A Kenilworth theatre, a holiday let and a wedding venue have all been named among the best independent businesses in Warwickshire.

The Talisman Theatre, Hunters Lodge and Stoneleigh Abbey have all scooped prizes in the 'Muddy Awards 2023' which recognise the work of local independents.

Organised for the 10th time by online guide Muddy Stilettos Warwickshire and West, the awards recognised businesses across 27 different categories, with locals voting for their favourites.

All the regional winners will now be entered in a national competition, with entrants from 28 counties.

The Talisman beat off competition from the Belgrade Theatre in Coventry and The Swan Theatre in Stratford-upon-Avon to be named the region's best theatre and arts venue.

The world premiere of Pride & Prejudice is coming to the Talisman Theatre this June

Following the news, publicity manager Sharon Sully told Nub News: “We’re absolutely delighted to have been voted the Best Theatre & Arts Centre in the prestigious Muddy Stilettos Awards.

"This is testament to all of our members, patrons, volunteers and especially our theatre going audience who really got behind us and cast their votes.

"It’s a truly exciting time for our theatre right now.

"The new foyer space looking more refined as the building work comes together and we’re counting down the days until the opening Gala Night for our world premiere of Pride & Prejudice, written by Andrew Davies from his BBC screenplay.

"This really has shown to us what a great spirit there is behind us at the moment and we’re committed to putting the arts at the heart of our community.” 

Elsewhere, Stoneleigh Abbey scooped the prize for best wedding venue which means it is "no longer Warwickshire's best kept secret" - according to the venue's social media.

Hunters Lodge in Kenilworth was named best boutique stay, beating Mount Pleasant Barns in Warwick and Bower House in Shipston-on-Stour, among others.

Stoneleigh Abbey was named best wedding venue (image via Sheldon Bosley Knight)

Kenilworth had 11 nominations across 10 categories in this year's awards.

Muddy Stilettos said 800,000 votes were cast by locals in 2023.

Editor Laura Kearns said: "A massive thank you for taking the time to support your awesome local businesses this year – it was our biggest ever awards!

"And, whilst we wish every brilliant business nominated and voted for could make it through, there can only be one winner of each category of the Warwickshire & West Midlands Awards.

"Each regional winner will also be put forward for the National Muddy Awards to find the “best of the best” across all 28 Muddy counties. 

"Keep your peepers peeled for when we announce the National Finalists in the next few weeks!"

See the full list of winners here.