Daniel Thwaites has been officially named Hotel Group of the Year at the prestigious AA Hospitality Awards 2025, held at the JW Marriott Grosvenor House in London.
The glittering black-tie ceremony, hosted by TV personality Vernon Kay, brought together more than 960 leading figures from across the UK’s hospitality industry to celebrate the very best in hotels, restaurants, inns, and spas.
This coveted national accolade recognises Daniel Thwaites’ outstanding commitment to quality, innovation, and guest experience across its portfolio of properties, cementing the company’s place among the most respected names in British hospitality.
A Decade of Growth and Excellence
An independently owned British company, Daniel Thwaites operates a portfolio of 10 hotels and 10 accredited inns across the UK, with a strong presence throughout the north of England.
Over the past ten years, the business has grown from a core of six hotels into a leading collection of premium properties, each offering exceptional hospitality, spa and conference facilities, and distinctive food and beverage experiences.
The group’s long-standing focus on craftsmanship, comfort, and character has made its hotels and inns popular with both business and leisure guests — a combination that continues to define its brand identity.
Langdale Chase Hotel: A Flagship of the Brand
A standout among the group’s portfolio is the Langdale Chase Hotel, a beautifully refurbished AA 5-Star hotel on the shores of Lake Windermere.
Featuring 30 individually designed bedrooms and suites, a 2 AA Rosette restaurant, and breath-taking lake views, the property embodies Daniel Thwaites’ dedication to balancing heritage with contemporary comfort.
The restoration of Langdale Chase is a clear reflection of the group’s approach: investing in quality, celebrating local craftsmanship, and enhancing the guest experience without compromising authenticity.
Recognition from the AA Judges
In selecting Daniel Thwaites as Hotel Group of the Year, the AA judging panel praised the company for its:
- Structured and consistent approach to development across the portfolio
- Exceptional attention to detail in design, operations, and service
- Commitment to sustainability, including its stated ambition to achieve carbon neutrality
- Investment in people, through extensive training and professional development initiatives
These programmes have created a culture where employees are motivated, skilled, and proud to deliver consistently high standards — something the AA noted as a key factor in the group’s success.
Commitment to Quality and Sustainability
Daniel Thwaites’ focus on long-term sustainability is woven into every part of the business. The company continues to reduce its environmental impact through energy-efficient technologies, responsible sourcing, and waste-reduction initiatives, all part of its clear ambition to become carbon neutral.
Equally, the group’s training and development programmes ensure that every member of staff has the opportunity to build a rewarding career. This investment in people has fostered loyalty and excellence across every department, ensuring guests enjoy a seamless experience at every property.
A Trusted Name in British Hospitality
From country-house hotels and city properties to traditional coaching inns, every Daniel Thwaites location shares a common thread: authentic, welcoming hospitality delivered to an exceptional standard.
This consistency has made the brand a trusted choice for:
- Leisure guests, seeking memorable stays in distinctive locations;
- Corporate clients, looking for professional conference and meeting facilities; and
- Event planners, who value the group’s reliability and high-quality service delivery.
Each property within the collection combines individuality with the assurance of a group-wide standard of excellence — something few operators achieve at this scale.
A Celebration of British Heritage
With roots dating back to 1807, Daniel Thwaites remains one of the UK’s few truly independent, family-owned hospitality businesses. Its success is built on a deep respect for British tradition, quality craftsmanship, and the local communities it serves.
The group’s evolution from a regional brewery into a nationally recognised hotel and inn operator is testament to its ability to adapt while preserving its core values: warmth, integrity, and personal service.
Industry-Wide Impact
Winning the AA Hotel Group of the Year 2025 award reinforces Daniel Thwaites’ reputation as a leader in UK hospitality. It sends a clear message to the industry that independent ownership and long-term thinking can still outperform larger chains when guided by a clear ethos and unwavering attention to guest experience.
The recognition also underscores the company’s significant contribution to regional tourism, supporting local employment and championing sustainability within its operations.
Click here to view the a few of the Daniel Thwaites' venues hosted through Venuefinder.