Coast and Country Parks Named Tourism Superstar Finalists…
3-Minute Read | by Amy at Coast And Country Parks.
We’re incredibly proud to share that Coast & Country Parks’ Holiday Connoisseurs have been shortlisted as finalists in the VisitEngland Tourism Superstar Awards 2026 this year, a national recognition celebrating the people who go above and beyond to create unforgettable visitor experiences.
Now in its 14th year, the Tourism Superstar competition shines a spotlight on individuals and teams across England who represent the very best of the tourism industry. From volunteers and guides to chefs, park teams and event organisers, the awards celebrate passion, dedication and a genuine love for place.
Celebrating the people behind the experience…
The 2026 finalists were selected from dozens of nominations submitted by Local Visitor Economy Partnerships (LVEPs), destinations, employers and colleagues across the country. Together, they reflect the incredible diversity of roles that make England’s tourism offer so special.
Being recognised as a finalist is a real honour for our team, whose focus is always on creating relaxed, memorable stays across our parks; including Notter Bridge, nestled in the Tamar Valley. From thoughtful local recommendations to the little details that make guests feel at home, our Holiday Connoisseurs are at the heart of everything we do.
What happens next?
The finalists will now go forward to a public vote, hosted on VisitEngland’s website from now in February to March 2026. Short films featuring each finalist will be released, showcasing their roles and the destinations they help bring to life. Voting will remain open until the end of English Tourism Week (13–22 March 2026).
The finalist with the highest number of public votes will be crowned Tourism Superstar 2026, with the award presented at the VisitEngland Awards for Excellence later in the summer.
What it means to us…
This recognition comes at a particularly exciting moment for Coast & Country Parks, following the recent launch of our refreshed brand and new website. While our look has evolved, our purpose remains the same; to create relaxed, meaningful escapes rooted in nature, without the fuss.
Being shortlisted as Tourism Superstar finalists feels like a powerful affirmation of that direction, recognising the people behind the scenes who bring our parks to life and ensure every guest experience feels personal, thoughtful and genuinely welcoming.
VisitEngland on the awards…
Andrew Stokes, Director at VisitEngland, said:
“Our Tourism Superstar competition truly showcases the diversity of roles in our wonderful industry with all those involved demonstrating their passion for their places of work and destinations. It is their commitment to making visitors leave with magical memories that we are celebrating, and I encourage the public to show their support by voting for their favourite superstar.”
Tourism Superstar 2026 finalists..
The shortlisted finalists for 2026 are:
- Jimmy Nicol, Volunteer Guide – Raby Castle, County Durham
- Hull & East Yorkshire Volunteers (HEY! Volunteers) – East Riding of Yorkshire
- Dan Monk, Director of Astrophotography – Kielder Observatory, Northumberland
- Maurizio Bocchi, Chef – La Locanda, Lancashire
- Coast & Country Parks Holiday Connoisseurs – Somerset, Devon & Cornwall
- Leicester’s Festivals and Events Team – Leicestershire
- Mick Hurst – Battle of Evesham Historical Events, Worcestershire
- Sheila Hannon – Show of Strength Theatre Walks, Bristol
- Badger Hide Guides Volunteers – RSPB Wild Haweswater, Cumbria
- Cheryl Cade – Tour Guide, Norwich & Norfolk
Start VOTING!
We’re honoured to be recognised alongside so many inspiring people and teams who share a commitment to exceptional tourism experiences.
Public voting is now open!
For more information about the Tourism Superstar Awards, visit VisitBritain.org.