Awards and Recognitions: Celebrating Excellence on the Isle of Wight

Welcome to our celebration of the Isle of Wight's accolades! Our beautiful Island is not just a stunning holiday destination; it's also a recognised gem in the travel and tourism industry. Over the years, the Isle of Wight has received numerous awards and recognitions, showcasing our commitment to providing exceptional experiences for visitors and celebrating the unique charm that makes our Island special.

Awards for the Isle of Wight

The Isle of Wight has earned attention and praise from various prestigious organisations. In 2024, we were proudly placed in the top three Islands in the UK in the Condé Nast Traveller Readers' Choice Awards, a testament to our stunning landscapes, rich culture, and welcoming atmosphere. Additionally, we were nominated in the 2024 Most Desirable Island Wanderlust Awards, further solidifying our reputation as a must-visit destination.

Condé Nast Traveller Readers' Choice Awards

We are incredibly proud to announce that the Isle of Wight continues to shine in the prestigious Condé Nast Traveller Readers' Choice Awards. In 2024, we secured an impressive third place among the UK's top islands, further establishing our reputation as a beloved destination for visitors seeking a unique and memorable experience. This recognition follows our fifth-place ranking in the 2022 awards, showing a steady rise in the hearts and minds of travellers worldwide.

Seaside Heritage Network Bucket and Spade List 2024

In a delightful highlight, Ventnor Paddling Pool came second in the 2024 Seaside Heritage Network’s Bucket and Spade List of the Top Ten seaside attractions. This recognition speaks to the cherished memories created at this beloved family spot, where visitors can enjoy the sun and sea in a picturesque setting.

UK Destination of the Year – Group Travel Awards 2023 & 2024

For the past two years, the Isle of Wight has received the gold award for the best UK destination for group travel. This award is organised by Group Leisure & Travel Magazine and voted for by readers who organise a variety of day trips, short breaks and holidays for clubs, societies, local communities, friends and family. 

Awards for Visit Isle of Wight

As the official Destination Marketing Organisation for the Isle of Wight, Visit Isle of Wight has also been celebrated for its innovative marketing strategies and outstanding promotion of the island. Our commitment to enhancing visitor experiences and showcasing the best of our local offerings has earned us several awards in the tourism sector.

Isle of Wight Walking Festival

Visit Isle of Wight manages the Isle of Wight Walking Festival, a firm favourite in the Island’s events calendar. The festival, celebrating its 25 anniversary in 2024, brings over 2,000 registered walkers to the Island every year. The festival has won the following awards:

• Silver Award "Best Tourism event/Festival" - Beautiful South Awards - December 2024
• Rural Tourism Business of the Year Award Finalist, Visit Isle of Wight Walking Festival – Royal Isle of Wight Agricultural Society – July 2024 
• Best Tourism Event in the Southeast - Beautiful South Awards – December 2023
• Bronze Award ‘Best Island event’ – Red Funnel Awards – November 2023
• Won the ‘Made on the Isle of Wight’ Award – Isle of Wight Chamber of Commerce – May 2023

Green Impact Award

Here at Visit Isle of Wight, we recognise that the tourism industry plays a vital role in protecting the environment, and we are proud to lead by example in making the Isle of Wight a beacon of sustainability. Green Impact is a United Nations award-winning programme designed to support environmentally and socially sustainable practices within our organisation. In 2022 we achieved a silver award and in 2023 we were awarded a gold award.