Dormy House in Broadway, The Cotswolds, has scooped the top hotel award in England, becoming AA Hotel of the Year 2014-15.
“This award is the AA’s ultimate accolade for hotels recognised as being outstanding examples in their field,” said TV presenter Fiona Bruce. “This much-loved and privately-owned hotel has undergone a complete transformation. Great hospitality and food define the hotel of the year for England.”
The award, sponsored by Temple Spa, was announced on Monday night at a glittering ceremony in London.
“AA Hotel of the Year is one of the UK’s most prestigious hospitality awards and we were thrilled even to reach the final shortlist, let alone be given the title,” says Andrew Grahame, CEO of Dormy House. “The AA Hotel of the Year award recognises the huge effort everyone at the hotel has made since it re-opened. We’ve also had unending support from the Sorensen family, who have been involved throughout.
“Winning Hotel of the Year for England in the AA Hospitality Awards so soon after opening the new hotel and spa is a dream come true.”
Often referred to as the industry’s Oscars, the AA Hospitality Awards recognise the finest of the thousands of British hotels with an AA rating. Only one establishment in England is awarded Hotel of the Year. Previous winners include Lime Wood in the New Forest and Gravetye Manor in Sussex.
The 17th-century, 40-room farmhouse was bought by the Sorensen family in 1977 and over 36 years has gained a loyal reputation for its warm country welcome. In 2013, the family invested in a multi-million pound refurbishment, with a complete interior redesign by London duo Todhunter Earle and a new destination spa by Sparcstudio.
“Our original aim, to be a beacon of modern, relaxed hospitality in the Cotswolds, has struck a note with visitors from all over the world. We have received fantastic reviews in national and international press and we aim to be known as one of the finest hotels in the UK. This award is a wonderful recognition that will help us achieve that goal.”
