Entries are now open for the 2026 Tourism Awards across the South West, with tourism and hospitality businesses in Dorset, Devon, Bristol, Bath, Somerset, Gloucestershire, and Cornwall encouraged to take part. Entry is free across all programmes, with submissions closing at midnight on 31 May.
Run in partnership with the VisitEngland Awards for Excellence, the awards celebrate excellence across the region’s diverse visitor economy and provide businesses of all sizes with the opportunity to gain recognition, increase their profile, and receive valuable independent feedback.
Selected winners from each area will go on to compete at the national VisitEngland Awards for Excellence in 2027.
Across all programmes, entrants benefit from increased visibility, PR opportunities, and detailed feedback from industry experts. Workshops, guidance sessions, and ongoing support are also available to help businesses prepare their submissions.
Dorset Tourism Awards 2026The Dorset Tourism Awards are supported by headline sponsor Tomorrows Travel.
Jay Thornton, Commercial & Engineering Director at Tomorrows Travel, said, “We’re proud to be the headline sponsor for Dorset Tourism Awards and to recognise the outstanding businesses and individuals who make Dorset such a compelling destination. Celebrating excellence across the tourism industry is vital to strengthening tourism today and building its future for tomorrow.”
Previous entrants, Bagwell Farm Touring Park, commented, “The process was clear from start to finish and the judges’ feedback was incredibly useful. The awards team were supportive and encouraging throughout.”
Contact / Entry Details: www.dorsettourismawards.org.uk
Devon Tourism Awards 2026Robin Barker, Awards Director, commented, “Every year we’re blown away by the quality and diversity of tourism businesses in Devon. These awards are a fantastic opportunity to reflect on what you do and get the recognition and reward you deserve.”
Previous entrants, Iain & Jack White-Duncan, from One Drake Road and Apartments, told us, “We found the Devon Tourism Awards to be extremely well organised and credible. Entering was as valuable as winning. The process encouraged us to step back and celebrate what makes our business special, while also identifying areas for growth. The judging felt thorough, fair and rooted in a genuine understanding of hospitality and community engagement.”
Contact / Entry Details: www.devontourismawards.org.uk
Bristol, Bath, Somerset & Gloucestershire Tourism Awards 2026
Nell Barrington, Awards Director, said: “I know how many brilliant businesses there are across Bristol, Bath, Somerset and Gloucestershire, and I’d love to see more of you getting the recognition and reward you deserve. So many entrants have told me about the positive impact the awards have had on them, and we’re here to make it as easy as possible for you to take part.”
Previous entrants, Tyrone and Neil Mundell-Phipps from Myrtle Cottage, Porlock, told us, “We genuinely see no downside to entering these awards. The process offers invaluable insights and feedback, the chance to build meaningful connections, and, of course, the exciting possibility of winning.”
Contact / Entry Details: www.somersettourismawards.org.uk
Cornwall Tourism Awards 2026The Cornwall Tourism Awards are supported by headline sponsor St Austell Brewery and are open to businesses across Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly.
Laura McKay, Marketing & Communications Director at St Austell Brewery, said, “We’re proud to support the Cornwall Tourism Awards and to celebrate the passion, quality, and innovation that drive Cornwall’s visitor economy. These awards offer an opportunity to spotlight outstanding businesses across the county and the people who help make it such a vibrant and unique destination.”
Previous entrant, Rachael Gifford from Ekopod, told us, “I’ve entered the Cornwall Tourism Awards several times and have always found them outstanding. The judging is professional and thorough, and the feedback is incredibly helpful in improving our business. Attending the awards ceremony is always a real joy – it’s such a positive celebration of Cornish tourism. It’s been a fantastic boost, providing excellent exposure for our small business.”
Contact / Entry Details: www.cornwalltourismawards.org.uk
Businesses across the South West are encouraged to take advantage of this opportunity to showcase their achievements, gain expert feedback, and be recognised among the region’s leading tourism operators.
