Nottinghamshire Tourism Awards 2026: Entries Opening Soon!

Following a dazzling celebration of tourism excellence earlier this year, preparations are now underway for the return of the Nottinghamshire Tourism Awards 2026 – and we’re excited to announce that entries will officially open early June 2025.

The annual awards programme is a flagship celebration of the very best in Nottinghamshire’s vibrant visitor economy – from iconic attractions and hidden gems to the unsung heroes behind our thriving tourism and hospitality sector. Whether you’re a long-established business or an up-and-coming experience, this is your opportunity to gain the recognition you deserve.

Entries will close at the end of July, giving businesses a generous two-month window to prepare and submit their strongest applications. We’re opening the awards earlier than ever before to allow businesses the time they need to craft thoughtful, high-quality submissions that truly reflect their excellence.

What’s New for 2026?

The 2026 awards introduce an exciting new category – Festival & Event of the Year – which will be decided by public vote, putting local pride and community engagement at the heart of the celebrations.

As with last year, the competition is open to both Visit Nottinghamshire members and non-members. Non-members are welcome to take part for a small entry fee. This inclusive approach ensures that all eligible businesses across the county have the opportunity to shine.

Why Enter?

Winners of core categories will not only receive prestigious local recognition but also have the chance to progress to the national VisitEngland Awards for Excellence – the highest accolade in English tourism.

Entries will be judged through a rigorous and impartial process, including shortlisting, mystery shopping, and in-depth evaluation by a panel of experts. This ensures that only the very best businesses – those demonstrating innovation, quality, and genuine visitor appeal – are recognised.

With categories that champion everything from accessibility and sustainability to food & drink, accommodation, and outstanding individuals, these awards reflect the depth and diversity of Nottinghamshire’s tourism offer.

2026 Categories

National Awards:

  • Accessible & Inclusive Tourism
  • B&B and Guest House of the Year
  • Business Events Venue of the Year
  • Camping, Glamping and Holiday Park of the Year
  • Experience of the Year
  • Hotel of the Year
  • New Tourism Business of the Year
  • Pub of the Year
  • Regenerative Tourism Award (formerly Ethical, Responsible and Sustainable Tourism Award)
  • Self-Catering Accommodation of the Year
  • Taste of England Award
  • Unsung Hero Award
  • Visitor Attraction of the Year

Local Awards:

  • Festival & Event of the Year (Public Vote)
  • Services to Tourism
  • Team of the Year

A Night to Remember

The 2026 winners will be celebrated at a prestigious awards ceremony, building on the momentum of this year’s East Midlands joint event at the East Midlands Conference Centre. The evening will once again bring together industry leaders, changemakers, and champions of the visitor economy for a spectacular celebration of achievement and ambition.

Stay tuned for the official launch and entry details – coming in early June!

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