The county’s tourism sector was celebrated on Friday 15th March, at the annual Visit Worcestershire Tourism Awards.
Over 60 finalists were shortlisted by industry-expert judges, with 14 winners recognised for their excellence and contribution to the Worcestershire visitor economy. Winners will now be put forward to the VisitEngland Awards of Excellence, in the hope of being named a national finalist after going through an additional judging process led by a VisitEngland panel.
The glamorous awards evening was held at the impressive Ombersley Court and was once again hosted by comedian, actor and author, Hal Cruttenden. Guests enjoyed a Worcestershire-themed menu, utilising local produce all sourced within the county as well as regional drink producers including Astley Vineyard, Wagtail Retreat and Piston Distillery.
Lorna Robinson, Visitor Economy Manager for Visit Worcestershire said: “Friday was a huge celebration of Worcestershire’s tourism and hospitality sector. Every year I am blown away by our businesses passion, commitment and drive, showcased perfectly by all our finalists. I just want to offer again my huge congratulations to all our winners, but especially to Astley Vineyard who embody everything that is brilliant about our sector. I would also like to thank all of our generous sponsors, who without their support – this event would not be possible. Especially to Gemini Hospitality and Fews Marquees who provided the perfect setting for the event”.
The event also raised vital funds for local charity, St Richard’s Hospice, with a prize draw raffle filled with Worcestershire prizes. £3,326 pounds was raised to support the work of St Richard’s in our local community ahead of their new summer art trail, Waddle of Worcester.
A special award completed the ceremony, acknowledging the highest-scoring finalist and outstanding feedback from the judging process. Astley Vineyard were crowned the Winner of Winners Award, recognising their commitment to continuously flying the Worcestershire flag, their sustainable business practices and excellent product development in the experiential tourism market.
The annual event is now firmly placed in the event season calendar and entries for next year’s awards will be open next month. Visit Worcestershire would encourage any tourism or hospitality businesses to get involved and gain from the ever-growing number of benefits that the Tourism Awards can bring to your business. Further details will be published on the Visit Worcestershire trade website – visitworcestershire.org/trade
Visit Worcestershire Tourism Awards Winners 23/24
Business Events Venue of the Year
Stanbrook Abbey Hotel
Camping, Glamping and Holiday Park of the Year
Redhill Holidays
Ethical, Responsible and Sustainable Tourism Award
Astley Vineyard
Experience of the Year
Piston Distillery
Large Hotel of the Year
Hogarths Stone Manor Hotel
Large Visitor Attraction of the Year
Attwell Farm Park
New Tourism Business of the Year
Natures Edge Cabin
Pub of the Year
The Hadley Bowling Green
Self-Catering Accommodation of the Year
Treeopia
Small Serviced Accommodation Provider of the Year
Eckington Manor
Small Visitor Attraction of the Year
Morgan Experience
Taste of Worcestershire Award
The Cottage in the Wood Malvern
Festival and Event of the Year
Battle of Evesham
Winner of Winners
Astley Vineyard
