Finalists have been announced for the 14th year of the Devon Tourism Awards which will be presented in the Riviera International Centre, Torquay on 16th November.
The awards have seen an increase to 142 entries this year and after three months of judging, 70 finalists have been announced. All will be in suspense until the Awards Ceremony when they will learn whether they have won Gold, Silver or Bronze awards. A further 3 awards will be announced on the night and 11 will receive Commended status.
The competition is now in its 14th year and has continued to develop and modernise to reflect the ongoing innovation across tourism. This year has seen a greater-than-ever focus on accessible and inclusive tourism as well as sustainability, customer service and digital excellence.
Winners will be announced in the Riviera International Centre on 16th November, with successful businesses in many categories fast-tracked into the South West Tourism Excellence Awards in March 2024 and possibly nominated to represent Devon in the national VisitEngland Awards.
Lawrence Palk, Director of B2B Sales from headline sponsors, Wildanet, says: “Wildanet are delighted to be supporting The Devon Tourism Awards this year. Devon has so much to offer as a tourism destination in the UK, if not the World; and the Devon Tourism Awards are a fantastic stage on which to showcase and celebrate those incredible businesses that are flying the flag for the region. Many congratulations to all the finalists, and on behalf of everyone here at Wildanet, we wish you all the very best of luck and look forward to a wonderful night of celebration on 16th November.”
Awards organiser, Robin Barker of Services for Tourism, commented: “Each year I am astounded that tourism businesses can continue to innovate and reinvent themselves, and this year is no exception, with outstanding examples of excellence in all sectors. Huge congratulations to everyone, and many thanks to all our sponsors and partners for making the awards possible.”
The 23 award categories cover everything from glamping, hotels and attractions to dog-friendly, experiences, cafés and unsung heroes. A Winner of Winners title and special Outstanding Contribution to Tourism award will also be presented on the night.
There are several finalists from the East Devon region, including:
Seaton Tramway, Seaton (Accessible and Inclusive Tourism; Experience of the Year; Large Visitor Attraction of the Year; Tourism Event/Festival of the Year)
The Donkey Sanctuary, Sidmouth (Large Visitor Attraction of the Year)
The Kitchen at the Donkey Sanctuary, Sidmouth (Café/Tearoom of the Year)
Ladram Bay Holiday Park, Budleigh Salterton (Holiday Park of the Year)
The Pig at Combe, Honiton (Small Hotel of the Year)
For more information, visit www.devonttourismawards.org.uk