Search begins for Hull & East Yorkshire’s tourism champions as 2026 REYTAs open for entries
PRESTIGIOUS AWARDS: Chris Blacksell, chair of Visit Hull and East Yorkshire (VHEY), opening last year’s REYTAs. Pictures by Tom Arran
By Rick Lyon, Co-Editor
The search is on for the region’s tourism champions with entries now open for the 16th annual Remarkable East Yorkshire Tourism Awards (REYTAs).
The REYTAs have become one of the area’s most prestigious business awards programmes, helping tourism businesses gain recognition locally, regionally and nationally.
Organised by Visit Hull and East Yorkshire (VHEY), the awards recognise excellence across the visitor economy, from attractions, accommodation providers and hospitality venues to events, experiences and food and drink businesses.
Eligible winners of the REYTAs are put forward for the VisitEngland Awards for Excellence, underlining the role they play in showcasing Hull and East Yorkshire on the national stage.
Chris Blacksell, chair of VHEY, said: “The REYTAs have developed into much more than an awards ceremony. They are a celebration of an industry that contributes enormously to the economy, reputation and identity of Hull and East Yorkshire.
“The awards have highlighted the businesses and individuals who continually raise standards and create memorable experiences for visitors. Every year we see remarkable stories of innovation, resilience and ambition.
“Businesses tell us that simply entering the awards encourages them to reflect on their achievements, benchmark themselves against their peers and identify new opportunities for growth.
“The REYTAs provide a platform to celebrate excellence, share success stories and demonstrate the quality of the visitor experiences that continue to strengthen Hull and East Yorkshire’s reputation as a destination.”
RECOGNITION: The REYTAs are a spectacular celebration of Hull and East Yorkshire’s visitor economy
The deadline for entries is midnight on Friday, July 31, other than for the Remarkable Tourism Event of the Year, which has a deadline of Monday, August 31.
Judging will include independent panels and mystery shopper assessments. Last year, the REYTAs were awarded ‘Outstanding’ in the Awards Trust Mark Accreditation, recognising their transparency, integrity and impact.
VHEY is the region’s accredited Local Visitor Economy Partnership (LVEP), funded by East Riding of Yorkshire Council and Hull City Council and supported by private sector businesses with a shared vision for the region to fulfil its potential.
Councillor Nick Coultish, portfolio holder for culture, leisure and tourism at East Riding of Yorkshire Council, said: “Tourism businesses across our region continue to demonstrate exceptional quality, creativity and commitment, helping to attract visitors and support local communities.
“The REYTAs provide an important opportunity to recognise those achievements and celebrate the businesses and individuals whose efforts help make Hull and East Yorkshire such a distinctive and welcoming destination.
“The awards also showcase the breadth and diversity of our tourism offer, from internationally recognised attractions to independent businesses delivering outstanding visitor experiences.”
Councillor Jackie Dad, deputy leader of Hull City Council, said: “The visitor economy plays a vital role in the region’s success, supporting jobs, attracting investment and helping people discover everything Hull and East Yorkshire has to offer.
“The REYTAs shine a spotlight on the organisations and individuals who work tirelessly to deliver outstanding experiences for residents and visitors alike, while contributing to the vibrancy and character of our destination.
CELEBRATION: Last year’s REYTAs after-party in full swing
“From major cultural attractions and events to independent hospitality and tourism businesses, the awards celebrate the passion, professionalism and innovation that continue to strengthen Hull and East Yorkshire’s reputation as a place people want to visit and return to.”
VHEY is again offering a free application masterclass designed to help businesses submit stronger entries for the 16 categories in the REYTAs and better understand the judging process.
The session will guide applicants through the awards process, explain what judges are looking for, provide practical advice on writing a compelling submission and give attendees the opportunity to ask questions.
The masterclass will take place on Thursday, June 25, from 1pm-3pm at Bay View, Bridlington Spa.
The session is open to both first-time entrants and previous applicants looking to strengthen their submissions.
For more information about the REYTAs, and to enter, visit https://visithullandeastyorkshire.co.uk/remarkable-east-yorkshire-tourism-awards/
To book a place on the application masterclass, visit https://visithulleastyorkshire.formstack.com/forms/reyta_workshop_booking
2026 REYTAs categories:
Remarkable Accessible and Inclusive Tourism Award
Remarkable Business Events Venue of the Year
Remarkable Camping, Glamping and Holiday Park of the Year
Remarkable Regenerative Tourism Award
Remarkable Experience of the Year
Remarkable Large Hotel of the Year
Remarkable Small Serviced Accommodation of the Year
Remarkable New Tourism Business of the Year
Remarkable Pub of the Year
Remarkable Self-Catering Accommodation of the Year
Remarkable Taste of East Yorkshire Award
Remarkable Visitor Attraction of the Year
Remarkable Cuppa Award
Remarkable Local Producer Award
Remarkable Tourism Event of the Year
Remarkable East Yorkshire Passion Award.