Culloden Estate & Spa, one of Hastings Hotels’ five-star properties, has been announced the winner of AA Hotel of the Year for Northern Ireland at the prestigious AA Hospitality Awards 2026, which took place at JW Marriott Grosvenor House, London last night.
Over 1,000 industry professionals gathered to celebrate excellence across the UK hospitality landscape with the AA Hospitality Awards recognising the very best of British hospitality, shining a spotlight on the businesses and people that deliver outstanding guest experiences, exceptional service and genuine passion for their craft.
As Culloden Estate & Spa celebrates its 150th anniversary this year, the hotel has marked the occasion with the completion of a £620,000 investment designed to further elevate the luxury guest experience. This includes a refined refurbishment of guest rooms, featuring elegant new interiors, enhanced furnishings and luxurious bathroom upgrades. Meanwhile, the historic Ailsa Suite, a private dining room boasting stunning views across the estate and lough, has been thoughtfully transformed to reflect the architecture and heritage of the original 1876 building, creating a sophisticated setting for meetings, private dining and special occasions. In addition, The Spa at Culloden has benefited from significant improvements to its interiors and fitness facilities, ensuring its wellness offering continues to meet the highest standards of quality and guest experience.
This award comes a year after the hotel’s flagship restaurant, Vespers, was awarded two AA Rosettes, recognising its blend of classic and contemporary dining and exceptional service.
Set within 12 acres of secluded gardens, the Culloden Estate & Spa combines countryside tranquillity and panoramic views with convenient access to Belfast city centre. Rich in heritage, the property was originally built as a palace for the Bishops of Down before being transformed into a luxury hotel in the 20th century. Today, with 98 individually designed rooms and suites, award-winning dining, a renowned destination spa and an ongoing commitment to exceptional service and investment, the Culloden remains one of Northern Ireland’s most distinguished luxury hotels.
Cormac Fadden, General Manager of Culloden Estate & Spa commented:
“We are incredibly proud to be named AA Hotel of the Year for Northern Ireland at the AA Hospitality Awards 2026. Receiving this prestigious accolade is a true reflection of the passion and dedication of our entire team, who work tirelessly to create exceptional and memorable experiences for every guest while upholding the outstanding service standards for which the Culloden is renowned. It is a true honour to have this commitment, care and attention to detail recognised at an event that celebrates the very best of British and Northern Irish hospitality.”
Simon Numphud, Managing Director of AA Hotel & Hospitality Services said:
“Congratulations to Culloden Estate & Spa on being named AA Hotel of the Year for Northern Ireland at the AA Hospitality Awards 2026. Our annual Awards celebrate the businesses and people that set the standard for the industry across the UK, and Culloden Estate & Spa is a brilliant example of a team that deliver true hospitality for their guests. Their commitment to delivering exceptional experiences is exactly what these awards set out to celebrate. A truly deserved recognition of their hard work, commitment and love for what they do.”
For more details, visit cullodenestateandspa.com.