The best tourism and hospitality businesses across the county have been recognised at this year’s Visit Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent Tourism Awards.
The black-tie event took place at Statfold Country Park in Tamworth. Around 400 guests attended. The event was sponsored by the University of Staffordshire and hosted by BBC Midlands Today presenter Rebecca Harper.
Key winners
- Large Visitor Attraction of the Year: Alton Towers Resort
- Small Visitor Attraction of the Year: Emma Bridgewater
- Restaurant of the Year: The Plumicorn at The Tawny Hotel
- Casual Dining Award: Thyme Kitchen
The Tawny Hotel won two awards, including Hotel of the Year.
Other winners included:
- Pub of the Year: The Fitzherbert Arms, Swynnerton (second year running)
- International Tourism Award: World of Wedgwood (second year running)
- Experience of the Year: Hoar Cross Hall for its Rural Retreat Spa stay
- New Business of the Year: Hockerhill Adventure Playbarn, South Staffordshire
Food, accommodation and attractions
- Tearoom and Coffee Shop of the Year: Denstone Hall Farm Shop and Café
- Food and Drink Retailer or Farm Shop: Denstone Hall Farm Shop and Café
- Self Catering Accommodation of the Year: Ford Wetley Cottage
- Small Serviced Accommodation: Walnut House at The Duncombe Arms
- Camping, Glamping and Holiday Park: Quarry Walk Park (second year running)
Special awards and recognition
- Unsung Hero: George Lowe of Lowe’s on Carter Street, Uttoxeter
- Business Events Venue of the Year: bet365 Stadium, Stoke City FC
- Accessible and Inclusive Tourism Award: National Memorial Arboretum
- Regenerative Tourism Award: Eagle House, Eccleshall (new for 2026)
People and teams
- Team of the Year: Moddershall Oaks Country Spa Retreat, recognised for recovery after flood damage
- Rising Star Award: Poppy Gascoine, Desire Cocktail Bar, Stoke-on-Trent
A special award for Outstanding Contribution to Tourism was given to Mo Chaudry. This recognises his 30 years of work supporting the visitor economy, including his leadership at Waterworld Leisure Resort and his new investment fund for young entrepreneurs.
What leaders said
Hayley Coles from Staffordshire County Council praised the wide range of winners. She highlighted the importance of tourism businesses in supporting jobs and communities across the county.
Jane Ashworth, Leader of Stoke-on-Trent City Council, said the awards showcased the city’s strong tourism offer and celebrated well-known local businesses.
Martin Tideswell from the University of Staffordshire said the awards highlight innovation, resilience and partnership in the sector, helping raise the area’s profile nationally.
What happens next
Winners from 15 categories will go on to represent Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent at the national VisitEngland Awards for Excellence, taking place in early June.
Full details of all winners can be found on the Visit Staffordshire website.
