Lighthouse, Poole’s centre for the arts and entertainment, has struck gold in the South West Tourism Excellence Awards.
It was last night named Business Events Venue of the Year at the finals held in Exeter.
Bournemouth’s Marsham Court Hotel won bronze in the same category.
Other BCP successes included gold for Bournemouth’s Arts by the Sea Festival which was named Tourism Event/Festival of the Year.
Bournemouth Beach Lodges was awarded silver in the self catering accomodation category and there was a bronze award in the Large Hotel section for Bournemouth’s Holiday Inn.
A total of 89 awards were presented at the annual event.
It was the grand finale of 12 months of entry, judging and feedback.
More than 300 winners, supporters and tourism leaders celebrated in the Great Hall of the University of Exeter.
Many have also been nominated to represent the region in the national VisitEngland awards, which concludes in Liverpool in June.
All forms of hospitality business were among the winners, with cafes, pubs, karting centres schools and distilleries all celebrating alongside attractions, camping and glamping sites, holiday parks, B&Bs, cottages and hotels.
The event also saw a prize draw fundraise in support of Hospitality Action, the charity that supports those in the industry who are facing times.
Helen Wylde-Archibald, CEO of main awards sponsor Wildanet, said “With the standard of entries being so high this year, it demonstrates the incredible work that businesses throughout the South West are doing to stand-out and help to position our region as one that is truly world-class.
“Many congratulations to all the winners from the evening, and we look forward to seeing you again at the next awards.”
Robin Barker, Director of Services for Tourism Ltd, which manages the awards, said: “The impact of these awards on the region’s top tourism businesses never ceases to amaze me.
“It means so much to them.”
Co-Director Nell Barrington added: “Congratulations to all the brilliant tourism and hospitality businesses who celebrated in such style last night.
“I would encourage everyone who reads this to click here to find out where the best award-winning places are to visit this year.”
The 2024/25 tourism awards will launch in April with a programme of events throughout the autumn and winter.