THREE Scottish hotels located in Aberdeenshire and the Highlands have been shortlisted at the 2024 AA Hospitality Awards.
Featuring places across the UK like the Boat Restaurant in Staffordshire and Y Talbot in Ceredigion, the shortlist aims to showcase the "exceptional finalists" at this year's awards.
Introducing the shortlist, Simon Numphud, Managing Director at AA Hotel & Hospitality Services said: “We’re thrilled to announce the highly anticipated shortlists for seven of our esteemed AA Hospitality Awards.
"This year’s exceptional finalists show the highest standards of dedication and innovation, reflecting the latest 2024 trends that have shaped the UK hospitality landscape.
"From sustainable practices to tech-driven customer experiences, these remarkable individuals and establishments are a testament to the relentless pursuit of excellence in our dynamic and ever-evolving industry."
Why these Scottish hotels were shortlisted at the AA Hospitality Awards
The three Scottish hotels shortlisted at the 2024 AA Hospitality Awards were Mingary Castle in the Highlands as well as Kildrummy Inn and The Auld Kirk in Aberdeenshire.
Discussing Mingary Castle (Restaurant With Rooms category), the inspector said: "Built within the 13th-century curtain walls of Mingary Castle, this restaurant with rooms is unique and individual, with high levels of quality, charm and character.
"Luxurious feature bedrooms and en suites combine with a stunning restaurant showcasing great technical skill. Guests can explore the top of the curtain wall or climb down the staircase towards the sea and the viewing platform to take in the Isle of Mull just across the water."
Kildrummy Inn (Inn of the Year), which has a Michelin star, was said to be the "quintessential Scottish getaway" with the inspector writing: "Located in the heart of rural Aberdeenshire, Kildrummy Inn is the perfect base for touring the Grampian Mountains and beyond.
"This family-run, traditional inn combines a harmonious blend of luxury heritage, tradition and nature to form the quintessential Scottish getaway.
"The inn provides four charming bedrooms – all are en suite and feature TVs, DVD players and free WiFi. The lounge bar, with a roaring fire and a good selection of beers and whiskies, is a great place in which to while away the time.
"No visit would be complete without sampling the food on offer, with indulgent, award-winning cuisine capturing the essence of the dramatic Cairngorms landscape."
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Last but certainly not least is The Auld Kirk (B&B of the Year) which was said to cleverly offer a "blend of original features and contemporary design".
The inspector said: "This Victorian Scottish Free Church building has been carefully converted into a warm guest house and is now hosted by welcoming proprietors Helen & Kevin.
"Many original features of the kirk have been restored and incorporated in the design, and all seven purpose-built rooms are situated on the first floor, accessed by a wide staircase from the large entrance hallway.
"Excellent homecooked breakfasts, using the finest local produce, are served at the table in the characterful dining room."
All three of these hotels received glowing reviews on Tripadvisor with Mingary Castle, Kildrummy Inn and The Auld Kirk receiving 5/5 and 4.5/5 ratings from visitors.
The AA Hospitality Awards 2024 will take place on Monday, September 23.
