“Without the Awards, I really don’t think our business would have been as successful and thrived over the years.  The awards have allowed us to examine our processes and offerings to ensure that we continue to provide a quality experience. Well before we enter the awards, we critically examine our “offering” and compare it with Best Practice; it is always challenging to be critical of what we presently do and how we can improve it to be “best in class.” This exercise is fundamental in ensuring we stay ahead of the competition and also allows us to “never stand still” in a very competitive marketplace.  This process is so important to the business, coupled with the high-quality feedback from the judges and always a night of celebration to remember, the Tourism Awards is a key date in our calendar.” 

Bob, Millbrook Estate

“As the owners of Whitebeam Wood, are incredibly proud to have received the Silver Award in your New Business Category. This recognition is a testament to the dedication and hard work of the local teams we collaborated with to transform Whitebeam Wood from an uninhabitable structure and overgrown property into the award-winning multiple dog-welcoming self-catering holiday home it is today.”  

Emma & Richard Newey, Whitebeam Wood

“As owners of The Cottages at Blackadon Farm, we feel so privileged to be recognised by Visit England as one of the top three tourism businesses. Our ethics, being responsible and sustainable are at the heart of our business and delighted to be recognised for what we’re doing”.  

Marcus Bailey and Ryan Lynch, The Cottages at Blackadon Farm

“The whole team were thrilled when they found out that we won the gold award in the ‘Experience of the Year’ category.  We always aim to provide the very best in customer service, and to have such positive feedback from the independent panel of judges was acknowledgment of all the teams hard work. Winning this presitgous award sets us apart from other businesses, and we have found it to be a really effective marketing tool.” 

Rob, Raceworld

“A huge thanks for sending through all of the feedback. We were really enthused to read the positive comments and have taken all recommendations and comments on board – the Judge’s feedback is such a valuable assessment of our business from an independent perspective, thank you.” 

Sophie, Saunton Beach Villas

“Even after several years of applying for the awards, we find the detailed judges’ feedback useful.  Having independent assessment from industry professionals is invaluable – and free!  The award ceremonies are an opportunity to meet and network with others from across the industry and celebrate our achievements.  Having won an award, it demonstrates to prospective guests the quality we offer, differenciates us from others and helps attract PR.” 

Andy, The 25 Boutique B&B 

“Thank you very much for the feedback from the judges.  It’s really useful feedback and we will be able to use this to reflect and plan for future works and award applications.” 

Jon, Stover Country Park

“It has been really encouraging to read such positive feedback with clear areas for improvement highlighted. A really useful experience.” 

Alex & Simon, Brackenhill Glamping

“A huge thank you for the feedback, it really is invaluable and is reassuring we’re on the right track and gives us a good steer for what we can do even better. Thanks again and we’ll be sure to enter next year!” 

Emma, Valleyside Escapes

“I am absolutely elated to receive the Unsung Hero award.  It was an honour to be part of these awards and to celebrate our amazing industry. I am the lucky one for being part of our vibrant and welcoming Devon Team!”

Sereny, The Dartmouth Steam Railway and Riverboat Company

“Winning this award has made us feel that all our hard work and plans for the future have been acknowledged. It really is rewarding and has given the whole team a real boost.”

Clare, Andrewshayes Holiday Park

“This is such amazing news and so unexpected!  Tears of joy are most certainly happening right now.  Thank you, to you all and to everyone else involved in the awards, for such wonderful news and recognition.  We are truly thrilled.We have had some wonderful emails and calls from local people and guests since our Silver Awards and to be selected as one of the businesses to go onto the South West Tourism Excellence Awards is an honour, beyond words.”

Lizzie & Nathan, Nethway Farm Holiday Cottages