Top tourism awards for brilliant destinations, businesses and experiences are set to be dished out next week.
November 14 sees the return of the much-anticipated Swansea Bay Tourism Awards, which recognise and reward excellence in the sector.
Tourism Swansea Bay, supported by Swansea Council, Neath Port Talbot Council and Welsh Government, will run this year’s awards.
Roy Church, Director of Tourism Swansea Bay said:
“We are delighted with the number of entries this year, which have now all been independently verified and scored. The finalists have been invited to a formal presentation on 14 Nov in the Guildhall, where the winners will be announced. The winners will be in with a chance to advance to the Visit Wales National Tourism Awards for Wales in Spring 2025, representing the very best of Swansea Bay on a national stage.”
Tourism and hospitality businesses had 12 categories to enter this year, and after independent scoring the following businesses have been shortlisted as finalists:
Accessible and Inclusive Tourism Award:
· Calon Lan Centre
· Penderyn Swansea Copperworks Distillery
Best Activity, Experience or Tour:
· Dylan Thomas Birthplace
· Morgans Hotel
· Savage Adventures
Best Attraction:
· Glynn Vivian Art Gallery
· Mumbles Pier
· Plantasia Tropical Zoo
Best B&B, Inn and Guesthouse:
· King Arthur Hotel
· The Georgian Swansea
· Tides Reach Guest House
Best Caravan, Camping and Glamping:
· Greenways of Gower Premier Leisure Park
· Llanrhidian Holiday Park
· Three Cliffs Bay Holiday Park
Best Dog-Friendly Business:
· Clyne Farm Centre
· Gower Fresh Christmas Trees
· Three Cliffs Bay Holiday Park
Best Event:
· Croeso
· In It Together Festival
· Wales Airshow
Best Hotel:
· Delta Hotels by Marriott Swansea
· Morgans Hotel
Best Place to Eat:
· Beach House Restaurant
· Desi Swaag
· King Arthur Hotel
· Nomad Bar and Kitchen
Best Self-Catering
· Clyne Farm Centre
· King Arthur Hotel
· Plas Cilybebyll Manor
Bro a Byd Category (Going the Extra Mile on Environmental Sustainability)
· Delta Hotels by Marriott Swansea
· Parkmill Cottages
· RSPCA
Rising Star Award
· Michaela Sargent – Swansea Arena
· Megan Rust – Beach House Restaurant
· William Evans – Will’s Petting Farm
Councillor Robert Francis-Davies, Cabinet Member for Investment, Regeneration, Events and Tourism at Swansea Council said:
“We are thrilled to host the 2024 Swansea Bay Tourism Awards at the Guildhall next month. These awards celebrate the local businesses that make such a significant difference to our economy and community. The presentation ceremony will offer a great platform for celebration and networking with our local operators.
“Being shortlisted in two categories is truly an honour for us, especially alongside so many other worthy businesses. It’s a testament to the strength of our region’s tourism industry, and we are proud to be part of such an exceptional group.”
Councillor Cen Phillips, Cabinet Member for Nature, Tourism and Wellbeing at Neath Port Talbot Council added:
“The Swansea Bay Tourism Awards are an excellent opportunity to continuously raise industry standards and enhance the visitor experience. We would like to thank all the operators who took part in this year’s awards. Their commitment showcases the vital role tourism plays in our communities, and we’re proud to see such dedication driving the industry forward.”
The Cabinet Secretary for the Economy with responsibility for Tourism, Rebecca Evans, said:
“We’re proud to support the Swansea Bay Tourism Awards as they provide an opportunity to recognise and celebrate excellence in an industry that is crucial to the Welsh economy.
“Congratulations to all who have been nominated for an award. Swansea Bay has so much to offer visitors – and the positive, high-quality experiences you provide for your guests contribute immensely to our attractiveness as a destination.”
