Tourism trio heads to national awards

Three Lancashire businesses have been named as shortlists for the VisitEngland Awards for Excellence.

Lancashire’s finalists are: La Locanda, Gisburn, Taste Of England Award finalist; Secret Garden Glamping, Skelmersdale, Camping, Glamping and Holiday Park of the Year; Winter Gardens, Blackpool, Business Events Venue of the Year.

They are among 48 finalists, announced following a rigorous judging process by handpicked tourism industry experts, who will now go on to compete in 16 core categories at the national awards.

The VisitEngland Awards for Excellence champion the very best of England’s tourism industry celebrating quality, innovation, best practice and exceptional customer service.

All finalists are invited to attend the national awards ceremony, this year being held at Rum Warehouse at The Titanic Hotel Liverpool on 5 June, where Gold, Silver and Bronze winners will be announced at the black tie event.

Tourism is one of England’s largest and most valuable industries, supporting hundreds of thousands of small-to-medium sized businesses, employing 2.6 million people and, in 2022, generating £66bn for the economy in domestic visitor spending.

Vikki Harris, marketing and partnerships director of Marketing Lancashire, which organises the annual Lancashire Tourism Awards, said: "What a wonderful affirmation of the world class tourism offer in Lancashire. La Locanda, Secret Garden Glamping and Blackpool Winter Gardens, now go on to represent the county in the most prestigious awards for the tourism industry in England. These hard working, brilliant businesses are at the top of their game and demonstrate the quality, invention and warm welcome that we’re renowned for in Lancashire.

“Each of the finalists will take home either Gold, Silver or Bronze at this year’s VisitEngland Awards for Excellence and we couldn’t be prouder or happier for them.”

Andrew Stokes, VisitEngland Director, said: “I am always impressed by the tourism businesses who make it onto our list of finalists with their innovative approaches to ensuring people have the most amazing experiences whilst delivering outstanding customer service across England.  I congratulate all the finalists and wish them the very best of luck.”