground coffee, and a warm, personal welcome from the resident hosts, One Drake Road feels more like staying with friends than at a hotel.

Business Events Venue of the Year

  • The Catalyst, Newcastle

    The Catalyst offers 11 flexible meeting and event spaces, plus a dedicated exhibition area. Designed to host everything from cabaret-style training and expos to hybrid meetings and TED-style talks, its adaptability is unmatched. Highlights include a 173-seat theatre, the innovative Team Decision Theatre, and high-spec breakout rooms. Located in Newcastle’s innovation district, The Catalyst blends cutting-edge facilities with a vibrant ecosystem of enterprise and research.

  • Nottingham Venues, Nottingham

    Nottingham Venues stands as a premier collection of independent venues at the heart of the University of Nottingham’s stunning grounds. They offer a diverse suite of conferencing, hotel, and event spaces, enabling us to create bespoke delegate experiences. From work meets and conferences to birthday celebrations and tying the knot, these venues offer a range of meeting and event spaces just outside the busy city centre.

  • Warwick Conferences, Warwick

    Warwick Conferences delivers engaging training, events and conferences across three venues that together offer 300 versatile meeting and event spaces - from theatres and lecture rooms to creative and outdoor settings. From board meetings and team building to gala dinners and conferences, they can host up to 1,200 delegates. With wellbeing and experience at its heart, Warwick Conferences creates memorable events where people thrive.

Camping, Glamping and Holiday Park of the Year

  • Bredon View Glamping Retreats, Worcestershire

    Bredon View Glamping Retreats, at the foot of Bredon Hill, offers luxury, eco-conscious escapes in the Worcestershire countryside. This small, family-run site features architect-designed, earth-sheltered pods with private wood-fired hot tubs, panoramic views and thoughtful touches including homemade brownies and local treats. Sustainability meets comfort through eco products and local materials, with bespoke guest support and experiences focused on wellbeing.

  • Clawford Lakes Resort and Spa, Devon

    Set in Devon’s unspoilt countryside, Clawford Lakes delivers an unforgettable escape where luxury meets nature. The 98-acre resort features 17 scenic lakes, distinctive accommodation including Luxury Cocoons and Floating Lodges, a spa, outdoor pool and flumes. Guests enjoy complimentary watersports, wild swimming and fishing on their doorstep. Immersive outdoor experiences, exceptional comfort, an on-site bistro and dog-friendly stays make Clawford Lakes a standout rural retreat.

  • Kaya at Blackhill Farm Ltd, Herefordshire

    Kaya at Blackhill Farm offers luxury glamping and retreat experiences on the edge of Bannau Brycheiniog National Park. This tranquil, adults-only site features beautifully handcrafted accommodation designed for relaxation and rejuvenation. Guests unwind with breathtaking views, dark skies and outdoor bathing in every space, from soaking under the stars to fireside evenings outdoors. Kaya provides a deeply restorative escape rooted in calm, nature and wellbeing.

Experience of the Year

  • Blacksmithing Experience Days - Oldfield Forge Ltd, Herefordshire

    Oldfield Forge offers immersive blacksmithing experience days, from sword, hammer and ring making to bespoke metalwork courses. Led by a passionate team of skilled blacksmiths, each session focuses on hands-on learning and creativity. Experiences suit everyone, from families with children aged seven and over to corporate groups and celebrations. With a welcoming, flexible approach, Oldfield Forge makes blacksmithing accessible, memorable and inspiring.

  • Make Your Own Distilled Spirit - Shed One Distillery, Cumbria

    Shed One Distillery began life in a 7x7 foot garden shed in Ulverston in 2016 and now welcomes visitors to a quirky converted venue. Guests enjoy Cumbria’s original Make Your Own Distilled Spirit experience, crafting personalised gin or vodka, alongside tours, tastings and botanical Afternoon G&Ts. A multiple award winner, Shed One champions sustainability and produces classically distilled spirits using traditional methods and locally grown or foraged botanicals.

  • The Wizard Walk of York, York

    The Wizard Walk of York leads families through the city’s enchanting snickelways on a magical quest filled with comedy, spells and fascinating history. Beginning in the iconic Shambles, this award-winning experience is designed to delight without fright, offering a whimsical alternative to ghost tours. The magic continues at home with optional Wizard Wand Kits, featuring handcrafted wooden wands and instructions for seven tricks, making the adventure last long after the walk ends.

International Tourism Award

  • Castle Howard, York

    Castle Howard is an internationally renowned attraction in the heart of Yorkshire, welcoming visitors from across the globe. Guests explore architectural splendour, sweeping landscapes and rich cultural heritage, with all visitor income supporting vital conservation. A varied year-round programme of events, exhibitions and experiences attracts around 300,000 visitors annually, offering a timeless British destination that resonates strongly with international audiences.

  • Kents Cavern Prehistoric Caves, Devon

    Kents Cavern has drawn global interest for over 500,000 years, welcoming modern visitors from around the world to explore its extraordinary prehistoric heritage. Entertaining guided tours bring the cave’s history to life, connecting guests with their ancient ancestors. As proud custodians, the team ensures this site is accessible to international audiences, offering language translation sheets and selected foreign-language tours throughout the year.

  • The Beatles Story, Liverpool

    The Beatles Story is Liverpool’s leading visitor attraction, welcoming fans from around the world to explore the story of the city’s most famous sons. Located at the Royal Albert Dock, this immersive experience features interactive exhibits, recreated sets and authentic memorabilia. With multimedia guides in 12 languages, narrated by John Lennon’s sister, Julia, it offers a truly world-class, accessible experience celebrating the band’s global cultural legacy.

Large Hotel of the Year

  • Bovey Castle, Devon

    Bovey Castle Hotel, set within Devon’s Dartmoor National Park, is a luxurious retreat combining rich heritage with spectacular scenery. Built in the early 20th century, the hotel offers 60 elegant rooms and 22 self-catering lodges. Guests enjoy an 18-hole golf course, award-winning spa and fine dining, plus outdoor pursuits from falconry to fly fishing. Family programmes, exceptional service and a magnificent 275-acre estate ensure a truly memorable escape.

  • The Grand Brighton, Brighton

    Opened in 1864, The Grand Brighton is an iconic seafront hotel blending Victorian elegance with contemporary luxury. With 205 newly refurbished rooms, award-winning service and a celebrated afternoon tea, it’s an outstanding base for discovering the city. Proudly carbon neutral and Gold-rated by Green Tourism, The Grand Brighton combines historic grandeur, sustainability and modern comfort to offer a truly distinctive large-hotel experience on the south coast.

  • Watergate Bay Hotel, Cornwall

    Set on a sweeping two-mile surfing beach on Cornwall’s north coast, Watergate Bay Hotel defines contemporary seaside holidays. Owned by one family for two generations, it is loved for warm hospitality, relaxed luxury and a strong connection to the elements. Guests enjoy active days, exceptional food and restorative downtime. Committed to social and environmental good, the hotel is on its journey to B Corp certification, balancing people, planet and profit.

Large Visitor Attraction of the Year

  • Attwell Farm Park, Worcestershire

    Attwell Farm Park is a multi award-winning, family-run attraction in Worcestershire, offering a great day out whatever the weather. Home to over 80 animal species, the park blends hands-on animal encounters with huge indoor play barns, outdoor adventure play and a giant sandpit. A lively programme of seasonal events, from lambing and dinosaurs to Halloween and Christmas, sees the park transform year-round, making Attwell Farm Park a standout family destination.

  • Bletchley Park, Buckinghamshire

    Bletchley Park, once the top-secret home of Britain’s World War Two codebreakers and a birthplace of modern computing, is now a leading heritage attraction. Visitors explore restored wartime huts, the iconic Mansion, historic grounds, exhibitions and interactive displays, plus immersive cinema experiences. New for 2025, The Age of AI offers hands-on insight into artificial intelligence, while free guided tours and multimedia guides enhance a fascinating day out.

  • Jimmy’s Farm & Wildlife Park, Suffolk

    Jimmy’s Farm & Wildlife Park is a lively attraction where animal encounters meet adventure. Families discover over 100 species and breeds, including brown bears, rare native livestock and Europe’s largest polar bear reserve. Highlights include the Butterfly and Reptile Houses, adventure play, den building and giant bouncy pillows. Guests can enjoy on-site eateries or field-to-fork dining in a converted barn, with farm-produced food and retail spaces completing the visit.

New Tourism Business of the Year

  • Flora and Fauna Exmoor, Exmoor

    Flora and Fauna Exmoor has elevated glamping with a sophisticated, fully accessible retreat set within the wild beauty of Exmoor National Park. Two spacious luxury safari tents offer a secluded escape, with accessibility carefully and discreetly integrated throughout. Rated the UK’s first M3 Gold Star safari tents for full-time wheelchair users, the business blends inclusive design with luxury and bespoke features. In 2023, the owners were recognised with VisitEngland’s Rose Award.

  • One Acre Wood, Herefordshire

    One Acre Wood offers an enchanting new rural escape, with handcrafted luxury treehouses set within a peaceful Herefordshire woodland. Designed for couples and families, each treehouse features stylish interiors, spa‑style bathrooms and year‑round comfort. Guests can explore woodland and meadows, enjoy tree swings and hidden slides, gather around private firepits, soak in outdoor copper baths, or head to the shared clubhouse for relaxed fun whatever the weather.

  • The Story of Emily, Cornwall

    The Story of Emily is a new cultural attraction dedicated to preserving and sharing the legacy of social reformer Emily Hobhouse. Through immersive storytelling, sensitive restoration and thought‑provoking exhibitions, history is brought vividly to life. The experience encourages deep emotional connection and reflection while maintaining strong historical integrity. By combining education with meaningful engagement, this high‑quality experience links past and present.

Pub of the Year

  • The Kirkstyle Inn and Sportsman’s Rest, Northumberland

    Nestled on the banks of the South Tyne in the North Pennines, the beautifully refurbished Kirkstyle Inn combines rustic charm with refined modern comfort. Flagstone floors and bespoke interiors create a welcoming rural retreat. Led by head chef Connor Wilson, the kitchen champions a fiercely sustainable farm-to-fork ethos, while the Oak Bar showcases local brews, spirits and an expertly curated wine list of over 350 bins for every occasion.

  • The Tickled Trout, Barlow, Derbyshire

    Found in the Derbyshire village of Barlow, this award-winning independent pub is celebrated for its warm welcome and outstanding food. Following a stunning refurbishment, chef-owner Chris and his team create seasonal dishes using produce from the on-site kitchen garden and trusted local suppliers. Recognised by the AA and Good Food Guide, it is widely regarded as one of Derbyshire’s finest dining pubs, with a reputation built on quality, consistency and genuine hospitality.

  • The Tollemache Arms, Northamptonshire

    The Tollemache Arms is where timeless pub heritage meets outstanding modern hospitality. At the heart of its community, it offers warm, intuitive service, a lively atmosphere and beautifully kept, character-rich interiors. The bar champions quality ales, premium spirits and local craft drinks, while fresh seasonal menus showcase trusted local suppliers, making food central to relaxed lunches and memorable evenings alike.

Regenerative Tourism Award

  • Edgbaston Park Hotel and Conference Centre, Birmingham

    This award-winning hotel owned by the University of Birmingham combines contemporary hospitality with strong social and environmental responsibility. As a certified B Corp, it champions people, planet and community through ethical practices and local engagement. Set within landscaped gardens beside the University’s green campus, the hotel protects wildlife and habitats while working towards a net zero carbon future in line with the University’s sustainability goals.

  • Eight at Gazegill by Doug Crampton, Lancashire 

    Eight at Gazegill is a farm-to-fork dining experience set in a green oak-framed, glass-walled building overlooking a hay meadow in rural Lancashire. Fully off‑grid, it showcases food grown, reared and foraged on the farm, with menus changing every few weeks to reflect the farming year. Organic raw milk soft serve from the farm’s rare breed dairy herd features on desserts. Rooted in sustainability, seasonality and stewardship, Eight connects diners directly to nature.

  • Gladwins Farm - Self Catering Holiday Cottages, Suffolk

    Set in 22 acres of Suffolk countryside, Gladwins Farm is a family-run collection of eco-conscious holiday cottages and lodges where regenerative tourism is central to every stay. Powered by solar energy and biomass, with rainwater recycling and a natural sewage system, the site operates fully off-grid year-round. Car-free holidays, strong support for local suppliers and community-led education help guests enjoy memorable stays that nurture the land and leave a lighter footprint.

Self-Catering Accommodation of the Year

  • Bosinver Farm Cottages, Cornwall

    Laid out like a small hamlet, Bosinver Farm Cottages offers 20 detached self‑catering cottages within 30 acres of peaceful farm and woodland near Cornwall’s south coast. Children play freely while families relax together with nature on the doorstep. From eco homes to converted farmhouses, every cottage is 4 or 5 Star Gold rated, individually designed with stylish interiors, open‑plan living and a focus on comfort, space and thoughtful inclusive accessibility.

  • Cedar Hollow @ The Oaks, Oxfordshire

    Cedar Hollow at The Oaks is a self‑catering sanctuary inspired by the world of C.S. Lewis, where wellness meets wonder. Set in ancient woodland, handcrafted retreats include a treetop hideaway and storybook‑inspired dens filled with escape rooms, secret doors and enchanted details. Created by skilled artisans, each stay blends imagination with modern comfort, inviting guests of all ages to relax, explore, reconnect and enjoy a truly magical woodland escape.

  • Rowley Farm Holidays, Worcestershire

    Rowley Farm Holidays offers luxurious self‑catering cottages set in the heart of the Worcestershire countryside. Beautifully refurbished farm buildings sleep two to four guests, combining stylish interiors with a peaceful rural setting. Surrounded by meadows, rolling hills and bluebell woods, the cottages are ideal for relaxed escapes or exploring the county’s food and walking scene, with a long‑standing and much‑loved reputation for warmly welcoming dogs.

Small Hotel of the Year

  • Farlam Hall Hotel & Restaurant, Cumbria

    Set in the Cumbrian countryside, Farlam Hall Hotel & Restaurant combines refined luxury with a strong commitment to regenerative tourism. Led by Chef Patron Hrishikesh Desai, Michelin‑standard dining showcases local ingredients through a farm‑to‑table approach. Sustainability underpins everything, from eco‑conscious operations to apprenticeships and artisan support. Elegant rooms, exceptional cuisine and deep community ties make Farlam Hall a destination where luxury is delivered with purpose.

  • Peak Edge Hotel, Derbyshire

    Nestled on the edge of the Peak District, Peak Edge Hotel is a relaxed yet refined rural retreat known for heartfelt hospitality and personal service. With 27 stylish rooms, sweeping views and the award‑winning 2 AA Rosette Red Lion Restaurant, the hotel champions farm‑to‑table dining using produce from its own Red Tractor‑accredited farm. Immersive stays, independent spirit and authentic charm create a luxury experience with genuine soul.

  • The Tempus, Northumberland

    Located in the heart of Northumberland, The Tempus blends heritage character with contemporary, design‑led luxury. Created with Jeffreys Interiors Edinburgh, eclectic bedrooms and stylish shared spaces deliver an immersive guest experience. Welcoming leisure travellers, business guests and the local community alike, versatile venues host celebrations, retreats and events year‑round. Exceptional service, creativity and attention to detail make The Tempus a destination guests are drawn back to time and again.

Small Visitor Attraction of the Year

  • Ad Gefrin Anglo-Saxon Museum & Whisky Distillery, Northumberland

    Ad Gefrin Anglo‑Saxon Museum and Whisky Distillery celebrates Northumbria’s heritage through immersive history, food and drink. A re‑imagined 7th‑century Great Hall and museum bring the Anglo‑Saxon royal court and Golden Age to life. Home to England’s first single malt whisky, guided tours reveal the distilling journey, ending in a multi‑sensory tasting room with Cheviot views. Beodern bistro champions local produce, with distinctive contemporary gifts in the shop.

  • Morgan Experience, Worcestershire

    The Morgan Experience, at the home of the Morgan Motor Company, offers immersive factory tours revealing the craftsmanship behind these iconic cars. Visitors enjoy guided and self‑drive experiences across the UK and Europe, alongside an interactive museum, showroom and archive room. A welcoming café serving seasonal local food and a well‑stocked Morgan Shop complete a friendly, engaging destination celebrating heritage, design and the enduring joy of driving.

  • National Justice Museum, Nottinghamshire

    In Nottingham’s Lace Market, the National Justice Museum occupies the Grade II* listed Shire Hall, once a place of trials, punishment and executions. Across five atmospheric floors, visitors explore a Victorian courtroom, Georgian gaol and historic cells. Costumed interpreters and daily interactive performances bring 650 years of stories to life, while changing exhibitions explore modern social justice themes, encouraging reflection, debate and participation.

Taste of England Award

  • Blackfriars, Newcastle

    Dating back to 1239, Blackfriars Dominican Friary houses Britain’s oldest dining room in its historic former refectory. The restaurant serves traditional and historic dishes using fresh, local and seasonal produce, celebrating medieval and regional flavours. Service is relaxed and welcoming yet professional, with consistent attention to detail and excellent value. Blackfriars is renowned for its authentic Medieval Banquets, special events and cookery classes.

  • Carriages Restaurant, Herefordshire

    Carriages Restaurant is an elegant fine‑dining destination offering refined cooking and warm, attentive service from the moment guests arrive. Diners enjoy à la carte and tasting menus paired with a thoughtfully curated wine list, alongside welcoming canapés and house‑made focaccia. Menus change every six to eight weeks, showcasing the best of Herefordshire and the British Isles and ensuring every visit delivers a memorable, beautifully judged dining experience.

  • Eight at Gazegill by Doug Crampton, Lancashire 

    Eight at Gazegill offers an exceptional farm‑to‑fork dining experience set in a striking green oak and glass restaurant overlooking a hay meadow in Lancashire. Menus reflect the farming year, with produce drawn from the farmed and foraged larder and changing every few weeks. Organic raw milk soft‑serve, made from the farm’s rare breed dairy herd, features on desserts, while brunch, lunch and dinner menus cater for a wide range of tastes and dietary preferences.

Unsung Hero Award

  • Andy Black - Horses and Ponies Protection Association, Lancashire

    Andy is the Café Manager at The Café at HAPPA and his impact reaches far beyond hospitality. He transformed the café into a welcoming destination, significantly increasing revenue, repeat visits and the overall visitor experience. Andy leads successful themed events, champions local suppliers and mentors his team with genuine care. Known for his warmth and tireless dedication, he consistently goes above and beyond for visitors, colleagues and animal welfare, strengthening HAPPA’s charitable mission every day.

  • Jayne Chapman - Tatton Park, Cheshire

    Jayne is the heart of Tatton Park’s Farm, with more than 35 years of exceptional dedication. As Farm Manager, she has shaped the site into a thriving, educational attraction through innovation, sustainability and deep care for people and animals. From championing rare breeds and pollinators to leading major events, volunteers and community initiatives, Jayne’s inspirational leadership, compassion and resilience have a lasting impact on visitors, colleagues and the wider farming community.

  • Viv Smith - National Stone Centre, Derbyshire

    Viv is an extraordinary volunteer at the National Stone Centre, admired for her tireless commitment and passion for sharing knowledge. From running the Rock Shop to delivering school sessions and leading family fossil tours, she enhances every visitor experience. Viv’s self‑researched activities, handwritten resources and determination in all weathers have raised vital funds, inspired thousands of visitors and strengthened learning across the site, making her contribution truly invaluable.