Exceptional quality recognised at Mid Wales Tourism Awards Ceremony
Three businesses had double reason to celebrate this week after collecting two awards each at a prestigious ceremony that recognised the exceptional quality of the Mid Wales tourism and hospitality industry.
Fifteen winners were announced at the Mid Wales Tourism Awards 2024-25 held at Gregynog Hall, Tregynon, near Newtown on Tuesday (10th December, 2024). Some will now represent Mid Wales at the Wales National Tourism Awards next spring.
The double winners were Canvas & Campfires, Llanwnnen, Lampeter, Llangoed Hall Hotel, Llyswen, Brecon and Plas Estate, Llangoedmor, Cardigan.
Canvas & Campfires was named Best Glamping or Quirky Accommodation and added the Accessibility and Inclusivity Award. Llangoed Hall Hotel won the Best Hotel Award and staff member Abbie Woods was named the Rising Star. Plas Llangoedmor took home the Best B&B, Guesthouse or Inn Award and was named Best Dog Friendly Business.
The awards - the first since the Covid pandemic - recognise and celebrate the region’s thriving tourism industry across Powys, Ceredigion and Southern Eryri (Snowdonia). They were organised by MWT Cymru (Mid Wales Tourism), with backing from the Mid Wales Regional Tourism Forum and Visit Wales, the Welsh Government’s tourism arm.
Sponsors were Cambrian Training Company, Powys and Ceredigion County Councils and Visit Wales.
The other winners were: Best Holiday Park, Meadow Springs Country and Leisure Park, Trefeglwys. Best Camping or Touring Park, Woodlands Caravan Park, Devil’s Bridge, Aberystwyth. Best Self Catering Business, Bryn Tanat Hall, Llansantffraid. Best Place to Eat and Drink, Y Talbot, Tregaron.
Best Event, Royal Welsh Show, Llanelwedd. Best Attraction, Vale of Rheidol Railway, Aberystwyth. Bro y Byd (Environmental Sustainability) Award, The National Showcaves Centre for Wales, Dan yr Ogof, Abercraf. Best Activity, Mountain Bike Wales, Staylittle, Llanidloes. Best Third Sector Business, Welshpool & Llanfair Light Railway, Llanfair Caereinion.
A Special Recognition Award was presented to Heart of Wales 7’s at Llanidloes Rugby Club, which attracts thousands of visitors.
The other finalists were: Best Hotel: Trefeddian Hotel, Aberdyfi. Best B&B, Guest House or Inn: Y Seler, Aberaeron. Best Self Catering Accommodation: Plas Estate, Llangoedmor. Best Place to Eat and Drink: Y Ffarmers, Llanfihangel-y-Creuddyn, Aberystwyth. Best Camping or Touring Park: Bargoed Farm Caravan and Camping Park, Llwyncelyn, Aberaeron. Best Glamping or Quirky Accommodation: By the Wye, Hay-on-Wye. Best Holiday Park or Holiday Home Park: Derwen Mill Holiday Park, Guilsfield. Best Activity or Experience: Black Mountain Adventure, Three Cocks, Brecon. Best Visitor Attraction: The National Showcaves Centre for Wales Best Dog Friendly Business: Canvas & Campfire. Best Event: Wonderwool Wales. Rising Star: Gabi Wilson, Cambrian Training Company, Welshpool.
A not-for-profit social enterprise, MWT Cymru represents and supports more than 600 tourism businesses and organisations across Powys, Ceredigion and Southern Eryri (Snowdonia).
Rowland Rees-Evans, MWT Cymru’s chairman, congratulated all the award winners and finalists, saying they were all winners and thanked the sponsors for their support.
“We had fantastic entries this year and these awards showcase the best of the best in Mid Wales,” he added. “Hopefully, the winners will go forward and do well in the Wales National Tourism Awards early next year.”
Award Winners
L-R: Steve Hughson Mid Wales Regional Tourism Forum, Jordan Davies Heart of Wales 7’s, and Rowland Rees-Evans MWT Cymru
|
Special Recognition Award: Heart of Wales Rugby 7’s
The Heart of Wales Rugby 7s promotes itself as Wales' biggest sport and music festival. Based in Llanidloes, the event will be 10 years old in 2025 and attracts 5,000 visitors to the region including international teams and visitors. The event raises money for Tough Enough To Care, a mental health charity and works closely with the local community, bringing substantial economic benefits to the local and visitor economy and helps to raise awareness of towns like Llanidloes. HoW7 exemplifies how sport can serve as a powerful tool for community development, mental health advocacy and economic stimulation. It encourages stronger partnerships between events and industries to maximise local and regional benefits. Jordan Davies, owner of Heart of Wales Group, said: “We are delighted to win this award for the Heart of Wales 7s, an event that will be celebrating its 10th birthday next year. The event supports Tough Enough to Care, a charity that tries to stimulate conversations about mental health in male dominated spaces.” |
L-R: Steve Hughson Mid Wales Regional Tourism Forum, Carl Shaw National Showcaves Centre for Wales, and Rowland Rees-Evans MWT Cymru
|
Bro y Byd (Environmental Sustainability): National Showcaves Centre of Wales, Dan Yr Ogof.
One of the first attractions in the UK to be self-sufficient for energy, which is achieved by using two hydro generators and six separate solar installations. When these are not needed, the electricity is exported to the National Grid. There are more than 130 solar panels across self-catering facilities and caravan park. The hydro-electric system saves 150 tons of CO2 emissions annually. Dan yr Ogof has planted more than 80,000 broad leafed trees, encouraging birds of prey to nest and helping to prevent flooding from the high rainfall in the area. The visitor attraction has installed bat and owl nest boxes to encourage wildlife habitats. A lake has been created on site with an island in the centre to aid return of wetland birds to the area which is a safe place for them to nest. The farm runs a Shire Horse Centre, helping an endangered breed to remain in Wales with an annual breeding programme. Dan yr Ogof won the Excellence in Sustainability Award at the Powys Business Awards in October. Carl Shaw, National Showcaves Centre for Wales director, said: “We are delighted to have won this award and a Powys Business Award this year. This award is recognition for the investment we have made to reduce our carbon footprint.” |
L-R: Steve Hughson Mid Wales Regional Tourism Forum, Ellie Waters & Dan Neale Canvas & Campfires, and Rowland Rees-Evans MWT Cymru
|
Accessibility and Inclusivity Tourism Award: Canvas & Campfires
Two of the safari tents are accessible and were the first of their kind in the UK, one having a hot tub as part of its facilities. Canvas & Campfires offers a 10% discount code for disabled guests because they often still have to pay a premium for goods and services. Works with Cantre Mobility, a disability equipment provider, to ensure equipment hired is in place, set up and tested, prior to guests’ arrival. The team won a commendation at the Blue Badge Access awards in 2022 and is a Visit Wales Gold Award winner. Dan Neale and Ellie Waters from Canvas & Campfires said: “We are really delighted to have won the two awards and we are looking forward to representing Mid Wales in the national final in March. “The awards are well organised and showcase the high quality tourism businesses in Mid Wales. We are proud to be part of the awards.” Best Glamping or Quirky Accommodation: Canvas and Campfires Canvas & Campfires is based in the heart of the Ceredigion countryside. It has five luxury safari tents and a converted 18th century ‘Little Cowshed’. The undulating site offers guests amazing views and a secluded, relaxed experience. |
L-R: Steve Hughson Mid Wales Regional Tourism Forum, Steve Clews Welshpool & Llanfair Light Railway, and Rowland Rees-Evans MWT Cymru
|
Best Third Sector: Welshpool & Llanfair Light Railway
The railway is dedicated to preserving and operating the eight-mile-long heritage line and its original equipment, alongside an extensive collection of rolling stock from around the world. It ensures high levels of customer service through thorough volunteer training and offers diverse events catering to various audiences and age groups. The railway receives excellent reviews, reflecting a passionate and committed team. The railway provides accessibility for families, dog owners, individuals with physical impairments, neurodivergent visitors and non-English speakers. It demonstrates strong community engagement and promotes the Welsh language throughout its operations. |
Best Hotel: Llangoed Hall
Llangoed Hall is a 17th-century hotel featuring 23 uniquely designed bedrooms that blend traditional charm with modern luxury. The award-winning, two rosette restaurant emphasises seasonal, locally sourced ingredients, earning praise from critics and guests alike.
Recognised by the Sunday Times as the Country Hotel of the Year on numerous occasions, the hotel is renowned for delivering exquisite service and exceptional attention to detail, creating an unforgettable guest experience. Llangoed Hall is also celebrated for its commitment to promoting local tourism and supporting the community.
Llangoed Hall is a 17th-century hotel featuring 23 uniquely designed bedrooms that blend traditional charm with modern luxury. The award-winning, two rosette restaurant emphasises seasonal, locally sourced ingredients, earning praise from critics and guests alike.
Recognised by the Sunday Times as the Country Hotel of the Year on numerous occasions, the hotel is renowned for delivering exquisite service and exceptional attention to detail, creating an unforgettable guest experience. Llangoed Hall is also celebrated for its commitment to promoting local tourism and supporting the community.
L-R: Steve Hughson Mid Wales Regional Tourism Forum, Peter Austin and Lisa Kenny Gough Plas Estate, and Rowland Rees-Evans MWT Cymru
|
Best B & B, Guest Accommodation, Restaurant with Rooms or Inn: Plas Llangoedmor Estate, Cardigan
Plas Llangoedmor is a luxury Bed & Breakfast that represents the jewel in the crown of the Plas Estate. Established in 2018 by Kath and Pete Austin as a family-operated holiday business, the estate began with one, award-winning, five-star self-catering cottage and has since expanded into a collection of five-star properties and the Plas Llangoedmor Bed & Breakfast. Guests receive a digital guest book, followed by a personal call from the hosts to assist in making the most of their visit. The property offers 24/7 assistance, dog sitting, private tours and a commitment to ensuring that no request is too much trouble. Kath Austin from Plas Llangoedmor Estate said: “We are delighted with the awards and we have had some lovely comments from our guests. The awards are confirmation of all the hard work and spur us on to think about next year.” Best Dog Friendly Business: Plas Estate Plas Estate aims to set a new standard for luxurious dog-friendly accommodation. Drawing on extensive research with their own dogs, the estate balances practicality and luxury, welcoming multiple dogs without additional fees or restrictive rules and has a canine spa onsite |
L-R: Steve Hughson Mid Wales Regional Tourism Forum, Kirsty Martin and Susan Martin Bryn Tanat Hall, and Rowland Rees-Evans MWT Cymru
|
Best Self Catering: Bryn Tanat, Llansantffraid
Bryn Tanat Hall is a luxury, five-star self-catering estate featuring four properties available for self-catering stays. On-site facilities include tennis courts, a fitness suite and a Wellness Spa. Accommodation comprises 14 bedroom Hall, sleeping up to 28 guests, Parkland Lodges, which sleep up to eight guests each, and the ‘Mercury Eco-Cabin,’ which accommodates up to two adults and two children. Each property is equipped with a private hot tub. Accommodation can be booked individually or all under one exclusive booking accommodating a total of 48 guests. Susan Martin from Bryn Tanat Hall, Llansantffraid said: “We are truly delighted to win this award. It’s the first time that we have put ourselves forward for an award and the exposure is wonderful.” |
L-R: Steve Hughson Mid Wales Regional Tourism Forum, Alfie Chism and Georgina Hewitt Woodlands Caravan Park, and Rowland Rees-Evans MWT Cymru
|
Best Camping & Touring Site: Woodlands Caravan Park, Devil’s Bridge, Aberystwyth
The motto of The Woodlands Caravan Park is "Where friends and memories are made." The touring and camping side of the park has become a cherished destination for both returning and new customers. The site features award-winning washroom facilities, large, well-maintained pitches with options for hard standing or grass and choices with or without electric hookups. Staff are trained to provide personalised service tailored to the unique needs of each group. Georgina Hewitt and Alfie Chism from Woodlands Caravan Park, said: “We are very surprised and honoured to win this award which means a lot to us. We have put a lot of hard work into the site over the last five to 10 years and it’s nice to see it recognised.” |
L-R: Steve Hughson Mid Wales Regional Tourism Forum, Clive Bowen, Meadow Springs Country & Leisure Park, and Rowland Rees-Evans MWT Cymru
|
Best Holiday Park: Meadow Springs Country & Leisure Park, Trefeglwys
Meadow Springs Country & Leisure Park is a Visit Wales five-star touring and holiday home park. Opened in February 2022, it offers low-density touring, static caravans and holiday lodges designed to blend in with the surrounding countryside of the beautiful Trannon Valley. Clive Bowen, facilities manager at Meadow Springs Country & Leisure Park, said: “We are just over the moon to win this award, which recognises everybody connected with Meadow Springs and all the effort they put in. “From a business perspective, the award justifies everything we have done over the last few years and the investment made.” |
L-R: Steve Hughson Mid Wales Regional Tourism Forum, Phill Stasiw and Polly Clark, Mountain Bike Wales, and Rowland Rees-Evans MWT Cymru
|
Best Activity, Experience or Tour: Mountain Bike Wales
Mountain Bike Wales is an adventure tour business specialising in multi-day rides across Wales. Tours are tailored to suit the needs of each group, with accommodation, food and transfers included. The business offers a tailored experienced to individual groups and encourages collaboration between local businesses. Phil Stasiw, owner of Mountain Bike Wales, said: “It means a lot to win this award because it has taken us a long time to build the business and we are really proud of it. We now welcome 300 people a year for multi-day tours across Wales. “We work with top quality accommodation providers who make a major contribution to the success of our tours.” |
L-R: Steve Hughson Mid Wales Regional Tourism Forum, Aled Rhys Jones and Clare Griffiths, Royal Welsh Agricultural Society, and Rowland Rees-Evans MWT Cymru
|
Best Event: Royal Welsh Show
The Royal Welsh Agricultural Society (RWAS), founded in 1904, supports and promotes agriculture, rural industries and the countryside. The RWAS is best known for organising the annual Royal Welsh Show, one of Europe's largest agricultural events. Held every July in Llanelwedd, near Builth Wells, the four-day event attracts hundreds of thousands of visitors, featuring livestock, equine competitions, horticulture, pole climbing and fur and feather exhibits, as well as 12-hour entertainment programmes across the site. Aled Rhys Jones, Royal Welsh Agricultural Society chief executive, said: “We are thrilled that the Royal Welsh Show has been named the Best Event in Mid Wales for 2024. “This prestigious recognition is a testament to the dedication and hard work of our incredible volunteers, stakeholders, partners and staff whose efforts have made this event such a resounding success. “This award is especially meaningful as we celebrate 120 years since the very first show in 1904, a milestone that underlines the enduring legacy and impact of this iconic event. “We would also like to extend our warmest congratulations to all the other winners and finalists whose contributions continue to support and strengthen the vibrant and diverse tourism industry in Mid Wales.” |
L=R, Steve Hughson Mid Wales Regional Tourism Forum, Faith O’Brien Cambrian Training Company, Tracy Watkin Y Talbot, and Rowland Rees-Evans
|
Best Place to Eat & Drink: Y Talbot, Tregaron
Y Talbot is a four-star inn with a restaurant, pub and 13 bedrooms. The business attributes its success to its dedicated team, emphasising staff training to enhance knowledge and expertise across all departments. Y Talbot won the Inn of the Year from the AA and is run by Dafydd and Tracy Watkin who previously worked together at The Ritz in London. Tracy said: “It’s a great honour to win the award which is thanks to our staff and the people behind the scenes who make it all work. We now employ 20 full and part-time staff. “I must thank the sponsors and MWT Cymru for all their work on the awards.” |
L=R, Steve Hughson Mid Wales Regional Tourism Forum, Stuart Williams, Vale of Rheidol Railway, and Rowland Rees-Evans
|
Best Visitor Attraction: Vale of Rheidol Railway
The Vale of Rheidol Railway is a heritage steam railway running from Aberystwyth to Devil's Bridge in the Cambrian Mountains. Known for its scenic 12-mile journey through the Rheidol Valley, it offers a nostalgic experience on meticulously restored trains. The railway has expanded its offerings by opening a new museum, showcasing Welsh rail heritage while providing a space for local community events and meetings. It blends heritage practices with modern technology for the better maintenance and creation of rolling stock. Significant investment has been made in staff training to ensure the highest quality visitor experience. Stuart Williams, representing Vale of Rheidol Railway, said: “We are delighted to be recognised for all the hard work done by the ‘Wales to the World’ project to transform an old 1930s building at Aberystwyth Station into a world class museum.” |
Rising Star Award: Abbie Woods
Abbie joined Llangoed Hall in April 2023 as a general assistant, quickly immersing herself in various aspects of hotel operations, including housekeeping, kitchen assistance and restaurant service.
Despite having no prior managerial experience, her exceptional dedication and skills saw her promoted to assistant manager within just two weeks. With a Masters Degree in Hospitality and Tourism, she adapted swiftly to her new role, taking on additional responsibilities such as managing the front office, co-ordinating events, overseeing marketing activities and ensuring compliance with health and safety regulations.
Her proactive approach and commitment to personal growth, including pursuing further studies in hotel management and HR, have been key to her success. Her resilience in overcoming personal challenges, including significant hardships, underscores her strength and determination.
Abbie’s leadership, innovative mindset and passion for fostering an inclusive hospitality environment make her an invaluable asset to the team and a promising leader in the industry.
Abbie joined Llangoed Hall in April 2023 as a general assistant, quickly immersing herself in various aspects of hotel operations, including housekeeping, kitchen assistance and restaurant service.
Despite having no prior managerial experience, her exceptional dedication and skills saw her promoted to assistant manager within just two weeks. With a Masters Degree in Hospitality and Tourism, she adapted swiftly to her new role, taking on additional responsibilities such as managing the front office, co-ordinating events, overseeing marketing activities and ensuring compliance with health and safety regulations.
Her proactive approach and commitment to personal growth, including pursuing further studies in hotel management and HR, have been key to her success. Her resilience in overcoming personal challenges, including significant hardships, underscores her strength and determination.
Abbie’s leadership, innovative mindset and passion for fostering an inclusive hospitality environment make her an invaluable asset to the team and a promising leader in the industry.