West Bay Discovery Centre celebrates Dorset Tourism Awards finalist place

We’re delighted to announce that West Bay Discovery Centre has been shortlisted as a finalist in the Best Small Visitor Attraction category of the Dorset Tourism Awards 2026–27, sponsored by Resort Dorset.

It is wonderful recognition for the Centre and, in particular, for the manager and dedicated team of volunteers whose enthusiasm, time and commitment help make the Discovery Centre such a welcoming place for visitors.

Discovery Centre Manager Macarena Styles said:“I am so proud of our fantastic team of volunteers. Their enthusiasm, energy, time and commitment make the Discovery Centre such a special place, and this recognition is a wonderful reflection of everything they do.”

A fantastic achievement

Chair of the Friends of West Bay Discovery Centre, John West, is also delighted with the news. “This is exciting news and it is particularly pleasing to see the Centre amongst finalists of such a high calibre. The Etches Collection, Museum of East Dorset and Dorset Adventure Park are all excellent attractions, so to be shortlisted alongside them is a real achievement.”

The Dorset Tourism Awards are highly regarded and the judging process is thorough. It includes visits and contact by ‘mystery shoppers’, who assess the visitor experience and how well attractions deliver what they promise.

John added: “The Dorset Tourism Awards are highly regarded and the assessment process is demanding. It includes visits and contact by ‘mystery shoppers’, who assess the visitor experience and whether attractions deliver what they promise.”

What happens next?

The winners of the Dorset Tourism Awards will be announced at the awards ceremony on 22 October 2026.

As a finalist, West Bay Discovery Centre will receive either a Gold, Silver or Bronze award and will also automatically be considered for the South West Tourism Excellence Awards.

We’re incredibly proud to have reached the finals and would like to thank our wonderful volunteers, supporters and visitors for helping to make West Bay Discovery Centre what it is today.

Fingers crossed for 22 October!