Devon’s most awarded tourism business

The Cottages at Blackadon Farm, based near Ivybridge on Dartmoor National Park, has swept the board at this year’s Devon Tourism Awards, recognising the small business’ contribution to one of the county’s most important industries.

In one of the most competitive counties across the country for tourism awards, and one regarded for high-quality standards, They received four awards during a glittering ceremony held at Home Park Stadium in Plymouth: two gold and two silver. The awards were in the categories of Self-Catering Accommodation of the Year; Dog Friendly Tourism Business; Resilience and Innovation; and Ethical, Responsible and Sustainable Tourism.

Since owners Marcus Bailey and Ryan Lynch established The Cottages at Blackadon Farm three years ago, they have received more accolades than any other tourism business across the prestigious awards programme. They have won eight gold and silver awards in total. Their awards journey started with gold for New Tourism Business and continued with accolades in the Self-Catering Accommodation of the Year category for two consecutive years; twice in the Ethical, Responsible and Sustainable category; and twice for Resilience and Innovation. This year marks their first time winning an award in the Dog Friendly category having made every property paw-fect for four legged friends.

Over the last three years, Marcus and Ryan have been raising standards in Devon’s tourism industry. The awards have supported business growth and their ability to contribute to the important tourism economy every day of the year. They are open 365 days a year and welcome a range of tourists ranging from large groups, retreats, celebrations, families, adult-only escapes and dog friendly guests.

The Cottages at Blackadon Farm work with local businesses ranging from caterers, attractions and outdoor pursuit partners to give guests a ‘Devon is Heaven’ experience.; Amongst the loyal guests are well-regarded musicians, authors, heath-experts, Olympians and television personalities looking to experience the best that Devon has to offer.

Up to 50 guests can be accommodated in properties that range from a one-bedroom cottage to The Great Barn that can sleep thirty, all with ensuite bathrooms. Guests enjoy direct access to Dartmoor and have high-spec, practical accommodation that includes the fastest private Wi-Fi, beds used by five-star hotels, plus extra touches like smart televisions, digital assistants, electric vehicle chargers, bespoke nature-related kids’ activities, sculpture trail, grow-your-own veg and coffee machines with recyclable pods to help kick-start the day.

The Cottages at Blackadon Farm was especially delighted to receive the gold award for being ethical, responsible and sustainable. Devon is home to the UK’s first National Marine Park in Plymouth, as well as both Dartmoor and Exmoor; two national parks, areas of outstanding natural beauty and the stunning South West Coast Path. Marcus and Ryan see themselves as stewards of these special environments and encourage tourists to enjoy them responsibly.

The property was the first business to receive Gold Tourism under a special designated project from Visit Plymouth and Destination Plymouth. This led to Marcus being invited to speak at an event to encourage more participation from the Plymouth tourism community. Things didn’t stop there; Visit Dartmoor, the official destination management organisation for Dartmoor National Park, requested a presentation for members so they can become greener. Additionally, Marcus was asked to oversee the redevelopment of Visit Dartmoor’s sustainability pledge which sets the standard for other tourism organisations and national parks.

Marcus and Ryan, commented: “We couldn’t be happier right now. Receiving four awards in the Devon Tourism Awards makes us feel incredibly proud of The Cottages at Blackadon Farm, our team, guests and community. Devon is a very special place with 1,000’s of tourism businesses who showcase its beauty to tourists throughout the year. We are delighted to be ambassadors for our county and look forward to a bumper 2023.”

They added: “Becoming the most crowned tourism business in Devon over the last three years with eight awards is something we wouldn’t have dreamed possible when we established The Cottages at Blackadon Farm. Our efforts have paid off and this makes us feel proud of our place which really shows that Devon is heaven.”

Awards organiser Robin Barker of Services for Tourism said:;“This year’s judging was extraordinarily tough and I offer heartfelt congratulations to all finalists.; To excel at times like these is a sign of real commitment.”

Having been successful winners in the Visit Devon Tourism Awards, The Cottages at Blackadon Farm will now be put forward in the South West Tourism Awards which include the best tourism businesses from Devon, Cornwall, Scilly Isles, Dorset, Bristol & Bath, Somerset Wiltshire and Gloucestershire.