The 2025 Tourism Awards across Cornwall, Devon, and Dorset have officially closed their entry periods, revealing a vibrant and growing tourism and hospitality sector across the South West. With entries consistently on the rise, these regional awards continue to set a national benchmark for excellence and transparency.
All three award programmes have once again achieved “Outstanding” accreditation from the Awards Trust Mark – the highest level. Karen Sutton, Awards Trust Mark lead assessor, affirmed the rigorous standards: “A robust entry and judging process is vital, not just for award entrants but for the industry as a whole. It’s important to shine a light on awards schemes that operate with the highest ethical standards and transparency. The tourism awards run by Services for Tourism exemplify how awards should be managed.”
The judging phase is now underway, with businesses of all types and sizes vying for recognition. Robin Barker, Services for Tourism, Awards Director, expressed his satisfaction with the continued growth: “It’s great to see another year of year-on-year growth in entries – growing every year since the pandemic. It’s also so rewarding to see businesses of all types and sizes taking part, clearly welcoming the benefits including free feedback and the chance to progress on to the national VisitEngland awards. I love working with leading suppliers to the industry as sponsors – gaining their input and support brings so many additional benefits to an industry that – now more than ever – links with every part of the economy.”
Regional Highlights
Cornwall saw entries increase by 6.6% on last year, reflecting the county’s sustained energy and pride. Stuart Reid, Chief Executive of the Isles of Scilly Steamship Group, headline sponsor of this year’s Cornwall awards, commented: “It’s inspiring to see such a high number of entries to the awards this year. The volume and quality of submissions reflects the world-class standards of Cornwall’s tourism industry. We’re proud to support an awards programme that celebrates the passion and dedication behind every visitor experience in our region.” The Cornwall Tourism Awards Ceremony will announce winners at Truro Cathedral on 13 November 2025.
Devon received 140 entries from a diverse range of businesses, including hotels, camping, glamping and holiday parks, attractions, cafes, restaurants, pubs, and event organisers. Mark Worden, from MiHi Digital, headline sponsor for Devon, said: “We’re delighted to see so many brilliant businesses entering once again this year. It’s a real testament to the strength and creativity of Devon’s tourism sector. These awards play an important role in recognising the people and places that help make the county such a standout destination – even in challenging trading conditions – and we’re pleased to support that.” The Devon Tourism Awards Ceremony is scheduled for Sandy Park Exeter on 27 November 2025.
Dorset experienced a rise in entries to 105, showcasing participation from a wide array of tourism and hospitality businesses. The Dorset Tourism Awards Ceremony will take place at Weymouth Pavilion on 16 October 2025.
National Recognition Awaits
A number of winners from these regional awards will go on to compete in the prestigious VisitEngland for Excellence Awards. Last year’s champions from the South West are already making their mark on the national stage, with the finals taking place in Brighton on 4 June. Cornwall is proudly represented by Boscastle House, Treworgey Cottages, Polmanter Touring Park, and Mylor Sailing School. From Devon, The Farmers Arms and Wolf Wood Treehouses have progressed, while Dorset’s champions include Marsham Court Hotel, Summer Lodge Hotel, and Sculpture by the Lakes. All are wished the best of luck in representing their respective counties.
For full details on each of the awards, please visit their official websites:
Cornwall Tourism Awards: www.cornwalltourismawards.org.uk
Devon Tourism Awards: www.devontourismawards.org.uk
Dorset Tourism Awards: www.dorsettourismawards.org.uk
