Somerset’s finest lifestyle businesses have been celebrated at the prestigious Muddy Stilettos Awards 2025, which highlight the best independent shops, eateries, and service providers in the region. This year’s awards drew an impressive public response, with over 11 million people reached nationally during eight weeks of voting and half a million votes cast. Somerset contenders competed alongside businesses from Dorset and Bristol.
Among the standout winners was Burnworthy Retreat near Taunton, taking home the Boutique Stay award for its charming and romantic log cabins and treehouse accommodations. Aurora Kusina in Shepton Mallet secured the top spot for Casual Dining, praised for its fresh take on Filipino comfort food. The Packhorse in South Stoke was named Destination Pub, affirming its reputation as TripAdvisor’s number one pub in Bath.
Waterside Country Barn in Bradford-on-Tone earned the Best Event Venue award, while Ben Russell Salon in Ilminster was crowned Best Hair Salon for its excellence in style and service. No. 15 Bath by GuestHouse took home Best Hotel honors amid a competitive field of finalists predominantly from Somerset and Bath.
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The Cherry Tree in Martock was recognised as the Best Local Food/Drink Producer for its exquisite preserves, and Alfredo’s in Somerton impressed as the Best Restaurant with its authentic Italian cuisine. The award for Women’s Style went to Deadly is the Female in Frome, known for its vintage 1940s and 1950s Hollywood-inspired fashion.
Muddy Stilettos, now in its 12th year, expressed gratitude to the community and voters, emphasizing that the awards remain a free platform celebrating the independent lifestyle businesses that enrich daily life and drive local vibrancy.
This year’s winners represent a diverse and thriving collection of local enterprises that continue to make Somerset and its neighbouring regions a hub for innovation, creativity, and outstanding customer experiences.