The wait is almost over. With just days to go, The Independent is delighted to reveal the venue for its inaugural Independent Travel Awards 2026.
Taking place on Tuesday 8 September 2026, the first Independent Travel Awards will be held at the magnificent Kimpton Fitzroy London, in the heart of Bloomsbury overlooking leafy Russell Square.
The first Independent Travel Awards will take place at the iconic Kimpton Fitzroy London, a landmark hotel blending grand historic architecture with contemporary design. Guests will gather in the hotel’s gorgeous Palm Court and move on through to the Grade II-listed ballroom, with its double-height ceiling, original architectural details, full-length windows and mezzanine gallery providing a spectacular setting for the first Independent Travel Awards
Paul Finch, Head of Travel, The Independent, said: “We are delighted to be hosting the Independent Travel Awards 2026 at the magnificent Kimpton Fitzroy, a truly exceptional setting in which to celebrate the companies and destinations that have captured the hearts of our readers. Throughout the year, our team has worked tirelessly to inspire and inform our audience, bringing new and exciting travel experiences to life through insightful editorial and engaging video content. The Independent Travel Awards are a wonderful opportunity to recognise the brands, destinations and experiences that have resonated most strongly with our readers. We’re thrilled to celebrate their achievements and, most importantly, discover who our audience has chosen as their favourites this year.”
Unlike traditional industry awards, The Independent Travel Awards are voted for entirely by The Independent’s readers – an adventurous, discerning and passionate community of travellers.
The awards give readers the opportunity to have their say on what matters most when they travel, from the holiday companies they trust and the destinations they return to time and again, to the hidden gems and experiences they believe deserve greater recognition.
The awards follow a major reader survey inviting Independent audiences to share the destinations they love and the companies that help them get there. Whether it is a trusted holiday cottage provider, an underrated city-break destination or a favourite day out, the awards are designed to reflect the real travel choices and passions of Independent readers.
Readers were also given the chance to win one of 12 incredible travel prizes, including a week-long all-inclusive trip to Jamaica and an 11-night small-ship cruise.
The inaugural awards will reveal which destinations, travel companies and experiences have won the backing of Independent readers, celebrating the very best of travel through the eyes of the people who experience it.
