Kildrummy Inn has been named Best Hotel Experience at the 2025 Aberdeen City and Shire Thistle Awards – the second year running the four-bedroom hotel near Alford has taken the top hospitality prize in the region.
The family-run business was a finalist in three categories this year – Climate Action, Best Eating Experience, and Best Hotel Experience – and the win confirms its continued presence among the north-east’s leading operators.
Owners David and Sophie Littlewood run the inn with help from their children George and Evie when home from school and college. The business, which has four guest rooms, a whisky snug, a bar, and a private dining room, has its restaurant featured in the Michelin Guide and the property holds 5 Gold Stars from the AA.
“We’re absolutely delighted to win Best Hotel Experience for the second year running,” said David Littlewood. “To receive this recognition once was incredible, but to achieve it again back-to-back is really special. It shows that our commitment to high standards and warm, personal service is consistent – and it’s a huge honour for our whole team, many of whom live within just a few miles of Kildrummy. This award recognises the passion, dedication and care that goes into every detail – from the food on the plate to the welcome at the door.”
The inn sources produce locally, including venison from the Kildrummy Estate, vegetables from a Huntly allotment and its own garden, and dairy and meat from regional suppliers. The bar was built by a local joiner using repurposed church pews.
Recent sustainability measures include a 35% reduction in food waste over the past year, the replacement of gas with electric cooking, and a move away from single-use plastics. Most of the heating is now powered by stoves using windblown logs from the estate.
The team also supports hospitality training through kitchen and front-of-house apprenticeships. According to the owners, this allows young people in rural Donside to build hospitality careers close to home.
Planning permission has also been approved to convert an adjacent steading into five additional suites, including accessible accommodation with facilities for carers. A farm shop and courtyard-style market are also in development, with a focus on local makers and food producers.
“Kildrummy Inn is very much part of the community,” added Littlewood. “From sponsoring the Lonach Gathering to supporting local charities and working with neighbours on conservation of the River Don, we’re proud to play our part in Donside life. To receive this award again is wonderful recognition, and we can’t wait to keep building on this success.”
Judges commented that the inn shapes every part of the guest experience with care and intention. During the anonymous judging visit, they praised the welcome, the standard of the accommodation, and the food and service.