South Wales Guide, founded in Penarth, was named Best Independent Destination Guide 2026 in the SME News UK Enterprise Awards.
The digital platform, founded just over a year ago by Steve Hull, covers the South Wales area from Chepstow to Tenby and as far north as Brecon.
It features a directory of more than 400 businesses and offers inspiration for days out, events, food, and accommodation.
Mr Hull said: “I started South Wales Guide because the region deserved a proper independent guide, written by people who actually know it.
“National recognition is a real boost for everyone involved, however the real credit belongs to the hundreds of small tourism and hospitality businesses across South Wales who make the region worth writing about in the first place.”
Funded by advertising rather than listing fees, the guide keeps its business listings free, with optional marketing packages starting at £95 per year.
Since its launch in summer 2025, it has attracted more than 11,400 followers across its social media channels.
The UK Enterprise Awards are organised by SME News, a business publication under UK publisher AI Global Media.
Entries are free, and winners are selected by an independent research panel based on criteria including innovation, growth, online reputation, and customer feedback.
South Wales Guide is run by a small team, including a dedicated blog writer and marketing specialists WCS Agency, who support its social media growth.
The platform offers advertising opportunities for businesses, including enhanced listings, editorial features, email marketing, and social media campaigns.
The business describes themselves as a “directory and lifestyle resource that showcases the best of the region for residents and visitors alike.”
