The best businesses in the county from pubs to spas and even yoga studios have been announced in the annual Muddy Stiletto awards.

Winners were chosen via a public vote with the awards celebrating the “plucky local businesses and high streets by championing originality, creativity and quality”.

We have taken a look at the establishments which reigned victorious spanning across Kent.

Best Destination Pub

The Samuel Palmer, Shoreham

This gastro boozer has been named the best countryside pub in the county by its loyal customers.

Found in Church Street, Shoreham near Sevenoaks, the inn has its own vineyard, and the menu offers dishes such as stuffed courgette flowers and caramelised buttermilk tart.

On Instagram, bosses said: “We are absolutely thrilled to have been awarded the title of Best Destination Pub in Kent.

“Thank you so much to you all for your amazing support.

“We were already thrilled to have made it into the top 5 amongst such illustrious company, but to have had your backing to take us all the way to the top spot, has really blown us away.

“With just 14 months under our belt so far, our team and offering has gone from strength to strength with our relaxed fine dining, moreish bar food, cocktails and perfect pints.

“We look forward to raising a glass (or two) with you all soon.”

Best Hotel/Inn

The Cave, Canterbury

Described as Kent’s “most luxurious” stay, The Cave has drawn in celebrities such as Jessie Nelson and Katie Price.

This hotel and spa boasts a Korean Cowgirl restaurant inside as well as its own Firepit dining area.

Opening in November 2019, it cost £12 million to develop and boasts its own chef, butler and a cinema screen.

The Cave rates four out of five on Tripadvisor with a recent reviewer calling it “absolutely fabulous”.

Best Restaurant

The Old Bank, Westerham

Already in the Michelin Guide, this fine dining spot has now been named the county's best restaurant.

Just off the A25, it is run by chef Adam Turley, who was named Kent Life Magazine’s 2020 Chef of the Year.

On Instagram, the team stated: “We’ve won Best Restaurant in the Muddy Stiletto Awards!

“Thank you to everyone who voted for us in this year’s awards - it means the world to us to have such loyal and supportive guests in our corner, and we can’t wait to welcome you for your next visit.”

The menu has interesting combinations such as Roasted Veal Sweetbread and Cornish Crab and Apple Ravioli.

Best Boutique Stay

The Marquis of Granby, Alkham

This business has been commended for its 10 rooms in the village of Alkham near Folkestone.

Also a gastro pub, The Marquis describes itself as a “true country retreat”.

Owners Contemporary Pubs - who also run The Tiger in Stowting - noted their achievement on social media, saying: “A big thank you to all our guests who voted for us - we’re over the moon to be recognised as much for our beautiful bedrooms as our fantastic food.

“Well done to the entire team.”

Best Bar

Porto Wine Bar, Whitstable

Chosen as the best spot for a late night drink, this bar has over 60 wines available to its drinkers.

Located on Harbour Street in the seaside town, it also offers Portuguese snacks and a port and blue cheese sample menu.

Elated by the news which was shared on Porto’s Instagram, the bar posted: “Our beloved Porto Wine Bar has just been announced as the Best Bar in Kent by Muddy Stilettos.

“We couldn't be more thrilled and grateful for this incredible recognition.

“This achievement is a testament to our wonderful guests who have made Porto Wine Bar their go-to spot for amazing wines, delightful ambiance, and unforgettable experiences.

“Your support and loyalty have truly made us shine!

The team added: “We want to extend a heartfelt thank you to each and every one of you who has stepped through our doors, sipped on our carefully curated wines, and enjoyed the warm and inviting atmosphere we strive to create.

“Without your enthusiasm and love for great wine, we wouldn't be where we are today.

“Our dedicated team has worked tirelessly to ensure that Porto Wine Bar is not just a place to have a drink, but a destination where memories are made.”

Best Wedding Venue

The Orangery, Maidstone

Found in Turkey Court off the A20, The Orangery has its own lake and a waterfall.

The venue is pinned as a “rural oasis in an urban location” by promoters.

Best Day Spa

Sheldon Spa, Faversham

Voted as the best place to pamper yourself in Kent, Sheldon offers the use of an indoor heated swimming pool, Nordic sauna, and hot tub, as well as a comprehensive selection of beauty and holistic treatments.

It is located on Lees Court Road, Sheldwich and also has afternoon tea available to customers.

Best Family Attraction

Hever Castle and Gardens, Hever

This privately owned 13th Century castle is near Edenbridge and Anne Boleyn grew up there in the early 1500s.

History buffs can stay in the site’s bed and breakfast and families can enjoy attractions such as archery and jousting.

Best Café

Leo & Sage, Ashford

This café opened in August last year in Elwick Place.

When it welcomed its first customers, operations manager, Giulia Waddington told KentOnline: “I want the café to highlight the best of Kent produce and offer the aesthetic and feel of a London-style coffee shop.”

Best Theatre/Arts Venue

E M Forster Theatre, Tonbridge

This theatre is part of Tonbridge School, and hosts popular shows such as Legally Blonde, Shakespeare classics and performances from students.

Best Local Food/Drink Producer

Turners Cider, Marden

This family business based in the village of Marden, in the Weald makes “clean, light and refreshing” craft cider.

On Instagram, the company celebrated, exclaiming: “We’ve only gone and won!

“You’re looking at the Best Local Food & Drink Producer in Kent.

“But, we couldn’t have done it without all of you - our loyal customers, fans, and supporters!

“Thank you for helping champion our small, family business making our special cider with local apples.”

Best Farmshop/Deli

Groombridge Farm Shop, Groombridge

This store, specialising in local produce, sells online as well as in store.

It’s just outside Tunbridge Wells, and the team said on social media: “We are so excited to announce that we are winners of the Muddy Stiletto Awards 2023 for best Farm Shop/Deli in Kent.

“We would like to thank you all for taking the time to firstly nominate us and then vote, it really means a lot.”

Best Hair Salon

Blond-E Hair Salon, Sittingbourne

Found in Quartz Way, this hairdresser specialises in blonde balayage and highlights.

Owners said: “Huge thank you to all of our staff, clients, stockists and everyone that voted, shared and supported us.

“This means so much!”

Best Lifestyle Store

Rock Paper Scissors, Canterbury

Priding itself on selling “exquisite, handmade, ethical products” Rock Paper Scissors is in Stour Street.

It showcases local craftspeople by selling a range of gifts, homewear, fashion and jewellery products.

Best Florist

The Cove, Tunbridge Wells

More than just flower arrangements, this shop has a bar and holds floristry workshops.

On social media staff shared: “It’s only just sinking in!

“Thank you to all our amazing customers and the support you have given us over the last couple of weeks by voting for us.

“Having started from nothing during Covid, to having built a successful independent business that looks to celebrate creating amazing flower displays, bouquets and installations, we are super proud and so incredibly grateful to have won this award.”

Best Bookshop

The Classroom Children’s Bookshop, Westgate-on-Sea

This is a “bookshop built for children” and kids aged zero to five are allowed to climb on the bookshelves and use the in-house slide.

The business shared the news on Instagram and thanked its customers.

Best Art Gallery

Under the Rainbow Events, Bluewater, Dartford

This gallery aims to support up-and-coming artists.

The team said: “We did it!

“We are so proud and grateful to be crowned the Best Kent Gallery.

“Thank you to our wonderful team of artists who worked so hard with us for the past couple years.

“Thank you to our artists for exhibiting and trusting us.

“Thank you to everyone who visited and purchased our art.”

Best Beauty Salon

Beauty Lounge, Whitstable

This salon in Tankerton offers high-tech treatments such as pro nano-needling and Non Surgical Face Lift with electrical impulses.

On Facebook, owners said: “We really couldn’t be prouder right now to have this wonderful accolade.

“I really do have the best team behind me and they thoroughly deserve this recognition.”

Best Women’s Fashion

Tamarisk, Deal

Tamarisk sells vibrant fashion on Deal High Street.

It opened after owner Emma noticed a “need for fun, flattering, colourful clothes that didn't break the bank”.

Other winners are:

Best Bridal Store

Vicki’s Bridal Boutique, Tenterden

Best New Lifestyle Start Up

Raffman & Huckster, Tenterden

Best Jeweller

Fitzgerald Jewellers, Canterbury

Best Wedding Photographer

Victoria Green Photography, Tonbridge

Best Yoga/Pilates Studio

MyTime Pilates, Penshurst

Best Sustainable Lifestyle Business

Gaia Homeware, Folkestone

Best Fitness Instructor

Holly Finch, One Life Health & Fitness, Canterbury

Best Children’s Business

Kent Academy of Musical Theatre (Maidstone)