Highly Commended At Tourism Awards
After the Visit Worcestershire Tourism Awards on the 20th of March, I’ve taken a little time to properly reflect - not just on the results, but on the feedback we received and what it means for Hop Pickers going forward.
We were incredibly proud to be named Finalists in Camping, Glamping & Holiday Park of the Year, and to receive Highly Commended in Self-Catering Accommodation of the Year.
It was also lovely to see our recognition shared more widely in the local press, highlighting the work that goes into running a small, family-run rural retreat.
What It Means to Us
Reading through the judges’ feedback, it was genuinely special to see phrases like “warm and personal welcome” and “thoughtful, guest-focused experience”.
There was also recognition of our commitment to sustainability and regenerative tourism, which is something we care deeply about here at Hop Pickers.
Those words really matter - because they reflect exactly what we set out to create. A place that feels personal, considered, and connected to the countryside around it.
A Moment to Step Back
Running a small, family business means you’re often completely immersed in the day-to-day - welcoming guests, maintaining the spaces, planning ahead - without always stepping back to see the bigger picture.
This process gave me that opportunity.
It highlighted what we’re doing well, but also gave us some really helpful pointers on where we can continue to improve.
Learning and Looking Forward
What’s been especially encouraging is recognising where we’ve already started to take steps forward.
We’ve made a conscious effort to reply to every guest review, helping us stay connected and responsive. We’ve also recently put a three-year professional maintenance plan in place for our tennis court - something that will ensure it remains a high-quality part of the experience for years to come.
There are also areas we’re continuing to build on - particularly how we communicate the why behind what we do, and the thought that goes into every part of a stay at Hop Pickers.
None of the feedback felt like criticism. It felt like a roadmap.
Moving Forward
If there’s one thing this experience has reinforced, it’s this:
Growth doesn’t come from winning - it comes from learning.
I’m incredibly proud of what we’ve built here at Hop Pickers, especially over the past year, and even more motivated for the season ahead.
It’s also been inspiring to see so many wonderful businesses recognised - all contributing to making Worcestershire such a special place to visit.
To our guests - past and future - thank you for being part of the journey. Your support, feedback and kind words are at the heart of everything we do.
We’re looking forward to welcoming you soon.
You can read more about our recognition in Worcester News here
Highly Commended At Tourism Awards
After the Visit Worcestershire Tourism Awards on the 20th of March, I’ve taken a little time to properly reflect - not just on the results, but on the feedback we received and what it means for Hop Pickers going forward.
We were incredibly proud to be named Finalists in Camping, Glamping & Holiday Park of the Year, and to receive Highly Commended in Self-Catering Accommodation of the Year.
It was also lovely to see our recognition shared more widely in the local press, highlighting the work that goes into running a small, family-run rural retreat.