There’s exciting news for Diggerland Devon! The park has reached the final of the Devon Tourism Awards 2026, securing a place in the Small Visitor Attraction of the Year category, sponsored by MiHi Digital.
This recognition marks a fantastic achievement for the whole team. It also celebrates the hard work and investment that continue to make Diggerland a popular family attraction in Devon.
From brand-new rides and exciting activities to improved outdoor spaces, there’s plenty happening at the park. Here’s a closer look at the achievement and what makes this such an exciting time for Diggerland Devon.
Devon Tourism Awards 2026 recognises Diggerland’s achievements
The Devon Tourism Awards celebrate excellence across the county’s tourism and hospitality industry. They recognise the attractions, businesses and individuals who help make Devon a leading visitor destination.
Reaching the final places Diggerland among the attractions recognised for their contribution to Devon’s tourism industry.
The Small Visitor Attraction of the Year category celebrates attractions that provide memorable visitor experiences. For Diggerland, reaching the final reflects the team’s continued commitment to developing the park and welcoming guests.
The awards ceremony takes place on Thursday 3rd December 2026 at the Crowne Plaza Plymouth. Tourism and hospitality businesses from across Devon will attend the event, hosted once again by Thomas Chartres-Moore.
The winners will be announced during the evening. Naturally, the Diggerland team will be hoping to bring home the award!
Investment brings exciting new experiences to Diggerland Devon
Reaching the final of the Devon Tourism Awards 2026 comes during a period of significant investment at the park.
Over the last 12 months, Diggerland Devon has invested hundreds of thousands of pounds in new attractions and improvements. This investment helps keep the park fresh, exciting and enjoyable for returning visitors and first-time guests.
Recent additions include a brand-new dodgems track, new fully adapted construction machinery and an exciting inflatable Jumbo Slide.
These attractions give families even more opportunities to enjoy a fun-filled day out. They also reflect Diggerland’s commitment to introducing new experiences for visitors of different ages and abilities.
New outdoor spaces create more room to relax
The investment hasn’t stopped at rides and attractions. Diggerland Devon has also improved its outdoor spaces with support from Mid Devon District Council.
The park received nearly £9,000 through the council’s ‘Improving our Visitor Economy Assets’ grant scheme. The funding supported investment in five new patio areas across the park.
The planned improvements include benches, shade and shrubs. These features help create more comfortable spaces where visitors can sit, relax and spend time together.
It’s another positive step towards improving the overall visitor experience. It also demonstrates how investment in facilities can make a family day out even more enjoyable.
A dedicated team makes the difference
Behind every successful attraction is a team of people working hard to make visitors’ experiences special.
At Diggerland Devon, the team continues to develop the park under the management of General Manager Gavin Shuman and Office Manager Angie Blackford.
Their leadership, enthusiasm and commitment have helped drive the park forward. Alongside the wider team, they work hard to introduce improvements and deliver memorable experiences for guests.
A Diggerland spokesperson said:
“We are absolutely delighted and incredibly proud to have reached the final of the Devon Tourism Awards. More than anything, we are proud of our team at Diggerland Devon and the way everyone has worked together to continue developing the park and delivering a fantastic experience for our guests.
“Particular credit must go to our team under the new management of General Manager Gavin Shuman and Office Manager Angie Blackford. Their leadership, enthusiasm and commitment, alongside the hard work of the wider team, have helped drive the park forward. It is wonderful to see those collective efforts recognised.”
The spokesperson added:
“We are always looking at ways to improve what we offer, introduce new experiences and ensure Diggerland remains a fun, inclusive and memorable day out for families and visitors of all ages. To be recognised among Devon’s leading visitor attractions is something we are extremely proud of.”
Maintaining high standards as a Devon visitor attraction
Diggerland Devon is also a longstanding member of Devon’s Top Attractions. This organisation represents some of the county’s leading visitor experiences.
Membership involves an extensive judging process. This includes assessment by a panel and mystery shopper visits.
The process helps ensure attractions meet and maintain high standards. It also provides reassurance that members remain committed to quality, professionalism and visitor experience.
Diggerland’s continued membership reflects its dedication to maintaining these standards. Meanwhile, ongoing investment helps the park continue improving its facilities and attractions.
What’s next after the Devon Tourism Awards 2026?
The Devon Tourism Awards 2026 ceremony is an exciting date in the calendar for attractions across the county.
The Small Visitor Attraction of the Year category is just one of many awards recognising excellence in Devon’s tourism industry. Other categories include Accessible and Inclusive Tourism, Active & Learning Experience, Café/Tearoom of the Year, Dog Friendly Business of the Year, Holiday Park of the Year, Large Visitor Attraction of the Year and Tourism Event/Festival of the Year.
For Diggerland Devon, reaching the final is already a fantastic achievement. It recognises the collective efforts of the team and the park’s ongoing commitment to improvement.
The team now looks forward to celebrating alongside fellow tourism businesses at the December ceremony. Of course, everyone will be hoping for a winning result!
Plan your next family day out at Diggerland Devon
Whether you’re looking for a unique theme park in Devon or an exciting family day out, Diggerland offers an experience unlike any other.
Visitors can get hands-on with real construction machinery, operate diggers and dumper trucks, and enjoy thrilling rides such as Spindizzy and Skyshuttle.
With new attractions, improved facilities and plenty of opportunities for family fun, there’s lots to discover.
Find out more about Diggerland Devon, explore the attractions and plan your next visit!
book diggerland admission ticketsAll information correct as of November 2026.
