Photo by: Ad Gefrin Anglo-Saxon Museum & Whisky Distillery/Sally Ann Norman

Ad Gefrin Anglo-Saxon Museum & Whisky Distillery, VisitEngland Awards for Excellence 2025 Gold Winner

VisitEngland Awards for Excellence 2026

From memorable days out and places to stay to inspiring visitor experiences, the winners of the 2026 VisitEngland Awards for Excellence highlight some of the best tourism businesses in England. 

Whether you’re planning your next short break, family adventure or foodie escape, discover the award-winning businesses that are setting the standard for tourism in England.

Read on to discover your new must-visits, from the pub of the year and the best hotels to first-class attractions across the country.

Accessible and Inclusive Tourism Award

GOLD: Hoe Grange Holidays

Peak District

Unwind on a peaceful working farm in Derbyshire where access needs are treated as a priority. Hoe Grange’s self-catering cabins come with specialist equipment, an accessible hot tub and two Boma 7 off-road wheelchairs, ready for the High Peak Trail or farm tracks. The calm setting also welcomes guests with autism and learning disabilities.

Photo by: Hoe Grange Holidays

Wooden cabin with green trim, elevated deck, outdoor lounge, lanterns and garden at sunset, rural setting.

SILVER: Nottingham Playhouse

Nottingham

Settle into your seat for stories shaped by Nottingham and the people who call it home. The Nottingham Playhouse stages a rich programme throughout the year and nurtures future East Midlands theatre-makers. BSL-interpreted, captioned, audio-described, relaxed and dementia-friendly performances mean more people can share the thrill of a live theatre.

Photo by: Nottingham Playhouse/Pamela Raith

Stage performance with a person in a sparkling gown gesturing dramatically and another person lying on a table in a whimsical setting.

BRONZE: Attwell Farm Park

Worcestershire

Meet, feed and pet farm favourites, then tackle a three-tier soft play at this family-run Worcestershire farm park. A day out here is designed with different needs in mind, with SEN peaceful play mornings, familiarisation visits, Makaton signage, a Quiet Room, ear defenders to borrow and free carer entry.

Photo by: Attwell Farm Park

An adult shows two children a large stick insect in an indoor educational setting with wooden walls, display panels behind them.

  • GOLD: Hoe Grange Holidays

    Peak District

    Unwind on a peaceful working farm in Derbyshire where access needs are treated as a priority. Hoe Grange’s self-catering cabins come with specialist equipment, an accessible hot tub and two Boma 7 off-road wheelchairs, ready for the High Peak Trail or farm tracks. The calm setting also welcomes guests with autism and learning disabilities.

    Photo by: Hoe Grange Holidays

    Wooden cabin with green trim, elevated deck, outdoor lounge, lanterns and garden at sunset, rural setting.

  • SILVER: Nottingham Playhouse

    Nottingham

    Settle into your seat for stories shaped by Nottingham and the people who call it home. The Nottingham Playhouse stages a rich programme throughout the year and nurtures future East Midlands theatre-makers. BSL-interpreted, captioned, audio-described, relaxed and dementia-friendly performances mean more people can share the thrill of a live theatre.

    Photo by: Nottingham Playhouse/Pamela Raith

    Stage performance with a person in a sparkling gown gesturing dramatically and another person lying on a table in a whimsical setting.

  • BRONZE: Attwell Farm Park

    Worcestershire

    Meet, feed and pet farm favourites, then tackle a three-tier soft play at this family-run Worcestershire farm park. A day out here is designed with different needs in mind, with SEN peaceful play mornings, familiarisation visits, Makaton signage, a Quiet Room, ear defenders to borrow and free carer entry.

    Photo by: Attwell Farm Park

    An adult shows two children a large stick insect in an indoor educational setting with wooden walls, display panels behind them.

B&B and Guest House of the Year

GOLD: MonkBridge House

York

Just a ten-minute walk from York Minster, this family-run guesthouse makes an historical base for exploring the city. Built in 1864 and once home to prominent merchants and two Lord Mayors, MonkBridge House now has eight refurbished rooms, some looking towards the Minster or River Foss. The whole house can also be hired for special occasions.

Photo by: MonkBridge House

Traditional bedroom with a four-poster bed, vintage decor, patterned curtains, and two red armchairs by a large window.

SILVER: One Drake Road and Apartments

Devon

Stay in the heart of Tavistock, a west Devon market town, at a guesthouse whose story began in 1752, when it stood as an inn on the old coach road from London to Truro. Today, the main house has six elegant bedrooms and a welcoming drawing room, joined by five private apartments, all moments from the charming town square with its pubs and restaurants.

Photo by: One Drake Road

Cozy eclectic living room with sofas, colorful cushions, art-filled walls, bookshelves, and a central coffee table near a window.

BRONZE: Holly Lodge Boutique Bed & Breakfast

Norfolk

Tucked away in landscaped gardens, Holly Lodge pairs 18th-century character with plenty of five-star touches. Breakfast is served in the garden conservatory, made with ingredients from local suppliers. If you’re looking for complete seclusion, there’s also a luxury shepherd’s hut at the foot of the garden with views across the North Norfolk countryside.

Photo by: Holly Lodge Boutique Bed & Breakfast

Traditional house with red roof tiles, large tree, manicured lawn and outbuilding, under a clear sky.

Camping, Glamping and Holiday Park of the Year

GOLD: Clawford Lakes Resort and Spa

Devon

Wake beside the water in a floating lodge, luxury lake pod or cocoon, surrounded by the flora and fauna of rural west Devon. Less than half an hour from Bude and close to two National Parks, Clawford Lakes is made for slow mornings, paddleboarding, fishing and watching wildlife from the lakeside. Dogs can join the escape at no extra charge.

Photo by: Clawford Lakes Resort & Spa

Deck with lounge chairs over a blue lake, people paddleboarding, surrounded by trees under a partly cloudy sky.

SILVER: Bredon View Glamping Retreats

Worcestershire

On the edge of the Cotswolds near Pershore, grass-covered pods settle gently into a landscape of wildflowers and open skies. Each one comes with private outdoor space, a wood-fired hot tub and a firepit barbecue, ready for evenings outside. To top it off, you can add a celebration, breakfast or barbecue hamper to your stay.

Photo by: Bredon View Glamping Retreats

Cozy modern pod interior with arched brick ceiling, kitchenette, sofa, rug, and large glass doors opening to a scenic rural landscape.

BRONZE: Kaya at Blackhill Farm Ltd

Herefordshire

Stargaze from the bath at this adults-only glamping retreat between the Wye Valley National Landscape and Brecon Beacons National Park. Three yurts come with firepits and barbecues, while Offa’s Dyke Path runs close by for days on foot. When evening arrives, a Michelin Guide pub is waiting just along the way.

Photo by: Kaya at Blackhill Farm

Cozy wooden bedroom with a rustic bed, pillows, decorative wall art, and ambient lighting in a cabin-style setting.

Experience of the Year

GOLD: Blacksmithing Experience, Oldfield Forge Ltd

Herefordshire

Feel the heat of the forge and shape glowing metal into a ring or even a sword made by your own hands. Founded by a highly skilled forging family in 2007, Oldfield Forge shares the tradition of blacksmithing through experience days for a range of ages. Guided by expert smiths, you will learn time-honoured techniques while creating a contemporary or traditional piece to take home.

Photo by: Oldfield Forge

A diverse group of people posing and waving inside a rustic workshop or forge, with wooden walls and safety signs visible.

SILVER: The Wizard Walk of York

York

Go on a quest to find weird and wonderful creatures as you ‘wand-er’ the historical Snickelways and secret passages of York. This whimsical tour is ideal for aspiring witches and wizards of all ages, and a family-friendly alternative to a ghost walk. For the full experience, Wizard Wand Kits are also available including a handcrafted wand and instructions for seven tricks that young witches and wizards can learn at home. Public tours run regularly, and private tours are available too.

Photo by: Wizard Walk of York/The Story Of You

Location: York, England

A wizard holding an owl on a hawking glove.

BRONZE: Make Your Own Distilled Spirit, Shed One

Cumbria

At this small Ulverston distillery, craft gin and vodka begin with botanicals, including ingredients grown and foraged locally. During the Make Your Own Spirit experience, you can turn those flavours into a gin or vodka of your own. Shed One’s story began in a garden shed before moving into The Old Calf Shed – a fitting setting for a hands-on Cumbrian tipple.

Photo by: Shed One Distillery

A group of adults sit around a table in a cozy, decorated room, sharing drinks and laughing together.

Large Hotel of the Year

GOLD: Bovey Castle

Devon

A grand country-house stay in 275 acres of Devon landscape, Bovey Castle has welcomed hotel guests since 1930. Wander its grounds, book a spa treatment or dress up for dinner in the 19th-century manor house. Beyond the quiet luxury, you can also try your hand at archery, clay pigeon shooting, off-road driving, or a round on its championship golf course.

Photo by: Eden Hotels Collection/Bovey Castle Hotel & Spa

A person in traditional attire holds a bald eagle in front of an ornate stone building with arched doorway and large windows.

SILVER: Watergate Bay Hotel

Cornwall

At Watergate Bay, the Atlantic Sea is rarely out of sight — you can even watch surfers from the hotel’s 25-metre infinity pool. Dine with horizon views at Zacry’s or head down to The Beach Hut for relaxed beachside food. With Kids’ Zone sessions, Land Rover Discovery hire and dog-friendly stays, days here are shaped by coast and adventure.

Photo by: The Watergate Bay Hotel

Modern bedroom with sea view, large windows, cozy seating area, and natural light creating a relaxing coastal atmosphere.

BRONZE: The Grand Brighton

Brighton

Brighton’s seafront grande dame has emerged from a £17 million refurbishment ready to host coastal weekends in style. Dine on seasonal dishes at Cyan, follow a sunset stroll with a cocktail in Victoria Bar or take afternoon tea on the famous Victoria Terrace. Outside, the beach, pier and The Lanes are all within easy reach.

Photo by: The Grand Brighton/Leonardo Hotels

Grand historic hotel with ornate balconies and glass entrance, flags flying, under a clear blue sky.

Large Visitor Attraction of the Year

GOLD: Jimmy’s Farm & Wildlife Park

Suffolk

Meet rare-breed pigs and polar bears at Jimmy’s Farm & Wildlife Park. Set in the Suffolk countryside, the park is home to British rare breeds alongside camels, primates, tapir, crocodiles, lions and tigers. Animal feeds, talks and activities bring you closer to the characters who live here.

Photo by: Jimmy's Farm & Wildlife Zoo

A person kneels beside a large black and white pig outdoors on a farm, surrounded by bare trees and soil.

SILVER: Bletchley Park

Buckinghamshire

Walk through the once-secret home of Britain’s Second World War codebreakers. Restored buildings, recreated rooms, immersive film and interactive displays uncover the people and machines behind an operation that helped change the course of history. From brilliant minds to complex ciphers, Bletchley Park turns an extraordinary wartime story into a deeply absorbing day out.

Photo by: Bletchley Park

A young person interacts with an exhibit in a modern museum, surrounded by colorful display cards and informative panels.

BRONZE: Attwell Farm Park

Worcestershire

Meet over 40 species, from familiar farmyard faces to creepy crawlies in the bug barn, before heading for the giant soft play. This family-run farm park makes space for different ways to enjoy the day, with Makaton signage, quiet-room calm, SEN peaceful play mornings, familiarisation visits, ear defenders and free carer entry.

Photo by: Attwell Farm Park

People watching and interacting with an insect on a man's arm in an indoor educational or animal exhibit setting.

Regenerative Tourism Award

GOLD: Eight at Gazegill by Doug Crampton

Lancashire

Eight at Gazegill runs entirely on renewable energy generated on Gazegill Farm, and its menu is packed with locally sourced produce. From home-reared organic beef to foraged girolle mushrooms and Morecambe Bay seabass, this is Lancashire’s larder at its best. The five-course tasting menu features the farm’s freshest seasonal bites.

Photo by: Eight at Gazegill

Close-up of a gourmet dish with sliced beef, sauce being poured, garnishes, and a swirl of green puree on a white plate.

SILVER: Gladwins Farm

Suffolk

Tucked away in tranquil Dedham Vale are a collection of cottages and lodges that make slowing down feel natural. Solar-powered stays, local breakfast produce and car-free adventures sit alongside a wider commitment to the community, including swimming lessons for village schoolchildren. It’s a Suffolk escape where time outdoors comes with a gentler footprint and a meaningful local connection.

Photo by: Gladwins Farm

Large country house with a red roof on a grassy hill, trees, wooden dock, and pond with reflections under a partly cloudy sky.

BRONZE: Edgbaston Park Hotel and Conference Centre

Birmingham

Two miles from Birmingham city centre, this B Corp-certified hotel sits in the leafy calm of the University of Birmingham campus. Alongside contemporary bedrooms and event spaces, there are two characterful restored buildings to discover: redbrick Hornton Grange, once a family home, and Grade II listed Garth House, an Arts and Crafts gem dating from 1900.

Photo by: Edgbaston Park Hotel and Conference Centre

Large historic house with white walls, red brick chimneys, lush green lawn, and landscaped garden under a clear blue sky.

Self Catering Accommodation of the Year

GOLD: Bosinver Farm Cottages

Cornwall

Make yourself at home in a Cornish farm hamlet, where 20 holiday cottages sit among wildflower meadows and landscaped gardens, with beaches close by. Children will love feeding the animals, zip wire and heated pool; while parents in need of a bit of peace and quiet can retreat to the sauna.

Photo by: Bosinver Farm Cottages

Cozy living room with exposed beams, colorful sofas, patterned chair, wood floor, large windows, and a scenic view outside.

SILVER: Cedar Hollow @ The Oaks

Oxfordshire

Step through a magic wardrobe and into a C.S. Lewis-inspired woodland retreat. The treehouse brings the storybook world to life with al fresco dining among the leaves and a woodland zipline. A cave of Illusions, Bee Museum and themed escape room keep the adventure going. And if you want to relax, head to the wellness area for the Jacuzzi, indoor pool and sauna.

Photo by: The Oaks

Cozy, whimsical room with a carved stone fireplace, rustic furniture, fairy lights, and a bed with red drapes and greenery.

BRONZE: Rowley Farm Holidays

Worcestershire

Just north of Worcester you’ll find dog-friendly cottages and handcrafted shepherd’s hut on a working farm surrounded by meadows, woodland and rolling hills. Step outside for countryside walks, meet the farm animals or wander through enclosed gardens with your pooch before taking an evening dip in a wood-fired hot tub.

Photo by: Rowley Farm Holidays

Wooden cabin with open doors, outdoor seating, a grill, large tree, and grass lawn in a rural setting.

Additional categories

Outstanding Contribution to Tourism Award

Butlin’s

International Tourism Award

GOLD: The Beatles Story, Merseyside  

SILVER: Castle Howard, York

BRONZE: Kents Cavern Prehistoric Caves, Devon

New Tourism Business Award

GOLD: One Acre Wood, Herefordshire 

SILVER: The Story of Emily, Cornwall 

BRONZE: Flora and Fauna Exmoor, Exmoor 

Pub of the Year

GOLD: The Kirkstyle Inn and Sportsman’s Rest, Northumberland 

SILVER: The Tickled Trout, Derbyshire 

BRONZE: The Tollemache Arms, Northamptonshire 

Small Hotel of the Year

GOLD: The Tempus, Northumberland 

SILVER: Peak Edge Hotel, Derbyshire 

BRONZE: Farlam Hall Hotel & Restaurant, Cumbria 

Small Visitor Attraction of the Year Award

GOLD: Morgan Experience, Worcestershire 

SILVER:Ad Gefrin Anglo-Saxon Museum and Whisky Distillery, Northumberland 

BRONZE: National Justice Museum, Nottingham 

Taste of England Award

GOLD: Carriages Restaurant, Herefordshire

SILVER: Eight at Gazegill by Doug Crampton, Lancashire

BRONZE: Blackfriars Restaurant, Newcastle

Travel Content Award

GOLD: ‘From farms to fork: a food-lover’s cycle tour of Herefordshire’ , Rhiannon Batten, The Guardian

SILVER: ‘North Yorkshire’s spa holidays are still the best – and cost less than £225’, Emily-Ann Elliott, The i Paper

BRONZE: ‘This charming Herefordshire town is the real star of Hamnet’, Chris Leadbeater, The Telegraph

Unsung Hero Award

GOLD: Jayne Chapman, Farm Manager, Tatton Park, Cheshire 

SILVER: Viv Smith, Volunteer, National Stone Centre, Derbyshire 

BRONZE: Andy Black, Café and Kitchen Manager, HAPPA, Lancashire

FAQs

  • The VisitEngland Awards for Excellence shine a spotlight on some of the best places to visit, stay, eat and experience across England. They celebrate the businesses and people who go the extra mile to give visitors something special – whether that’s a brilliant day out, a memorable meal, or a welcoming place to stay. The awards help you discover experiences you can trust to be high quality, well run and genuinely enjoyable.  

  • This award is all about great food and drink experiences across England. It celebrates places that serve up high quality food and drink – whether that’s a beautifully cooked local dish, a relaxed pub lunch or fine dining experience.  

    It’s a great way to find restaurants, pubs and food experiences that reflect great food across England.   

  • Winners are selected through a detailed judging process where businesses are assessed on what really matters to visitors, including the quality of the experience, customer service, value and accessibility. Learn more about the judging process here.  

    Many of the finalists are already recognised locally or regionally before going forward to the national awards, where they’re reviewed by industry experts to find the very best in England.

  • The awards are designed to showcase the best experiences in England and help provide a brilliant day out for visitors. These businesses have been recognised for doing what they do exceptionally well and it’s an easy way to find places that consistently deliver great experiences.

  • If you’re looking for more sustainable ways to travel, the Regenerative Tourism Award winners are leading the way in responsible tourism. 

    At Eight at Gazegill in Lancashire, sustainability runs through everything - from renewable energy on the farm to seasonal, farm-grown ingredients served in its restaurant. Gladwins Farm Self Catering Holiday Cottages in Suffolk offer a low-impact countryside escape with solar-powered stays, local produce and a strong connection to the surrounding community. In Birmingham, Edgbaston Park Hotel and Conference Centre is a certified B Corp hotel focused on responsible business practices, combining heritage buildings with a more sustainable approach to hospitality.

  • If you’re planning your trip around great food, the Taste of England Award winners are a brilliant place to start. These restaurants celebrate the best of English dining, from farm-to-table cooking to historic settings and modern fine dining. 

    You can enjoy standout experiences like Eight at Gazegill in Lancashire, where dishes are created straight from the farm using organic, seasonal ingredients with views over Pendle Hill. In Newcastle, Blackfriars Restaurant offers dining inside a 13th-century former friary, serving hearty British dishes. Meanwhile, Carriages Restaurant in Herefordshire focuses on carefully sourced local ingredients, with seasonal menus paired with expertly chosen wines and cocktails. 

    Discover our Food and Drink Breaks for more inspiration.