Waterside is thrilled to shine a spotlight on Dorset’s latest triumphs: Nothe Fort in Weymouth taking gold as Visit England’s Best Small Visitor Attraction, and The Acorn Inn in Evershot earning silver in the Best Pub category and The Tank Museum in Bovington once again winning gold for Large Visitor Attraction of the Year at the Dorset Tourism Awards. These aren’t just awards, they represent pride, passion and excellence in preserving Dorset’s unique character.
Nothe Fort, Weymouth
The local Dorset tourist attraction, the Nothe Fort, Weymouth, has been awarded the Best Small Visitor Attraction in England by Visit England in their Awards for Excellence. This Victorian coastal defence fort first claimed the prestigious title for the South West region in March, and after a rigorous round of national judging, emerged victorious on Thursday 6th June 2024.
The win has brought immense joy and pride to the team at the Nothe Fort with Chairman, James Farquharson expressing the team’s elation.
“The whole team were ecstatic. This award fills our team, our visitors, and our community of Weymouth and Dorset with pride.”
Robin Barker from South West Awards organisers, Services for Tourism, praised the achievements of the Nothe Fort.
“It was a delight to share in the success of an outstanding group of tourism businesses. Their commitment to excellence, sustainability, accessibility, and customer service is a testament to their whole teams, whether managers, front-of-house staff, cleaners, or volunteers.”
This accolade comes at a time when the Nothe Fort is experiencing a surge in visitors, setting records in the first three months of the year and on track to surpass last year’s visitor totals. Whilst staying at Waterside, you could join their guest list and enjoy all the history and activities it has to offer!
The Acorn Inn, Evershot
In addition to the Nothe Fort’s triumph, Dorset also celebrated another victory with The Acorn Inn in Evershot winning Silver in the pub category. Run by Richard and Natalie Legg, the Acorn Inn has achieved multiple accolades. Richard expressed his delight at the award.
"We are absolutely delighted to win Silver for Best Pub in England. We are so happy and proud of the incredible Acorn team for all the hard work they put in every day. Plus a big thank you to all our guests for their support.”
Located in North Dorset, less than a 40 minute drive away from the Weymouth Waterside parks, this cosy pub makes the perfect day trip for lunch and an explore of a quaint, British village with all the family.
The Tank Museum, Bovington
Adding to the region’s portfolio of top class businesses, The Tank Museum in Bovington also achieved multiple awards this year, cementing its status as an awesome day out! It has been awarded the Silver award for business events venue of the year and the Museum’s flagship fundraising event TANKFEST as well as a bronze award for being an Accessible and Inclusive Tourism Venue. These honours highlight the museum’s dedication to providing exceptional experiences for all visitors, whether they’re attending the thrilling TANKFEST, organising business events, or exploring the museum’s extensive collection of military vehicles.
For those looking to immerse themselves in Dorset’s award-winning attractions, Waterside is the perfect place to stay in Weymouth. Located just a short drive away from the Nothe Fort and The Tank Museum, Bowleaze Cove Holiday Park & Spa, Chesil Beach Holiday Park and Osmington Mills Lodge Park all offer convenient access to these historic sites and captivating events. Visitors can also easily venture to the Acorn Inn and other local gems, making it an ideal base for exploring the best of what Dorset has to offer. With comfortable accommodations and scenic surroundings, Waterside offers the perfect base for your next adventure!
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