DERBYSHIRE SHINES AT THE VISITENGLAND AWARDS FOR EXCELLENCE 2026

Derbyshire’s visitor economy was proudly in the spotlight on 3 June as the VisitEngland Awards for Excellence 2026 took place at Aerospace Bristol, celebrating quality, innovation and outstanding customer service across England’s tourism industry.

Credit: VisitEngland

Following standout success at the 2026 Peak District, Derbyshire & Derby Tourism Awards, Derbyshire’s finalists went on to compete on the national stage – and once again proved that the county can stand shoulder to shoulder with the very best in England.

Among the evening’s highlights, Derbyshire’s tourism businesses and individuals brought home an impressive set of national accolades:

Hoe Grange Holidays, Peak District

Gold winner of the Accessible & Inclusive Tourism Award

The Tickled Trout, Barlow

Silver winner in the Pub of the Year category

Peak Edge Hotel, Chesterfield

Silver winner for Small Hotel of the Year (sponsored by Booking.com)

Viv Smith of the National Stone Centre

Silver winner in the Unsung Hero category

These awards are a fantastic reflection of the passion, dedication and quality found right across Derbyshire’s visitor economy. From accessible holiday experiences and welcoming pubs to outstanding hospitality and the people working tirelessly behind the scenes, this year’s success showcases the breadth of talent across the county.

As the county celebrates success on the national stage, there has never been a better time to discover, or rediscover, the outstanding places, people and experiences that make Derbyshire such a special destination.

Congratulations to all of Derbyshire’s regional winners!

For more information on the awards including the full list of winners, visit: VisitEngland Awards for Excellence 2026 [HC3]