Babbacombe's Cary Arms among top winners at tourism awards

Babbacombe’s Cary Arms and the English Riviera Visitor Information Centre flew the flag for Torbay Tourism this week, taking home Gold and Silver Awards at the South West Tourism Excellence Awards.

The awards night, sponsored by Wildanet, saw tourism businesses from across South West England celebrating in style as 89 awards were presented. The annual event was the grand finale of 12 months of entry, judging and feedback as over 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 amongst 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 Cary Arms in Babbacombe was awarded Gold in the Casual Dining Award, sponsored by the Luscombe Drinks.

A spokesperson for the Cary Arms said: “The team had a fantastic night celebrating the success of tourism in the South West, we would like to congratulate all the businesses with their achievement.  

“Over the years, the team has consistently been recognised for the wonderful quality of work and service that they deliver, from their friendly and professional customer care to the quality of our AA Rosette cuisine.”

The hotel restaurant and spa serves a selection of seasonal dishes but focuses on seafood.

The Cary Arms added: “Our team of talented chefs work with some great local suppliers using the most exquisite fresh produce within the Westcountry. It's all about delivering a fabulous dining experience in the relaxing setting of Babbacombe Bay.”

The English Riviera BID Company's Visitor Information Centre in Torquay also took away a Silver Award for the Visitor Information Service of the Year, in partnership with the South West Coast Path Association.

“Our English Riviera Visitor Information Centre was thrilled to win Silver in the 'Best Visitor Information Service of the Year' category at the Tourism Awards.

“We are proud of our amazing team and this award recognises their hard work and dedication in providing exceptional service to our visitors and for our commitment to delivering the best experience possible.

“Come visit us and let us help you make the most of your time on the English Riviera.”

Robin Barker, Director of Services for Tourism Ltd, who manage the Awards, added: “The impact of these awards on the region’s top tourism businesses never ceases to amaze me.  It means so much to them.  Many congratulations to each and every one of them .”