Sunnyside Bed and Breakfast in Southport has been named the best in the UK at the VisitEngland Awards for Excellence 2025. The ten-bedroom guest house, run by Anthony and Larissa Duffey, won Gold in the B&B and Guest House of the Year category, beating competition from across the country.
The establishment also received Gold in the Ethical, Responsible and Sustainable Tourism Award. The Duffeys have built a loyal clientele through personal touches, including homemade cakes and jam baked by Larissa, and honey produced by Anthony. 'We believe the personal touch and emphasis on quality are what make us unique,' Anthony told the ECHO.
The couple met in high school when Larissa was on a student exchange from Brazil. Anthony started the business 15 years ago, and they later reunited while he was on holiday in Rio de Janeiro. 'The business is full throttle,' Anthony said. 'It is a labour of love.'
Larissa added that guests often return because of family memories associated with Southport. 'Once they come, they come back,' she said. The Titanic Hotel on Regent Road also received Bronze in the Large Hotel of the Year category. VisitEngland Director Andrew Stokes congratulated all winners, noting the fierce competition.
