A Pembrokeshire hotel was given three Red Stars at the 2024 AA Hospitality Awards last night (Monday, September 23).

Penally Abbey in Tenby was presented the award at the JW Marriott Grosvenor House in London and was hosted by AA Hotel and Hospitality Services.

The event was attended by 900 guests and celebrated the most outstanding hotels, spas, restaurants, Inns and B&Bs in the UK.

Managing Director at AA Media, Simon Numphud said: “This incredible celebration is a true testament to the strength and innovation within our industry.

“The dedication and excellence demonstrated by all the hospitality teams have been nothing short of inspiring. 

“Congratulations to all the winners, nominees, and new Rosette holders for their remarkable contributions.”

Radio broadcaster Angellica Bell presented awards across 16 categories such as AA Restaurant of the Year, AA Hotel of the Year and the AA Sustainable Award, reflecting the industry’s commitment to environmental responsibility.

Other winners from Wales included:

  • Restaurants of the Year - Thomas by Tom Simmons, Cardiff
  • Hotels of the Year – The Parkgate Hotel, Cardiff
  • Wine Award- Plas Dinas Country House, Gwynedd
  • New 3 Rosettes – The Fanny Talbot, Gwynedd

Tom Aikens was AA Chef of the Year.Tom Aikens was AA Chef of the Year. (Image: AA Media) The AA Chef of the Year was won by Tom Aikens after 12 chefs were shortlisted for the award.

Tom has restaurants in four different countries, has published three cookery books, is a TV regular, and supports several charities.

Tom, from Muse, London, said: “There was such an amazing group of chefs up for this award.

“It’s truly incredible to have actually won it. It’s not just about me, it’s about the whole team. I’m absolutely thrilled, it’s fantastic.”

Meanwhile, the Lifetime Achievement Award was handed to former General Manager of The Lowry Hotel in Manchester and the Outstanding Contribution Award was given to former General Manager of Whatley Manor Hotel & Spa, Sue Williams.

The full list of the 2024 AA Hospitality Awards winners can be found on the AA’s Rated Trips website.

All restaurant award winners and new Rosette holders will feature in the 31st edition of the AA Restaurant Guide 2025.

The AA Hospitality Awards was sponsored by: RAK Porcelain, People 1st International, Sealy Beds, Cobra, Bibendum Wines, VANITY GROUP, Entegra, eviivo, Sky Business, Taittinger, Chabé, Wellocks, The Fine Bedding Company, Clockwork Marketing, RAW Charging and Taylors of Harrogate.

The AA first introduced the star rating scheme in 1908 and have continued to shine a spotlight on individuals and establishments who consistently deliver excellence to their guests.

This year the AA is celebrating 116 years of recognising excellence in hospitality.