Visit Herefordshire Tourism Awards Judging 2025

• An independent panel of expert judges leads the decision-making process. We select each judge for their impartiality, professional experience, and alignment with specific award categories.
• Judges review every entry using a combination of mystery shop reports, online presence, and supporting evidence. They base their decisions solely on the information available at the time of judging.
• All decisions are final.
• Due to the tight timeline, we cannot offer an appeal process for the 2025 awards. However, if you believe inaccurate evidence has been considered, please contact the awards coordinator as early as possible. While we can’t change current outcomes, we may take your concerns into account for future judging rounds.
• Every entrant will receive summary feedback to support their continued growth and development.
• Eligible winners will automatically be considered for the national VisitEngland Awards for Excellence offering a chance to shine on a national stage.
• We’ll reveal the winners at the official awards ceremony in February 2026. Get ready to celebrate Herefordshire’s tourism excellence!

Round 1 Judging 2025

• Judges assess each entry based on the information you provide in your application, along with your online presence and customer reviews.
• They actively look for evidence of your commitment to accessible and inclusive tourism, as well as regenerative tourism practices. Make sure your application clearly demonstrates how your business meets these values.
• Judges also evaluate how your website and social media channels inspire visitors to choose Herefordshire and your business. They’ll check how effectively you communicate your offer, how easy it is to find key information, and how well your content performs across different devices like smartphones and tablets.
• Each question on the application form carries a score. If you leave a question blank, you won’t receive any points for it, which could lower your overall score. So, take the time to complete every section thoroughly.
• Strong entries tell a clear story, backed by real examples. Show the judges what makes your business stand out..

Round 2 Judging 2025

• Independent judges visit shortlisted businesses as part of the judging process. Where possible, these visits will be conducted as mystery shops.
• Visit formats vary by category, and your application form outlines what to expect. Make sure your team is aware of the possibility of a mystery visit to avoid confusion.
• By entering the awards, you agree to waive or refund the direct costs of any visit. This may include admission tickets, accommodation, meals, treatments, or other services depending on your category. After the visit, the mystery shopper will present a letter of authorisation confirming this arrangement.
• We recommend briefing your staff in advance so they’re prepared to handle this professionally.
• Submitting your entry confirms your agreement to these terms. If you have questions or need clarification, contact the awards coordinator as early as possible.