19 September 2025

Bournemouth, Christchurch & Poole's Finest Revealed: Finalists Announced for the 2025 DMB Tourism Awards

POOLE, UK – The excitement for the 2025 DMB Tourism Awards has reached fever pitch following the official announcement of this year’s finalists for Bournemouth, Christchurch & Poole. Over 100 of the area's top tourism professionals, sponsors, and applicants gathered for a spectacular celebration on Poole Quay on Thursday, 11th September, to hear the much-anticipated shortlist.

The event kicked off in style aboard a vessel from our event partners, Coastal Cruises, treating guests to a leisurely cruise around the stunning Poole Harbour. Basking in the post-rain sunshine, attendees enjoyed free-flowing prosecco and a vibrant atmosphere powered by high-energy sets from HSWRK RESIDENT DJS DJ Jethro Watson and DJ James Herkes, with a live percussion performance from MyleS Havana Percussion adding to the celebratory mood.

The party continued quayside at La Mia’s Restaurant, where a Conker Gin reception welcomed guests before they indulged in a delicious buffet of paella, fine meats, cheeses, and fresh fruits. The highlight of the evening was the unveiling of the finalists, setting the stage for the main awards Gala Evening ceremony in November.

“One of the Most Competitive Years Yet”

Andy Lennox, Chair of the Destination Management Board (DMB), praised the exceptional quality of this year’s entrants.

“It’s been fantastic to see the awards grow year on year. 2025 has been our most competitive to date — the quality of entries was exceptionally high, and our professional judging panel had some very tough decisions to make. We’re proud to showcase such an impressive range of tourism and hospitality talent.”

Lennox also extended his gratitude to Main Sponsor Morebus for their continued support and gave special recognition to Tim Seward for his dedication in delivering the awards alongside his full-time role.

Returning as host for his fourth consecutive year, Andy Brennan commented on the incredible community spirit. “It’s always great to be back. The passion in this community is incredible — familiar faces return, and exciting new businesses join each year. These awards truly help put Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole on the national map.”

Tim Seward, Lead Deliverer of the awards, added, “This was a perfect day to reconnect and celebrate everything that makes the tourism industry across Bournemouth, Christchurch, and Poole thrive. The weather came through just in time, and the atmosphere was brilliant — a true showcase of community spirit.”

The gallery for Finalist Announcement Event can be found at: https://www.dmb-tourismawards.co.uk/2025-finalist-announcement

Book Now for the Gala Awards Night!

The grand finale, the 2025 DMB Tourism Awards Finals Gala Evening, will be held on Friday, 7th November, at the Hilton Hotel Bournemouth. This glittering black-tie event will celebrate the winners and showcase the very best of the hospitality and tourism sector in Bournemouth, Christchurch, and Poole.

Tickets are on sale now and can be booked at: https://www.dmb-tourismawards.co.uk/gala-evening-2025

The Official 2025 DMB Tourism Awards Finalists

Congratulations to all the businesses and individuals who have been shortlisted!

Wedding Venue

Sponsored by Soul Motion

  • Hotel Miramar
  • Key West Bar & Restaurant
  • Abbots Court

Responsible, Sustainable, Ethical

Sponsored by Adventure Attractions

  • Holiday Inn Bournemouth
  • Marsham Court Hotel
  • Captain’s Club Hotel
  • Oceanarium

Night Life Experience

Sponsored by Southern Entertainment Services

  • Boom Battle Bar
  • HSWRK
  • Barbara’s Bier Haus Bournemouth

Cafe/Tearoom

Sponsored by Comax

  • The Castle Pantry – Highcliffe Castle
  • Oriel on the Quay
  • Saffron Westbourne

Attraction of the Year

Sponsored by Waste Management Facilities

  • RockReef
  • South Coast Karting
  • Shaka Surf
  • Moors Valley

Best Customer Service

Sponsored by RT Promotions

  • Marsham Court Hotel
  • Key West Bar & Restaurant
  • South Lytchett Manor Camping & Caravan Park

Small Hotel

Sponsored by Coastal Cruises

  • The Green House Hotel
  • The Canford Hotel
  • Captain’s Club Hotel

Industry Support

Sponsored by Resort Dorset

  • Harvest Fine Foods
  • Event Temps
  • Bournemouth University Business School
  • Marsham Court Hotel

Rising Star (18–30 Years)

Sponsored by BH Area Hospitality Association

  • Courtney Lilley
  • Morgan Simpson
  • Jasmine Ecclestone

Branded Large Hotel

Sponsored by Comax

  • Hilton Bournemouth
  • Holiday Inn Bournemouth

Eating Out Experience

Sponsored by Tolchards

  • Koi Sakana
  • The Dolphin Street Food
  • St Tropez Lounge
  • Tomoko Ramen

Self-Catering

Sponsored by La Mia’s

  • Driftwood – 64 Hengistbury Head
  • 26 Inveravon
  • Hengistbury Reach Holiday Let
  • South Lytchett Manor Camping & Caravan Park

Industry Leader

Sponsored by Andy Brennan Creative

  • Des Simmons
  • Carly Jervis-Goode
  • Rosie Radwell
  • Quique Medina

Team of the Year

Sponsored by MD Johnson Electrical

  • Bournecoast
  • Holiday Inn Bournemouth
  • Fired Up Collective
  • Adventure Attractions
  • Marsham Court Hotel
  • Bournemouth West Cliff Hotel
  • Oriel on the Quay

Restaurant of the Year

Sponsored by Harvest Fine Foods

  • The Ivy Bournemouth Brasserie
  • Thirteen
  • Rick Stein Sandbanks
  • Old Harry Rocks Bar & Restaurant

Independent Large Hotel

Sponsored by The Coffee Bean Company

  • Marsham Court Hotel
  • The Nici
  • Bournemouth West Cliff Hotel
  • Queens Hotel & Spa

Event of the Year

Sponsored by More

  • Christchurch Carnival CIC
  • Poole Harbour Festival
  • Cliff Top Musical Festival Highcliffe
  • Highcliffe Food and Arts Festival.  

People’s Choice

Sponsored by More

  • Hotel Miramar
  • Holiday Inn Bournemouth
  • Chuck and Blade - The Dolphin Street Food
  • St Tropez Lounge
  • The Libertine
  • Thirteen

Contribution to BCP Tourism

Sponsored by Fired Up Collective

Winner to be announced during the Awards Ceremony

Stay up to date

Get regular updates about upcoming events, trip planning advice and compelling stories.