Celebrating Excellence in England’s Tourism Industry
England’s tourism industry is renowned for its rich history, stunning landscapes, and exceptional hospitality. Each year, the VisitEngland Awards for Excellence celebrate the best of the best across various categories. The 2026 awards were announced on June 3, highlighting businesses that consistently raise the bar in the sector.
The awards are divided into 17 categories, with Gold, Silver, and Bronze medals given out from 21 local awards. Tourism Minister Stephanie Peacock expressed her delight at seeing so many businesses across England being recognized for their outstanding work, which helps make people’s stays as enjoyable and memorable as possible.
VisitEngland Director Andrew Stokes emphasized that the awards are a celebration of England’s outstanding tourism industry and an opportunity to highlight the excellence that makes it world-leading. He praised the variety of award recipients, from traditional blacksmith experiences to accessible and inclusive holidays, all of whom are passionate about tourism.
Top Winners in Key Categories
B&B and Guest House of the Year – MonkBridge House, York
MonkBridge House secured gold in the B&B and Guest House of the Year category. Located in York, this five-star accommodation dates back to 1864 and boasts eight rooms. The family-run guesthouse was previously the home of two Lord Mayors of York and is only a 10-minute walk to the city centre. Guests can choose from double, twin, and triple room options, with one room called the Rymer featuring a luxurious four-poster bed.
Camping, Glamping and Holiday Park of the Year – Clawford Lakes Resort and Spa, Devon
Spread across 98 acres in the Devon countryside, Clawford Lakes Resort and Spa won gold in the Camping, Glamping and Holiday Park category. Less than 30 minutes away from the seaside resort of Bude, the resort offers a range of accommodation options including cocoons, floating lodges, lake pods, luxury lodges, holiday homes, and smart apartments. Guests can enjoy lakeside views and immerse themselves in local wildlife.
Large Hotel of the Year – Bovey Castle, Devon
Located in Dartmoor National Park, Bovey Castle is a regal abode with a fascinating history dating back to 1890. The hotel achieved five-star status in 2004 and now offers 60 luxurious hotel rooms and suites across the manor and courtyard. Guests can enjoy activities such as archery, air rifle shooting, and 4×4 off-road driving.
Small Hotel of the Year – The Tempus, Northumberland
Situated inside the Charlton Hall Estate in Northumberland, The Tempus won gold in the Small Hotel of the Year category. The boutique accommodation gets its name from the Latin word for ‘time’ and provides an escape that allows guests to slow down and relax. There are 41 individually designed rooms that are all ensuite, offering options for families and couples alike.
Self-Catering Accommodation of the Year – Bosinver Farm Cottages, Cornwall
Bosinver Farm Cottages in Cornwall won gold in the Self-Catering Accommodation of the Year category. It offers 20 holiday cottages on 35 acres of meadows and landscaped gardens where guests can stay and immerse themselves in the outdoors and farm. Activities include animal feeding, egg collecting, and exploring woodland nature trails.
Pub of the Year – The Kirkstyle Inn and Sportsman’s Rest, Northumberland
As for the best spot to eat and drink in England, The Kirkstyle Inn took gold in the Pub of the Year category. Located in the Northumberland moorlands, the pub serves up seasonal food made with local produce. Sunday lunch includes roast beef with Yorkshire pudding, cauliflower cheese, seasonal vegetables, roast potatoes, and gravy, priced at £28.
Large Visitor Attraction of the Year – Jimmy’s Farm & Wildlife Park, Suffolk
Jimmy’s Farm and Wildlife Park in Suffolk secured gold for Large Visitor Attraction of the Year. It is home to over 100 different animal species and breeds, ranging from pigs and polar bears to camels and crocodiles. The attraction is open seven days a week, with adult tickets priced at £25 online and children at £20.
Small Visitor Attraction of the Year – Morgan Experience, Worcestershire
The Morgan Experience, located on the historic site of Morgan Motor Company in Worcestershire, was named the Small Visitor Attraction of the Year by VisitEngland. Visitors can experience driving a Morgan, priced from £120, and explore the craftsmanship behind the impressive vehicles through a factory tour.
Experience of the Year – Blacksmithing Experience Days, Oldfield Forge, Herefordshire
If metalwork and blacksmithing catches your eye, one of the experience days at Oldfield Forge in Herefordshire may be for you. VisitEngland awarded the attraction gold in the Experience of the Year category for its Blacksmithing Experience Days. A range of packages are available, from knife making to couples’ days.
Full List of VisitEngland Awards for Excellence 2026 Winners
- Accessible & Inclusive Tourism Award: Gold – Hoe Grange Holidays, Peak District, Derbyshire
- B&B and Guest House of the Year: Gold – MonkBridge House, York
- Business Events Venue of the Year: Gold – Warwick Conferences, Warwick
- Camping, Glamping and Holiday Park of the Year: Gold – Clawford Lakes Resort and Spa, Devon
- Experience of the Year: Gold – Blacksmithing Experience Days, Oldfield Forge, Herefordshire
- International Tourism Award: Gold – The Beatles Story, Liverpool
- Large Hotel of the Year: Gold – Bovey Castle, Devon
- Large Visitor Attraction of the Year: Gold – Jimmy’s Farm & Wildlife Park, Suffolk
- New Tourism Business of the Year: Gold – One Acre Wood, Herefordshire
- Pub of the Year: Gold – The Kirkstyle Inn and Sportsman’s Rest, Northumberland
- Regenerative Tourism Award: Gold – Eight at Gazegill by Doug Crampton, Lancashire
- Self-Catering Accommodation of the Year: Gold – Bosinver Farm Cottages, Cornwall
- Small Hotel of the Year: Gold – The Tempus, Northumberland
- Small Visitor Attraction of the Year: Gold – Morgan Experience, Worcestershire
- Taste of England Award: Gold – Carriages Restaurant, Herefordshire
- Unsung Hero Award: Gold – Jayne Chapman – Tatton Park, Cheshire
- Travel Content Award: Gold – Rhiannon Batten, The Guardian – ‘From farms to fork: a food-lover’s cycle tour of Herefordshire’
- Outstanding Contribution to Tourism Award: Butlin’s: Book Family Holidays and Short Breaks at UK Holiday Parks
- Tourism Superstar Award: Mick Hurst: CEO and founder of The Battle of Evesham historical events and re-enactments – Mick Hurst – Battle Of Evesham Shop
