VisitEngland has announced the finalists for the tourism industry’s national Awards for Excellence - and three of them are based in Yorkshire.

The VisitEngland Awards for Excellence have been honouring the best in England’s tourism industry for more than 35 years.

They celebrate quality, innovation, best practice and customer service.

Finalists represent the very top quality across accessibility, accommodation, attractions, experiences, food and drink, and business events, showcasing the diversity of English tourism.

The trees and shrubs within the grounds of Castle Howard, near York. (Pic credit: James Hardisty)

placeholder image — The trees and shrubs within the grounds of Castle Howard, near York. (Pic credit: James Hardisty)

VisitEngland director, Andrew Stokes, said: “These awards honour the very best businesses and individuals in tourism, who are the driving force in an industry that delivers growth to local economies across England.

“I thank them for their dedicated service, congratulate them on achieving finalist status and wish them every success.”

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The 53 finalists, which were picked through a judging process by tourism industry experts, will compete in 16 categories at this year’s awards.

There will also be three special awards, including the ‘Outstanding Contribution to Tourism Award’, the ‘Travel Content Award’ and the ‘Tourism Superstar Award’.