The Dorset Tourism Awards have recorded one of their strongest years yet, with 131 completed entries submitted for 2026 – an increase of more than 22% on last year.
The figure is particularly significant as the awards attracted just 60 entries when they first launched in 2013, meaning participation has more than doubled over the past 13 years.
Businesses from across Dorset’s accommodation, hospitality, attraction, experience and events sectors have entered, highlighting the breadth and quality of the county’s visitor economy.
Nell Barrington, Awards Director, said, “It is wonderful to see so many Dorset businesses recognising the value of entering. Whether they are seeking feedback, celebrating their teams or raising their profile, the awards provide an opportunity to highlight the very best of Dorset tourism. The increase in entries demonstrates the ambition and quality that exists throughout the county.”
Jay Thornton, Commercial & Engineering Director at Tomorrows Travel Group, said, “Having proudly supported the Dorset Tourism Awards for the past two years, we’re delighted to take on the role of headline sponsor and further strengthen our commitment to an industry that sits at the heart of everything we do at Tomorrows Travel Group. Tourism isn’t simply a sector we work alongside, it is the foundation of our business. Through both Tomorrows Travel and Festival Buses, we support visitors travelling to destinations, attractions and major events across Dorset and beyond, helping connect people with experiences that showcase the very best this county has to offer. This reflects our long-term commitment to supporting visitor economies and the businesses that make them thrive. We see first-hand the passion, innovation and resilience that drives tourism businesses, and we understand the important role they play in supporting local communities, creating employment and contributing to regional growth. The Dorset Tourism Awards provide a fantastic platform to recognise and celebrate that excellence.”
The finalists will be announced later this year before winners are celebrated at the Marsham Court Hotel, Bournemouth, on 22 October.
