Bath has emerged as a standout city in this year’s Muddy Stiletto Awards, sweeping five top honors across the Dorset, Somerset, and Bristol region. These awards, decided by a massive half a million votes, showcase the city’s vibrant business scene and exceptional local talent.
Montagu’s Mews at the Royal Crescent Hotel took home the prestigious Best Afternoon Tea award, a true nod to Bath’s culinary heritage. Lorraine Jarvie, general manager, praised her team’s dedication, especially their skilled pastry chefs who craft fresh scones and cakes daily. “In the summer, our front of house team often serves up to 100 afternoon teas a day despite the heat. We’re incredibly proud of their hard work,” Jarvie shared. She also invitingly highlights their Wimbledon-themed afternoon teas and age-old Bath buns, prepared using traditional 18th-century recipes.
Not far away, The Queensberry Hotel earned the accolade for Best Boutique Stay. General manager Oliver Harris expressed excitement over the win, remarking, “Our team has worked tirelessly to deliver an exceptional guest experience. Boutique hotels are becoming rare, and that uniqueness sets us apart.”
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Beyond Bath, the awards recognized outstanding contributions in Somerset and beyond. Sophie Heath of Clevedon was named Best Fitness Instructor, and Bean Shot Coffee from Bruton was honored as the Best Artisan Food and Drink Producer. Meanwhile, businesses throughout Frome, Taunton, Castle Cary, Shepton Mallet, Cheddar, and Chard received nominations, further highlighting the depth of quality across the region.
The Muddy Stiletto Awards celebrate a wide variety of local businesses from The Bath Distillery Gin Bar and The Townhouse Clinic in Bath to establishments like The Cowshed Dorset in Lytchett Minster and Ki-cchin Sushi Bar in Bournemouth. Other winners include Dorset Adventure Park, Cleverly Wrapped in Sherborne, and The Wheatsheaf Combe Hay near Bath, illustrating the diverse and thriving business community across Dorset, Somerset, and Bristol.
This year’s results underscore Bath’s reputation as a cultural and hospitality hub, especially when it comes to indulgent afternoon teas and unique boutique accommodations. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, it’s the perfect excuse to explore and enjoy some of the region’s finest offerings.