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It's expected to be a busy Valentine's weekend for Harrogate’s hospitality sector as couples and visitors head out to enjoy meals and drinks across the town.
Organisers of the Harrogate Hospitality & Tourism Awards are encouraging diners to look out for exceptional service during their visits and to consider nominating individuals or teams who stand out.
The awards highlight the work of hospitality professionals across the district and aim to recognise those delivering outstanding experiences.
This week is traditionally one of the busiest periods for restaurants and bars in Harrogate.
The district welcomes thousands of visitors throughout the year to its attractions and venues, supported by teams working across hospitality and tourism.
Award organisers say they are seeking to identify individuals and teams who distinguish themselves from colleagues or competitors.
Organiser Simon Cotton said:
"It’s the Valentines weekend in Harrogate this weekend - Love it! - where else would you rather be?!
"If you Love the meal you have this weekend, spare a thought for the chef who cooked it; if you Love the service you just received, share the Love with a nomination for the waiter/waitress or outstanding customer service.
"Why not show the whole team you Love them with a nomination in the team of the year! If you Love eating out at a favourite restaurant or Love a drink at a favourite bar, then Love them publicly with a nomination, basically share the Love by voting and we'd Love you to get involved – get the message?!”
The Harrogate Hospitality and Tourism Awards are organised by the Harrogate Hospitality & Tourism Association and are now in their eighteenth year.
The awards continue to attract support from business visitors, tourists and local residents. There are twelve categories in total, with nominations open to the public.
The twelve award categories are:
- Waiter/Waitress of the Year – sponsored by Harrogate Spring Water
- Bar Person of the Year – sponsored by Matthew Clark
- Chef of the Year – sponsored by Sykes House Farm
- Team of the Year – sponsored by Platinum Print
- Harrogate Ambassador – Sponsored by Your Harrogate Radio
- Newcomer of the Year – Sponsored by Harrogate College
- Unsung Hero – sponsored by Bidfood
- Housekeeper of the Year – sponsored by Beaucare
- Outstanding Customer Service – sponsored LWC Drinks
- Restaurant of the Year – sponsored by Guiness
- Bar of the Year – sponsored by Timothy Taylor & Co Ltd
- Receptionist of the Year – sponsored by Harrogate Christmas & Gift Show
Those working across the categories are expected to be particularly busy this week. Organisers are reminding members of the public to consider nominating their favourite individuals or venues.
Voting forms and posters have been distributed to businesses in Harrogate. Diners can ask their server for a nomination form or submit their vote online at www.harrogatehospitality.co.uk. The closing date for entries is 31st March.
All category winners will be announced at a gala awards dinner at the Royal Hall on Monday 1st June 2026.
Tickets for the dinner will go on sale once the shortlist is announced in early April. Further information about the awards is available by contacting lyndsey.gibbs@hotmail.co.uk.
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