Visit Staffordshire is delighted to announce that applications are now open for the prestigious Staffordshire & Stoke‑on‑Trent Tourism Awards 2026, organised by the Staffordshire & Stoke‑on‑Trent Local Visitor Economy Partnership (LVEP) in partnership with VisitEngland.
By entering the Awards, we’re not only aiming for the top local accolade, but also setting our sights on VisitEngland’s national stage. Joining this competition signals that we are among the best tourism and hospitality businesses in the Midlands—and ready to shine even brighter.
Why entering matters:
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Free to enter & open to eligible businesses throughout Staffordshire and Stoke‑on‑Trent
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20 award categories, from accommodation and attractions to restaurants, pubs, and cross‑sector honours like Accessible & Inclusive Tourism, Regenerative Tourism, and Unsung Hero
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Gold winners in the national categories progress directly to the VisitEngland Awards for Excellence 2026—providing a national platform and wider recognition
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Recognition and reputation: Stand out in the county’s £2.3 billion tourism economy.
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Industry‑led feedback: Independent judges provide insights to help refine services and operations.
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Team pride and morale boost: Celebrate staff dedication and hard work.
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Free promotional exposure: All finalists and winners receive coverage through regional media channels and VisitStaffordshire platforms.
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Route to national acclaim: Audiences across England and beyond can discover our offerings via the VisitEngland Awards. Previous finalists from Staffordshire—such as World of Wedgwood and Keele University Events & Conferencing—picked up national titles
The 2026 Awards introduces the Regenerative Tourism Award, a brand‑new category for 2026 that honours businesses taking positive environmental, social and heritage action in their tourism and hospitality practice
To ensure you have all the relevant information please attend one of the FREE online applicant workshops on 2 or 17 July 2025, to ensure our award application is compelling and well‑structured.
Key Dates:
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Entry period: 16 June to 1 September 2025
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Judging visits: 1 September – 31 December 2025
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Gala Dinner & Awards Ceremony: March 2026 (venue TBC)
Ready to enter or eager to find out more?
Visit the Visit Staffordshire awards portal now to explore categories, download sample forms, and register for free workshops — and learn how your business can shine regionally and nationally:
Head to www.visitstaffordshire.com/awards to get started!
