Visit East of England Celebrates Excellence in Tourism: Suffolk & Norfolk Tourism Awards 2025 Winners Announced

A PRESTIGIOUS evening ceremony at Norwich’s newly renovated Castle has seen 11 businesses and individuals crowned with top accolades in this year’s Suffolk & Norfolk Tourism Awards.

Celebrating the very best tourism and hospitality attractions, venues and experiences from across Norfolk and Suffolk, the awards are the first major celebration since it was announced that Visit East of England (VEE, the official tourism body for Suffolk and Norfolk and organisers of the awards) has been accredited as a Local Visitor Economy Partnership (LVEP) by national tourism body VisitEngland.

Winners and one runner up from all but two categories, then automatically go forward to compete on a national level in June, in the VisitEngland Awards for Excellence.

The Suffolk & Norfolk ceremony, hosted by TV presenter David Whiteley, was opened with an address by Executive Director of Visit East of England, Pete Waters.

He spoke of the exceptional standard of candidates for this year’s awards, and what a tough task it had been for the judges across each category.

Reflecting on the opportunity that LVEP status offers Suffolk and Norfolk, he said that while it was clear that these are challenging times for the whole sector, he felt positive and heartened by the incredible tenacity and entrepreneurialism that continues to be shown within the tourism industry.

The full list of winners (with comments from judges) is as follows:

B&B and Guest House of the Year Winner: Belle Vue Guest House & Cottage Sponsor: Out of Office Events

JUDGES SAID: The care and attention to detail throughout the property are evident in every corner, making it impossible to find anything to criticise.

Camping, Glamping and Holiday Park of the Year Winner: Hippersons Boatyard Sponsor: Ronaldo Ices

JUDGES SAID: The atmosphere is warm and welcoming, with a team that goes above and beyond to ensure guests feel at home.

Ethical, Responsible and Sustainable Tourism Award Winner: Wild With Nature Sponsor: Swiss Camplings

JUDGES SAID: Perfect for couples or solo travellers, this is eco glamping at its best, where all elements of comfort and convenience have been carefully considered and where sustainability is embedded into everything they do.

Experience of the Year Winner: Jimmy's Farm & Wildlife Park Sponsor: Ginger Pickle

JUDGES SAID: The experience was immersive, well-structured, and undeniably memorable.

Hotel of the Year Winner: Titchwell Manor Sponsor: Ensors

JUDGES SAID: All elements work in harmony to make it an outstanding place to stay, a place that guests want to return to and a hotel that introduces visitors to the unique charm of the North Norfolk coast.

New Tourism Business of the Year Winner: The Miller's Shed Sponsor: Lovewell Blake LLP

JUDGES SAID: With glowing five-star reviews, a seamless booking process, and a dedication to supporting the local community, The Miller’s Shed exemplifies excellence in new tourism.

Pub of the Year Winner: The Pigs (Edgefield)

JUDGES SAID: The Pigs has a great reputation and lives up to this with the fantastic venue and team of staff.

Self-Catering Accommodation of the Year Winner: North Cottage Cromer Sponsor: Hoseasons

JUDGES SAID: The house is stunning and the accommodation spacious, inviting and beautifully maintained. The accommodation works incredibly well for large groups with excellent shared spaces.

Taste of England Award Winner: Yalm Foodhall Sponsor: Holiday Matters 2 Us

JUDGES SAID: A standout dining destination in Norwich, offering an exceptional food experience through its curated selection of independent kitchens.

Visitor Attraction of the Year Winner: Holkham Sponsor: Howes Percival LLP

JUDGES SAID: A world-class visitor attraction that seamlessly blends history, nature, and modern amenities.

Unsung Hero Award Winner: Fran Hartshorne (at The White Horse, Brancaster) Sponsor: Greater Anglia

JUDGES SAID: Fran’s contributions extend beyond her kitchen. Her focus on sustainability, local engagement, and mentorship significantly impacts her team, her diners, and the broader culinary community. Her quiet yet impactful leadership style makes her an inspiring role model.

Commenting on the significance of these awards, Pete Waters said:

"The Suffolk & Norfolk Tourism Awards celebrate the passion and innovation driving our region's tourism industry forward.

Each winner exemplifies excellence in their respective categories, offering visitors unforgettable experiences and exceptional hospitality."

Sponsors involved in this year’s event included companies such as Ensors, Lovewell Blake, Larking Gowen, Swiss Camplings, Greater Anglia, Howes Percival, Hoseasons and Ginger Pickle.

PHOTOGRAPHY

All labelled photography can be accessed here https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1og32KzPtWVa38l-PzV7kFPX7oxlMPkOW

This depository will be updated post event with further images.

Please credit Visit East of England.

For specific images or details feel free to contact the team.