In addition, pub and hotel operator Daniel Thwaites was awarded the top accolade of Group of the Year at the awards, which recognise exceptional hotels, restaurants, spas, inns, and B&Bs, as well as the people behind them.
The George, owned by Butcombe Group, was recognised as AA Inn of the Year for England where inspectors praised it for its “wonderfully warm and engaging atmosphere.”
Special moment
General manager Linda Johnson and the team at the George said: “Winning and receiving this award will always be a special moment and the greatest award is the appreciation of the team. If you want to go far go together.”
Meanwhile, Rick Bailey, executive chairman at Daniel Thwaites said: “We’re truly honoured that Daniel Thwaites has won such a coveted award.
“It’s the ultimate recognition and testament to the whole team’s excellence and dedication to providing warm hospitality, and excellent food and experiences at one-of-a-kind properties in outstanding locations across the country.”
The awards featured 18 categories, including AA Chefs’ Chef of the Year, AA Sustainable Award, AA Spa Hotel of the Year and, brand new for 2025, the AA Rising Star Award.
A raft of operators also received AA rosettes with three rosettes being given to two pubs, the Kirkstyle Inn and Sportsman’s Rest, Northumberland, and the Greyhound, Beaconsfield, Buckinghamshire.
Creativity and resilience
All of 2025’s restaurant award winners and new Rosette holders are featured in the AA Restaurant Guide 2026. The guide showcases the very best restaurants across the UK.
AA Media managing director Simon Numphud, which runs the awards, praised the UK’s hospitality sector for its resilience and innovative spirit in 2025.
He said: “This celebration highlights the passion, creativity and resilience that define UK hospitality.
“The teams have turned challenges into opportunities, inspiring us with their innovation and dedication. Congratulations to all winners, nominees and new Rosette holders – your achievements deserve recognition today and set a shining example for the future of our industry.”
Organised by AA Hotel & Hospitality Services, the evening hosted more than 960 guests was hosted by television and radio personality Vernon Kay, at JW Marriott Grosvenor House.
