Scottish Hotel Awards – Biggest Night of the Year for Scotland’s Hotels

Brilliant evening last night at the Crowne Plaza in Glasgow 2013, which saw an array of stellar hotels crowned with the jewels that their hard work more than deserves. It was an extravaganza where the big hitters were recognised, but also some unheralded and essential talents who had a rare chance to shine in the limelight. It was also a night that for us showed off the best of good old Scottish hospitality and reaffirmed our faith as writers that Scotland boasts a rich treasure of superb hotels.

The biggest winner was the Grand Central Hotel. Opened in 2010 after a £20 million refurbishment this Glaswegian landmark won Hotel of the Year at the Scottish Hotel Awards 10^th anniversary gold-themed gala dinner.

Gary McLean Quin, Chairman of Judges, summed it up perfectly: “There were again many strong contenders for Scottish Hotel of the Year but the Grand Central stood out because of its all-round performance, passionate leadership, staff management and wise future development. It was great to see the old building re-open a few years ago and its plans are marvellous for Glasgow.”

Over 500 hoteliers and guests were present and we were lucky to be seated with Scottish Government Minister for External Affairs and International Development Humza Yousaf, a Glasgow MSP, who shares our passion for Scotland and the future of Scottish tourism.

The sheer scope of the awards impressed us most in our first year attending. “More hotels took part in the Awards than ever before, ranging from Michelin starred to budget establishments,” Gary McLean Quin added. “These awards focus mostly on people excellence and people management.”

Other big winners on the night included Bill Burnett of the Holiday Inn Aberdeen West (Manager of the Year), Jody Marshall of Ballathie House (Rising Star Hotelier of the Year) while Laurence and Katie Mackay collected the Country House Hotel trophy for Tiroran House on the Isle of Mull.

Restaurant of the Year went to Hadrian’s at The Balmoral in Edinburgh while F&B Hotel of the Year was The Caledonian Waldorf Astoria and the F&B Group title went to Costley & Costley of Ayrshire.

Given their tough year to date rapturous applause greeted the naming of the Isle of Arran as Destination of the Year on a night when the island’s Douglas Hotel, Glenisle Hotel and (of course!) perennial award winner The Auchrannie all walked off with deserved gongs.

We left as the party was only really getting started, safe in the knowledge that one of Scotland’s key economic sectors looks like it is resolutely back on form with plenty of optimism in the air as we head towards 2014, which is set to be a massive year for tourism and Scotland in general.

Further Award Listing Highlights:

Budget Hotel – CitizenM, Glasgow

Luxury Hotel – Inverlochy Castle, Torlundy, Fort William

Business Hotel — Jurys Inn, Glasgow

City Hotel – Hilton Garden Inn, Aberdeen City Centre

Rural Hotel – Inver Lodge, Lochinver, Sutherland

Events Hotel – Grand Central, Glasgow

Spa Team – One Spa at the Sheraton Grand, Edinburgh

Wedding Hotel – Balbirnie House, Markinch

Family Hotel – Crieff Hydro