We’re off to the National Finals!
Regional success sees Duke’s Lodge heading to National Tourism Awards finals
Whoop! Whoop! It’s official – Duke’s Lodge, our ‘characterful, dog-friendly self-catering cottage of distinction’ will be representing the East of England in Visit England’s selection of businesses put forward for consideration in the prestigious National Tourism Awards in 2025.
Duke’s Lodge secured this exciting opportunity when it was placed ‘Runner Up – New Tourism Business of the Year at the 2025 Norfolk & Suffolk Tourism Awards ceremony held in Norwich Castle.
What an achievement for the Bobbie, Simon and all those who have supported them in their vision for Duke’s Lodge!
Being ranked amongst the tourism industry’s ‘chosen ones’ within year 1 of business is such an awesome acknowledgement and reward for all the love and hard work put in to make Duke’s Lodge into the fabulous large house holiday let it is today.
No wonder Simon has a big grin on his face!
What a winning formula!
5 Star and Gold accommodation awards… a Silver Award for Green Tourism… and now this Suffolk & Norfolk Tourism accolade with a National Finals opportunity – Simon and Bobbie definitely have a winning formula with Duke’s Lodge.
“We’re absolutely delighted and just totally blown away at receiving this award and the opportunity that it brings,” says Simon who in 2023, together with his artist-wife, Bobbie, set about transforming the then practical Earsham Park Farmhouse into a luxury large holiday place to stay complete with outdoor dining and hot tub complex.
It has been an incredible, two-year, hands-on journey. And it’s only when you see guests truly at home in the space we have created – sharing quality time together and engaging with the rural farm setting – that you know that your instinct and vision was right.
It’s all been such a labour of love and it’s just great to share our passion for the countryside and community of local producers with our guests. It’s is so important to us.”
“The recognition this award brings is just the icing on the cake!” says Simon. “We’ll be heading to the June awards, together with just a handful of other tourism businesses from around the region – it’s unbelievable really.”
“It’s just such a pity though that Bobbie was unable to be at the awards ceremony alongside me in Norwich – but she will insist on disappearing off across the world for inspirational wildlife adventures everyone now and then! That’s artists for you. But where would Duke’s Lodge be if it wasn’t for her amazing creativity and vision?”
Where indeed. Hopefully Bobbie will have her feet firmly planted in good ol’ Blighty, when the national awards ceremony comes along in June!
Wish us luck – and watch this space!
