Shining a spotlight on the Isle of Wight’s Best: Red Funnel’s annual awards celebrate local excellence

Yesterday, Red Funnel held its 5th annual Isle of Wight Awards at Northwood House in Cowes, recognising the local businesses that make the Isle of Wight a wonderfully different place to live and visit. The prestigious celebration honoured the contributions of businesses which shape the Island’s distinctive character and bring exceptional experiences to residents and visitors alike.

Through a community-driven voting process, visitors and locals had the opportunity to vote for their favourite Island tourism businesses across 19 award categories, which featured places to stay, places to eat, things to do, and the acclaimed Isle of Woof award. In total, 57 businesses were awarded Gold, Silver, or Bronze on the night for their contribution to Island tourism, showcasing the variety of exceptional experiences the Isle of Wight offers visitors .

Fran Collins, CEO of Red Funnel, presented the awards last night and expressed heartfelt congratulations to all the winners: “It’s always an honour to be among such talented and dedicated leaders in the Isle of Wight’s tourism industry. At Red Funnel, we’re proud to support this community by celebrating the people and excellence behind so many fantastic businesses. My congratulations go to every business nominated – they are what makes this Island so special.”

This year’s winners included both previously decorated businesses and 22 exciting newcomers to the Red Funnel Isle of Wight Awards, including the well-known Southern Vectis – Breezer Experience, Busy Bee Garden Centre and The Model Village Godshill to name but a few.

New to the Isle of Wight Awards in 2024, Eddie’s Surf Academy picked up Gold in the Best Activity Provider category – a sparkling debut for this independent business. Speaking on award win, Saide Cole, from Eddie’s Surf Academy, said: “Being nominated and winning an award is a testament to the amazing support system we have. Thank you to everyone who has believed in us and helped us along the journey”

Previous winners of the Best Pub and Best Burger awards, this year The Blacksmiths took home Gold in for Best Roast, adding another award to their impressive accolades. Rachel Burrow, from The Blacksmiths, said: “We are elated to win gold for the new Roast dinner category. We feel honoured to be amongst other high flying businesses. We would like to thank everyone who has voted for us.”

For those hoping to be at next year’s ceremony, nominations for the 2025 Red Funnel Isle of Wight Awards will open on Thursday 14th November.

The full list of this year’s winners can be found HERE