The local finalists have been announced for this year’s Dorset Tourism Awards.

The awards, which celebrate Dorset's best tourist attractions, will be presented in the Weymouth Pavilion on Thursday, February 1, 2024.

The 62 finalists have been announced for this year’s Dorset Tourism Awards following five months of judging - and some west Dorset businesses are on the list.

This includes the Highlands End Holiday Park which has been revealed this week as the winner of 'Best Holiday Park' at Campsites.co.uk's Camping and Glamping Award.

The awards will be separated into Gold, Silver or Bronze awards. A further three special awards will also be announced and eight will be rewarded with Commended status.

A spokesperson for the Visit Dorset tourism team said: “The team would like to wish the very best of luck to all the finalists in this year’s Dorset Tourism Awards. It’s great to recognise their amazing work and the fantastic experiences that they provide for all visitors to Dorset.”

The annual competition is now in its 11th year, with changes every year to categories and criteria.

This year’s awards took ever greater account of entrants’ commitment to accessibility and inclusion, including mental health, as well as the environment and community.

Awards organiser Robin Barker of Services for Tourism commented: “I well remember the audience reaction at the very first Dorset Awards – delight that Dorset at last had an awards scheme of their own – and after the tough few years the industry has been through I fully expect more delight in February. Many congratulations to everyone.”

The awards organisers were also pleased to retain their own ‘Outstanding’ accreditation in the Awards TrustMark scheme.

Successful businesses in most categories fast-tracked into the South West Tourism Excellence Awards in March 2024 and possibly be invited to represent Dorset in the 2024 national VisitEngland Awards.

Award categories cover everything from dog-friendly, new tourism business, and accessible and inclusive tourism to restaurants, glamping, hotels and pubs. A Winner of Winners title, an Unsung Hero award and a special Future of Hospitality award will also be presented on the night.

The local finalists include: 

Camping & Caravanning Park of the Year:

  • Coppet Hill Camping and Glamping, near Whitchurch Canonicorum

Casual Dining Award sponsored:

  • Poco Pizza, Lyme Regis

Ethical, Responsible & Sustainable Tourism Award:

  • Highlands End Holiday Park, Eype

Holiday Park of the Year:

  • Highlands End Holiday Park, Eype

Pub of the Year:

  • The Acorn Inn, Evershot

Small Hotel of the Year:

  • Summer Lodge Country House Hotel, Evershot 

​New Tourism Business Award:

  • Rudge Farm Cottages, near Chilcombe

Self Catering Accommodation of the Year:

  • Rudge Farm Cottages, near Chilcombe