Discover Northamptonshire has today launched the Northamptonshire Tourism Awards 2025 - inviting businesses from across the county to showcase their achievements and innovation.

The launch of the awards follows on from the major success and economic boost to the visitor economy for Northamptonshire as a result of hosting the Women’s Rugby World Cup.

With 13 award categories ranging from ‘large hotel of the year’ to ‘small visitor attraction’ and ‘pub of the year’, there’s plenty of opportunities for tourism and hospitality businesses to get involved. The awards focus on celebrating businesses and attractions that pull in visitors far and wide, recognising the hard work by all to maximise visitor experience.

Applications are now open and must be submitted by 14 November and finalists will be revealed early in the New Year.

“We’re proud to champion Northamptonshire’s vibrant tourism and hospitality sector, which plays a vital role in shaping the county’s identity and economy. These awards not only celebrate business excellence but also recognise the wider social impact these organisations have - bringing communities together, enhancing wellbeing, and fostering local pride.

We’re also incredibly grateful to the partners and sponsors who will help make these awards possible and ensure the county’s visitor economy continues to shine.”
Richard Clinton, Chair of Discover Northamptonshire LVEP

“Northamptonshire is rich with cultural and natural treasures and is full of exceptional tourism businesses from village pubs through to larger attractions.

It’s only right that we shine a light on these businesses and the Northamptonshire Tourism Awards will do just that with the winners in each category being automatically qualifying for the prestigious VisitEngland Awards for Excellence.

“I would encourage all to take a look at the information online and apply - I am so looking forward to hearing more about the fantastic businesses we have in the local area.” 
Kerry Purnell, North Northamptonshire Council’s assistant director for communities and leisure

“Northamptonshire has so much to celebrate, and showcasing our local businesses on a national stage is exactly the kind of impact the LVEP was created to deliver.

We are fully committed to maximising the potential of our visitor economy and enhancing the experience for everyone who comes here - because we know Northamptonshire has what it takes to be recognised as a world-class destination.

“Building on the incredible spotlight the Women’s Rugby World Cup has shone on our area, these new awards are a fantastic opportunity to highlight the businesses and attractions that make our county stand out. I encourage every business and organisation to get involved and help us celebrate the innovation, passion and dedication that continue to put Northamptonshire firmly on the map.”
Cllr James Petter, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Local Economy, Culture and Leisure at West Northamptonshire Council

Once applications close, the first round of judging will commence and shortlisted businesses will then be visited by mystery shoppers at the end of November through to mid-December. Finalists will be announced in early January with an awards event being organised in March 2026, to tie in with English Tourism Week. More details to be announced soon. 

Winners in each of the 13 categories will automatically qualify for the prestigious VisitEngland Awards for Excellence, the national benchmark for tourism success.  

These awards shine a spotlight on the very best of England’s tourism industry - recognising outstanding achievements in quality, innovation, and customer service. Winning one of these coveted awards not only confirms a business as a national leader, but also opens doors to valuable media coverage, enhanced business development, and exclusive networking opportunities.

Full details on categories, entry criteria, deadlines and how to apply, click here.

Stay updated by following Discover Northamptonshire on LinkedIn and join the conversation using #DNTA26.