The Bristol Hotel was at capacity last night (30 November) as 64 awards were presented to the best tourism and hospitality businesses from across Bristol Bath and Somerset.

The awards covered everything from accommodation and attractions to food and drink and activities, with an ever-wider range of visitor experiences amongst the winners. There were also awards for an increasing numbers of businesses in the all-important new tourism business, sustainable tourism and accessible tourism categories.

Three special awards were announced, the first being the Outstanding Contribution to Tourism Award which went to the Welcome Team at Bristol Temple Meads.  The Future of Hospitality was new this year and was awarded to Aurora Foxes in Minehead.  The final award of the night – the Winner of Winners award went to the exceptional teams at the Queensberry Hotel and the Olive Tree Restaurant in Bath.

Winners in most categories will now be considered for the South West Tourism Excellence Awards to be presented at Exeter University in March 2024 and possibly invited to represent Bristol Bath and Somerset in the 2024 national VisitEngland Awards.

Ben McGrail, host of the awards said “It was a real honour to be part of such a celebration of the amazing tourism industry in Bristol, Bath and Somerset. We have so much to offer across the region and the night really showed off just how hard people work to make that possible. Congratulations to all the winners and nominees!”

Awards director, Nell Barrington added: “each year these awards get more and more competitive.  They really do showcase the finest experiences visitors to the county can have and provide a truly inspirational bucket list.  It was a privilege to be able to celebrate with such fantastic businesses.  Congratulations to them all.”

For a full list of finalists visit www.somersettourismawards.org.uk.