Tourism businesses from across the East Midlands have been recognised as among the very best in the country at the VisitEngland Awards for Excellence 2026.
The awards – held at Aerospace Bristol yesterday and attended by hundreds of guests – recognise exceptional businesses and individuals from across England’s tourism sector, celebrating those who go the extra mile to deliver unforgettable visitor experiences and support the growth of the visitor economy.
Gold, silver and bronze awards were presented across 17 categories, with winners drawn from 21 local awards.
Tourism minister Stephanie Peacock said: “I am delighted to see so many businesses across England being recognised for their outstanding work, helping to make people’s stays as enjoyable and memorable as possible.
“From hotels and pubs to glamping, museums and experiences, these awards are a real testament to those striving to ensure our tourism industry remains outstanding. Our upcoming Visitor Economy Growth Strategy will provide a clear, long-term plan to unlock investment, back businesses and showcase more of our great destinations to the world.”
The success of East Midlands businesses at this year’s awards is fantastic news for the region and highlights the quality, creativity and passion that can be found across our tourism and hospitality sector.
From award-winning attractions and accommodation providers to food and drink businesses and visitor experiences, the East Midlands continues to offer something special for visitors, helping to attract people from across the UK and around the world.
National recognition through the VisitEngland Awards, which have been running for 35 years, helps put the spotlight on the East Midlands, raising awareness of everything the region has to offer and encouraging more people to visit, stay longer and explore more of our towns, cities and countryside.
A thriving visitor economy plays an important role in supporting local jobs, businesses and communities. Every visitor who comes to the East Midlands helps support the restaurants, cafés, shops, attractions, hotels and tourism businesses that make our places vibrant and welcoming.
The achievements of this year’s winners and finalists showcase the strength of the region’s tourism offer and demonstrate how businesses across the East Midlands are helping to drive economic growth while delivering exceptional experiences for visitors.
Congratulations to all those who took part and were recognised at the VisitEngland Awards for Excellence 2026. Their success is not only a proud moment for the businesses themselves, but for the wider region, helping to showcase the East Midlands as a destination that continues to grow in popularity and reputation.
The awards were organised through collaboration between regional tourism partners including Visit Nottinghamshire, Visit Peak District & Derbyshire.
Lee Henderson, Nottingham Playhouse chief operating officer, said: “We’re delighted to receive silver in the Accessible and Inclusive Tourism Award from VisitEngland. Recognition for a theatre at the awards highlights the vital role arts and culture play in attracting visitors to our cities.
“At Nottingham Playhouse, our mission is to create a place where everyone feels they belong. We reflect the diversity of our communities through the stories we tell and the experiences we offer. This includes accessible programming, physical adaptations to our building, Pay What You Can performances, 60 participation activities for all ages and abilities, a 1,000-member Artist Development programme, and our Theatre of Sanctuary work supporting refugees and people seeking asylum.
“Accessibility and inclusion are embedded from the outset of every project, shaped in consultation with people with lived experience. By centring accessibility and inclusion, we create richer experiences for all and help more people feel a genuine sense of belonging.”
Click here for the full list of VisitEngland Awards for Excellence 2026 winners.
Main image: VisitBritain/Kevin Moran Photography
Published on: 4 June 2026
Categories: News, Visitor Economy