Tourism businesses in Hull and East Yorkshire are being urged to showcase their fantastic achievements on a regional – and potentially national – level, as the Remarkable East Yorkshire Tourism Awards (REYTAs) return for their landmark 15th year.
The awards, organised by Visit Hull and East Yorkshire (VHEY), have officially opened for entries, with the grand finale set for Connexin Live in Hull on Wednesday, November 19.
In collaboration with the esteemed VisitEngland Awards for Excellence, eligible winners from the REYTAs will automatically advance to the national finals. Dumble Farm, which bagged the Remarkable Experience of the Year gong at the 2024 RETAs for its ‘cow cuddling’ sessions, was recently crowned ‘Gold’ winner for Experience of the Year at the VisitEngland awards.
Chris Blacksell, Chair of VHEY, said: “Tourism is the heartbeat of Hull and East Yorkshire, and the REYTAs are our chance to celebrate the people and places that bring our region to life. From unique visitor experiences to unforgettable events and world-class hospitality, the awards are about honouring the passion, creativity and resilience of our tourism sector.
“The REYTAs are a fabulous occasion and give all the finalists fantastic profile, and the recent success of Dumble Farm shows how this can extend to a national level.”
Councillor Rob Pritchard, portfolio holder for tourism at Hull City Council, said: “Hull and East Yorkshire continue to attract visitors from across the UK and beyond, thanks to the outstanding quality and variety of what we have to offer.
“The REYTAs are not only a celebration of our thriving tourism economy but a reminder of the 21,000 people whose work makes that success possible. These awards give us a moment to reflect, celebrate and inspire continued excellence.”
Councillor Nick Coultish, portfolio holder for culture, leisure and tourism at East Riding of Yorkshire Council, added: “The REYTAs play a crucial role in recognising the businesses and individuals who go above and beyond to put Hull and East Yorkshire on the map.
“Whether it’s a local food producer, a boutique hotel or a community-led event, the REYTAs shine a light on the stories that make our region such a distinctive and welcoming destination.”
Following Dumble Farm’s recent success at the VisitEngland awards, owner Fiona Wilson said: “The award ceremony was wonderful – the local food and wine were delicious, and the VisitEngland team made us feel so welcome.
“We’re also incredibly grateful to Visit Hull and East Yorkshire (VHEY) for their support. East Yorkshire is an amazing place. We hope visitors will not only meet our cows but also explore the beautiful farm and surrounding area.”
(Image: Submitted/Lyon PR)
VHEY, the region’s certified Local Visitor Economy Partnership (LVEP), receives support from Hull City Council, East Riding of Yorkshire Council and a broad range of other organisations.
This year, the REYTAs – which are supported by headline sponsors Wykeland Group and Fred Marketing – have introduced 17 award categories, including the new Remarkable Dog Welcome Award, acknowledging the increasing number of dog-friendly venues and experiences in the region. From major attractions and food producers to boutique stays and unforgettable experiences, the REYTAs are open to all tourism-related businesses operating in Hull and East Yorkshire.
The deadline for entries is midnight on Friday, August 1, with registration now open for two application masterclasses offering practical tips. They will take place at Bridlington Spa at 10am on Wednesday, June 25, and The Edge Hub, Hull, at 1.30pm on Friday, July 4.
Judging will include independent panels and mystery shopper assessments, culminating in a glamorous gala event on November 19 where around 500 industry professionals are expected to attend.
Entry is free, and businesses can apply at https://visithullandeastyorkshire.co.uk/remarkable-east-yorkshire-tourism-awards/
The 2025 REYTAs categories are as follows:
- Remarkable Accessible and Inclusive Tourism Award
- Remarkable Business Events Venue of the Year
- Remarkable Camping, Glamping and Holiday Park of the Year
- Remarkable Cuppa Award
- Remarkable Dog Welcome Award
- Remarkable Experience of the Year
- Remarkable Large Hotel of the Year
- Remarkable Local Producer Award
- Remarkable New Tourism Business of the Year
- Remarkable Pub of the Year
- Remarkable Regenerative Tourism Award
- Remarkable Self-Catering Accommodation of the Year
- Remarkable Small Serviced Accommodation of the Year
- Remarkable Taste of East Yorkshire Award
- Remarkable Tourism Event of the Year
- Remarkable Visitor Attraction of the Year
- Remarkable East Yorkshire Passion Award