The finest independent lifestyle businesses across Somerset and its surrounding regions have been announced as finalists in the prestigious Muddy Stilettos Awards 2026. These awards celebrate excellence in 21 lifestyle categories, highlighting the vibrant entrepreneurial spirit throughout Dorset, Somerset, and Bristol.
Following an impressive surge of 20,000 business nominations and nearly half a million votes last year, this year’s finals feature 4,830 exceptional finalists across 23 regions. Only the top 10 nominees in each category from Dorset, Somerset, and Bristol have advanced to this esteemed final round of voting, which runs until 26 May 2026.
This year, the Muddy Stilettos Awards have introduced five exciting new categories: Fashion & Interiors, Best-Loved Pub, Best Artisan Food & Drink Producer, Best Afternoon Tea, and Best Wellness Break, enabling a broader spectrum of lifestyle businesses to shine.
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The diverse group of finalists includes:
- Accommodations such as Emberwood in Bath, Moonfleet Manor near Weymouth, and The Queensberry Hotel in Bath.
- Food and drink providers like Bean Shot Coffee (Bruton), Langham Wine Estate near Dorchester, and The Pump Room in Bath.
- Arts and cultural venues including Black Swan Arts (Frome), Hauser & Wirth Somerset (Bruton), and Royal West of England Academy (Bristol).
- Bars and nightlife spots such as 6 o’clock Gin at The Glassboat (Bristol), Bar Lotte (Frome), and The Milk Thistle (Bristol).
- Wellness and beauty businesses including Chapel Row Beauty Rooms (Bath), Emerald Florence (Frome), and Nu Face Aesthetics (Verwood).
- Unique experiences like Hadspen Glamping (Castle Cary), Myrtle Farm Shepherd’s Huts (near Bristol), and Adventure Bristol.
- And many more across retail, creative arts, and fitness sectors, all exemplifying the excellence and diversity of the lifestyle industry in the region.
With such a rich lineup, the Muddy Stilettos Awards spotlight the dedication, innovation, and community spirit of independent businesses. Supporters are encouraged to cast their votes for their favorite local gems before the voting deadline, determining who will claim the top spots in this revered celebration of lifestyle excellence.