Wells Cathedral and The Loft Café have once again been recognised among Somerset's finest tourism destinations, with both securing finalist spots in the Bristol, Bath and Somerset Tourism Awards for the third consecutive year.

Wells Cathedral has been nominated in three prestigious categories, reflecting its role as a standout visitor attraction. The nominations include Dog Friendly Business of the Year and Tourism Event/Festival of the Year for its acclaimed Peace Doves installation by artist Peter Walker. The Loft Café, nestled within the Cathedral, has also been nominated in the Café & Tearoom of the Year category, highlighting its popularity with visitors and locals alike.

This recognition showcases Wells Cathedral's commitment to inclusivity, making the historic site accessible and welcoming to all – including four-legged visitors. The Cathedral has embraced dog-friendly initiatives, allowing pet owners to enjoy its stunning architecture and tranquil grounds.

The Peace Doves installation, held in May, brought the Cathedral to life with a breathtaking display of thousands of illuminated paper doves, each carrying messages of peace, hope, and love. Suspended above the Nave and set to music by composer David Harper, the artwork created a powerful and moving experience for visitors. Local schools and businesses were also invited to participate through a window display competition, adding a community-driven element to the event.

The installation featured a series of family-friendly events, including 'Story Time Under the Doves' sessions, where children enjoyed peace-themed stories, and interactive activity sheets allowing visitors to create their own Peace Doves. These additions fostered community engagement and encouraged people of all ages to reflect on the themes of peace and unity.

The awards ceremony, hosted by ITV's Ben McGrail, will take place on 5th December at Batch Country House. Finalists, including Wells Cathedral and The Loft Café, will be honoured with Gold, Silver, or Bronze awards, with the local community eagerly awaiting the outcome.

"We are incredibly proud to be recognised for the third year in a row," said Alexia James, Commercial Operations Director at Wells Cathedral. "These nominations highlight our ongoing efforts to make Wells a welcoming destination and to foster a sense of community through our events and initiatives."

With the awards just around the corner, Wells Cathedral is poised to continue its legacy as one of Somerset's premier attractions, celebrating its role in the community and the wider tourism landscape.