East Staffordshire’s thriving tourism and hospitality sector is taking centre stage this year, with another record number of local businesses shortlisted across multiple categories in the prestigious Staffordshire & Stoke-on-Trent Tourism and Good Food Awards 2026.
The shortlist highlights the outstanding quality, innovation, and resilience within East Staffordshire’s visitor economy — spanning luxury accommodation, exceptional dining, rural experiences, and high-performing event venues.
Shortlisted businesses from East Staffordshire include:
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Business Venue of the Year: Hilton at St George’s Park; Uttoxeter Racecourse
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Experience of the Year: Hoar Cross Hall Spa Hotel
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Large Hotel of the Year: Hoar Cross Hall Spa Hotel
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Food & Drink Retailer / Farm Shop of the Year: Denstone Hall Farm Shop
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Restaurant of the Year: Lowes on Carter Street, Uttoxeter
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Tearoom & Coffee Shop of the Year: Denstone Hall Farm Shop; Poms (Barton Marina)
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Small Serviced Accommodation: Walnut House at The Duncombe Arms, Mayfield
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Unsung Hero: Lowes on Carter Street, Uttoxeter
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Rising Star: Lowes on Carter Street
This impressive showing demonstrates East Staffordshire’s growing reputation as a first-class destination for leisure, food, and hospitality. From independent retailers and family-run eateries to national conference venues and luxury spa experiences, the borough continues to deliver memorable experiences for visitors near and far.
The winners will be announced at a glamorous Black Tie Gala at Stafford Country Park & Fairground Museum on Thursday 19th March 2026, where shortlisted companies will gather to celebrate excellence across the region.
Cllr Paul Walker, Cabinet Member (Tourism, Cultural Development and Regeneration East Staffordshire, said:
“It’s fantastic to see so many East Staffordshire businesses recognised for their talent, creativity, and commitment to delivering exceptional visitor experiences. These shortlists reflect the strength and diversity of our visitor economy, and the passion that our businesses bring to the sector every single day. We’re incredibly proud of them all and wish them the very best of luck at the awards gala.”
Tourism is a vital part of East Staffordshire’s local economy, contributing millions in visitor spend and supporting jobs across the food, cultural, retail, leisure, and accommodation sectors. With continued investment in attractions, sustainable travel, events, and local produce, the borough is successfully building on its visitor appeal year after year.
As the region prepares for awards night, East Staffordshire is celebrating not just its finalists, but the collective efforts of the businesses, venue teams, chefs, producers, and hospitality staff driving the sector forward.