Lindores Stay, Ride, Relax and Old Course Hotel, Resort & Spa win at the Thistle Awards

The Central and East Thistle Awards took place at the Sheraton Grand in Edinburgh last night (21 September). The red carpet was rolled out and those shortlisted for the awards were able to celebrate their achievements in the tourism industry.

The Scottish Thistle Awards, with headline sponsors Johnstons of Elgin, celebrate the very best of the tourism and events industry, which is worth £11.5 billion to the Scottish economy.  

2023 saw more than 600 entries submitted, including almost 1200 nominations from members of the public. Entering the awards give hotels, restaurants, B&Bs, visitor attractions and individuals the opportunity to earn the recognition they deserve in the part they play in making Scotland such a fantastic place to visit.

Best Self Catering Accommodation Experience

Lindores Stay, Ride, Relax – Newburgh, Fife  

Lindores, Stay, Ride, Relax near Newburgh was named Best Self Catering Accommodation Experience.

They offer a private hot tub in each luxury home, their dog-friendly rural retreats offer the perfect romantic getaway or action packed family break.

The luxury rural retreat was described by judges as a “truly circular model” of an outstanding agritourism business with responsible tourism at its heart.

Tourism & Hospitality Employer of the Year

Old Course Hotel, Resort & Spa, St Andrews, Fife 

Old Course Hotel, Resort & Spa in St Andrews was named Tourism & Hospitality Employer of the Year. This award celebrates employers who are showcasing tourism, hospitality and events as an exciting career path and inspiring the next generation. 

The luxury 5-Star property is situated on the 17th hole of the Old Course in St Andrews and includes a spa, fitness centre, eight restaurants and bars, The Duke’s Championship Golf Course, as well as a large selection of wedding and events spaces.  

Judges commended the Old Course Hotel, Resort & Spa for its wide range of initiatives to recruit, retain and develop its workforce that include graduate apprenticeship and talent development programmes.