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The Express Gazette
Thursday, September 24, 2026

UK's Top Hotels and B&Bs Revealed in AA Hospitality Awards

Prestigious awards honor excellence in hospitality across the United Kingdom, with a Scottish castle and a Northern Ireland estate receiving top accolades.

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UK's Top Hotels and B&Bs Revealed in AA Hospitality Awards

The winners of the 2026 AA Hospitality Awards have been announced, celebrating the United Kingdom's finest hotels, bed and breakfasts, and inns. The accolades highlight establishments that go above and beyond to provide exceptional guest experiences.

Lys-Na-Greyne Country House in Aboyne, Aberdeenshire, was awarded AA B&B of the Year. This characterful country home, built in 1912 and situated along the River Dee, is surrounded by three acres of gardens and offers six en suite bedrooms.

Crossbasket Castle in High Blantyre, South Lanarkshire, was named Hotel of the Year for Scotland. This restored 16th-century castle offers 50 bedrooms and retains original features. Crossbasket Castle, in High Blantyre, was named Hotel of the Year for Scotland

In Northern Ireland, Culloden Estate & Spa in Holywood, County Down, received the Hotel of the Year award and was described as a "fairytale castle with a spa and lovely grounds." The estate overlooks Belfast Lough and features elegantly decorated rooms.

London's Hotel of the Year award went to The Emory in Belgravia, an establishment offering 61 suites and studios. Guests are provided with amenities including daily English breakfast, a stocked mini-bar, and a 24-hour butler service. The Emory took home the title of Hotel of the Year for London

For England, Calcot Manor & Spa in Tetbury, Gloucestershire, was recognized. This spa hotel, set within 220 acres of Cotswold countryside, offers various accommodation types, including treehouses and cottages, and was praised for its "unique luxury with award-winning spa and wellness facilities." Calcot Manor & Spa in Tetbury was recognised as Hotel of the Year for England

Porth Tocyn Hotel secured the award for Wales, noted for its "timeless charm" and coastal views near Abersoch. The three-star establishment provides a cozy stay overlooking the sea.

The Penny Bun in West Yorkshire was named Inn of the Year. This establishment is described as a "new-age inn" focused on climate change and offers five screen-free rooms for guests seeking an off-grid experience. The Penny Bun in West Yorkshire was recognised as Inn of the Year

Other notable awards included Old Course Hotel, Golf Resort & Spa in St Andrews for Best Spa Hotel of the Year. Firmdale Hotels in London received the AA Small Hotel Group of the Year award, and The Celtic Collection in Wales was recognized as Group of the Year.

Simon Numphud, managing director of AA Hotel & Hospitality Services, stated that the awards highlight establishments delivering memorable experiences and showcase the quality of hospitality across the UK. He congratulated all winners for their commitment to quality and service, which contributes to the reputation of British hospitality.


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