Sunnyside Guest House in Southport has struck Gold – twice – after being named double winners at the annual VisitEngland Awards for Excellence 2025.
The multi award-winning venue on Bath Street in Southport town centre is now officially the best guest house in England after winning the Gold Award for B&B of the Year.
Owners Anthony and Larissa Duffey were also invited on stage to collect the Gold Awards for Ethical, Responsible & Sustainable Tourism Business of the Year.
The prestigious ceremony took place at the Brighton Dome Corn Exchange last night (Wednesday 4th June 2025).
Anthony and Larissa Duffey said:
“Wow… we’re still taking it all in!
“We’re absolutely thrilled, and a bit emotional, to share that we won TWO Gold Awards at the VisitEngland Awards for Excellence 2025.
“B&B of the Year and Ethical, Responsible & Sustainable Tourism Business of the Year
“To be recognised on a national level for doing what we love is just incredible.
“We honestly never expected to come home with two Golds!
“A huge thank you to everyone who’s supported us; our wonderful guests, our local community in Southport, friends, family… you’ve all played a part in this, and we’re so grateful.
“We’re feeling very proud, very thankful. A big thank to Alan Adams for coming along to support us along with the incredible support from the other Liverpool City Region finalists.”
Sunnyside Guest House is run by husband and wife duo Anthony and Larissa Duffey and is built on a mantra of responsible, caring and sustainable tourism.
It’s a shining example of how a small tourism business can deliver both outstanding hospitality and an ethical, environmentally conscious experience, all while keeping prices accessible.
From hand-baked cakes on arrival to their eco-conscious operations, everything about the guest house is thoughtful.
Located just minutes from Southport’s scenic seafront, Sunnyside blends boutique charm with purposeful choices.
Guests enjoy breakfasts made with local free-range produce, honey from their own beehive, and artwork from Southport’s creative community displayed throughout the house.
“I think we’re one of the few B&Bs in the country to have our very own beehive!” said Anthony.
“We want people to feel genuinely looked after,” adds Larissa Duffey.
“We want to show that tourism can be beautiful, kind, and sustainable, without costing the earth.”
The duo, alongside the head of the household – their baby Margot – pride themselves on being able to represent Southport on a national stage.
Anthony said: “At a time when compassion and connection matter more than ever – especially in Southport – our approach is resonating not just with guests, but now at the highest levels of the tourism industry.
“We were deeply moved, like many others, by the events of last summer but what followed was a quiet strength.
“Neighbours supporting each other, small acts of kindness, and a renewed sense of togetherness. That’s the spirit we try to reflect here at Sunnyside.”
Sunnyside was crowned B&B of the Year at the Liverpool City Region Tourism Awards earlier this year.
Out of more than 1,800 entries, only a handful of businesses reached the top three across each category in the VisitEngland Awards.
The VisitEngland Awards for Excellence are the most prestigious in the English tourism sector, celebrating outstanding service, innovation, and sustainable practices.
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