We are absolutely buzzing to share some fantastic news with you all! The official shortlist for the Destination Management Board (DMB) Tourism Awards 2026 has just been revealed, and Bournemouth’s brilliant hospitality sector is truly taking centre stage.

More than 120 guests gathered on Thursday, 17th September, to celebrate the incredible achievements of our local visitor economy. Hosted by Andy Brennan, with speeches from DMB Chair Andy Lennox and More Bus General Manager Richard Wade, the evening was a wonderful reminder of the passion and dedication that makes our beautiful coastal town such a world-class destination.

Loving Our Local Finalists

We couldn't be prouder to see so many of our valued BP Tourism partners recognised for the exceptional experiences they provide.

A massive congratulations to the wonderful team at Marsham Court Hotel, who scooped an impressive three nominations: Responsible, Ethical & Sustainable, Independent Large Hotel, and Team of the Year. Our vibrant accommodation sector is also heavily represented in the Branded Large Hotel category, with both the Holiday Inn Bournemouth and the Highcliff Marriott making the highly competitive final shortlist.

Bournemouth’s legendary nightlife and entertainment scene is also getting the recognition it deserves. The dynamic event producers at HSWRK; who bring such phenomenal energy to our shoreline with their events at BP Tourism partner venue Adventure Attractions' 'Key West' on Bournemouth Pier - are up for both the Nightlife Experience and the People's Choice Award!

Celebrating Across the Coast

While we love championing our Bournemouth businesses, our town's success is deeply intertwined with our spectacular neighbours across Bournemouth, Christchurch & Poole (BCP) and wider Dorset region.

The glittering announcement event was hosted just down the road by our lovely partners at the Captain's Club Hotel & Spa in Christchurch, who are rightly celebrating their own finalist status for Small Hotel. We also want to send a huge well done to Christchurch’s Highcliffe Castle Pantry (shortlisted for Café/Tearoom), Poole’s immaculate South Lytchett Manor Caravan and Camping Park (up for Best Customer Service and Caravan, Camping, Glamping & Motorhome), and Purbeck's world-renowned Monkey World (Attraction of the Year).

Join the Celebrations

The evening also featured a heartfelt announcement from DMB Tourism Awards deliverer Tim Seward, who revealed he will be stepping down after five incredible years of guiding the awards through post-pandemic growth.

The countdown to the grand Gala Evening this November is officially on! Tickets are available now for £110 per person at www.dmb-tourismawards.co.uk. A huge congratulations to all of our Bournemouth and regional finalists - we can't wait to celebrate with you!

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