Tourism businesses across the South West are stepping forward in record numbers this year, with all four regional awards programmes reporting strong growth in entries — a powerful reflection of the sector’s resilience, ambition and continued investment in quality.
Across Bristol, Bath, Somerset and Gloucestershire, Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly, Devon and Dorset, more than 590 entries have been submitted for 2026, with each programme marking either a milestone anniversary or a significant rise in participation.
Celebrating its 10th anniversary, the Bristol, Bath, Somerset & Gloucestershire Tourism Awards has recorded one of its strongest years yet, with 152 completed entries — an increase of more than 20% on 2025’s total of 126. Since launching in 2016 with 111 entries, participation has grown by almost 37%.
Nell Barrington, Awards Director, said, “We are delighted with the response from businesses across Bristol, Bath, Somerset and Gloucestershire as we celebrate the 10th anniversary of the awards. The increase in entries shows that businesses continue to value independent recognition and feedback, while also demonstrating the strength and resilience of tourism across the region.”
John Johnston, from new headline sponsor JEH Laundry Services, added, “We are proud to be supporting the Bristol, Bath, Somerset and Gloucestershire Tourism Awards as headline sponsors for the first time. The quality and diversity of tourism businesses across the region is remarkable, and it is fantastic to see so many businesses taking the opportunity to showcase their achievements and commitment to excellence.”
In Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly, the Tourism Awards are marking their 25th anniversary year, with 151 completed entries submitted from across the region’s visitor economy, spanning accommodation, attractions, restaurants, experiences and events.
Robin Barker, Awards Director, said, “The Cornwall and Isles of Scilly tourism industry continues to set exceptionally high standards. It is encouraging to see so many businesses investing time in entering the awards and seeking independent feedback. The awards celebrate not only success, but also the dedication, creativity and hard work that go into delivering memorable visitor experiences across the region.”
Laura Plum, Marketing and Communications Director at headline sponsor St Austell Brewery, said, “We’re delighted to see such strong engagement from tourism businesses across Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly, particularly in this milestone year. The strength of our visitor economy lies in the passion, innovation and care shown by those who work in it every day. These awards are a valuable opportunity to recognise businesses that consistently go the extra mile and play such an important role in shaping outstanding experiences for visitors in our region.”
The Devon Tourism Awards also report a significant uplift, with 157 completed entries submitted — up 12% on 2025’s total of 140 and almost double the number recorded when the awards launched in 2010 with just 80 entries. The county has attracted the highest number of entries across the region this year, highlighting the scale and diversity of its tourism offer.
Robin Barker, Awards Director, said, “It is fantastic to see so many Devon businesses taking the opportunity to benchmark themselves against the very best in the industry. The growth in entries reflects the innovation and resilience of Devon’s tourism sector. Every year we are inspired by the quality of businesses entering and the passion they show for creating outstanding visitor experiences.”
Meanwhile, Dorset Tourism Awards has recorded the fastest growth of all four programmes, with 131 completed entries for 2026 — up more than 22% on last year’s 107 submissions. Since launching in 2013 with just 60 entries, participation in Dorset has more than doubled.
Nell Barrington, Awards Director, said, “It is wonderful to see so many Dorset businesses recognising the value of entering. Whether they are seeking feedback, celebrating their teams or raising their profile, the awards provide an opportunity to highlight the very best of Dorset tourism. The increase in entries demonstrates the ambition and quality that exists throughout the county.”
Jay Thornton, Commercial and Engineering Director at Tomorrows Travel Group, added, “Having proudly supported the Dorset Tourism Awards for the past two years, we’re delighted to take on the role of headline sponsor and further strengthen our commitment to an industry that sits at the heart of everything we do at Tomorrows Travel Group. We see first-hand the passion, innovation and resilience that drives tourism businesses, and we understand the important role they play in supporting local communities, creating employment and contributing to regional growth. The Dorset Tourism Awards provide a fantastic platform to recognise and celebrate that excellence.”
Judging is now underway across all four programmes, with finalists due to be announced later this year. Winners will be revealed at awards ceremonies across the South West, starting in Dorset at the Marsham Court Hotel in Bournemouth on 22 October, followed by Cornwall at Truro Cathedral on 12 November, Bristol, Bath, Somerset & Gloucestershire at Batch Country House on 26 November, and Devon at the Crowne Plaza Plymouth on 3 December.
Winners in eligible categories across all programmes will go on to represent the region at the VisitEngland Awards for Excellence, putting the South West firmly on the national stage.
Taken together, this year’s record entry figures paint a clear picture: despite ongoing challenges, tourism businesses across the South West remain committed to raising standards, investing in their offer, and delivering exceptional visitor experiences — with more businesses than ever stepping forward to be recognised among the very best the region has to offer.
