Central & East Thistle Award winners announced

The winners of the Central & East of Scotland Thistle Awards were announced last night at a ceremony at the Edinburgh International Conference Centre in Edinburgh.

On an evening focussed on celebrating the success, hard work and achievements of the industry, an international book festival, a zoo and a fine-dining restaurant nestled in the Cairngorms National Park were among the businesses crowned as regional champions for the 2025 programme.

The Scottish Thistle Awards, with headline sponsors Abbey: The Destination Experts, celebrate the very best of the tourism and events industry.  They have become an annual celebration of excellence, collaboration and innovation within one of the country’s most important sectors. 

Read on for the winner of each category. 

Image of the winners on stage celebrating. Credit: Connor Mollison

Image of the team behind The Grandtully at Ballintaggart.  

Best B&B or Guest House Experience

Derrybeg Bed or Breakfast

“We passionately believe that creating and providing outstanding Guest Experience is the key to making perfect memories for guests visiting Scotland, Pitlochry and Derrybeg Bed & Breakfast.”

Best Bar or Pub

The Grandtully Hotel

“To be recognised at this level is such an achievement for us and testament to the hard work of our team. Recognition at this level amidst such tough competition is a culmination of all the hard work of our team and our suppliers. Thank you!”

Best Hotel Experience

Murrayshall, Scone

“This acknowledgement reflects our unwavering commitment to delivering exceptional Scottish hospitality and creating memorable experiences for every guest who visits our beautiful Perthshire estate.”

Best Self-Catering or Unique Stay

The Bus Stop

“The Bus Stop team is delighted to win this award and attribute it to all the hard work that has gone in over the year. We continue to make The Bus Stop accessible to all and we are delighted to share our corner of East Lothian with as many people as possible!”

Image of The Bus Stop in Haddington. Credit: The Bus Stop

Image of a baby penguin and its mother at Edinburgh Zoo.

Best Visitor Attraction

Edinburgh Zoo

“We are incredibly proud that Edinburgh Zoo has been named the best visitor attraction in Central and East Scotland. Nature needs us all more than ever and we want everyone who visits the zoo to learn more about our natural world and how they can protect wildlife.”

Climate Action Award

Edinburgh Zoo

"Everyone at Edinburgh Zoo is dedicated to protecting nature, tackling climate change and saving wildlife. It is wonderful that the sustainability activities and innovations at the zoo have been recognised with the climate action award, including the installation of our new solar meadow.”

Outstanding Cultural Event or Festival

Edinburgh International Book Festival

“We’re honoured to be recognised for our work bringing authors and audiences together through a shared love of books, ideas, and conversation. This nomination is a testament to the creativity, care, and commitment of our team and the many brilliant partners we collaborate with across Scotland and beyond.”

Best Eating Experience

Killiecrankie House

"We strive to create a dining experience that is distinctive, delicious and fun. From the produce grown in the garden to the dishes served in our dining room, the whole experience wouldn’t be possible without the hard work of our excellent team."

Performance at the Edinburgh International Book Festival. Credit: Aly Wight

Image of Paul Nixon, General Manager of The Real Mary King's Close

Employer of the Year

The Real Mary King’s Close

“This award reflects the passion, care and creativity of our brilliant team — the heart of everything we do. From wellbeing to development, we’re committed to creating a workplace where everyone feels valued, supported and inspired.”

Individual of the Year

Paul Nixon – The Real Mary King’s Close

“It’s an incredible honour to be named Tourism Individual of the Year. I’m fortunate to work in an industry that’s all about people — their stories, experiences and communities. This award reflects the brilliant teams I’ve worked with and the passion that drives us all to keep making Scotland’s tourism offer world-class.”

Best Community Tourism & Events Initiative

Solsgirth Home Farm

“Thank you for this incredible honour! This is a testament to our amazing team at Solsgirth Home Farm; thank you to them, to our supportive friends, family, and local community.”

Innovation Award

HMS Unicorn

 “Through inclusive initiatives like Wavemakers, we’re proving historical ships can drive social change, inspire communities and offer transformative experiences. This honour strengthens our commitment to making heritage accessible, meaningful and future focused.”

Image of the team from Solsgirth Farm.

Image of Hugh Mackay. 

Inclusion Award

Camera Obscura & World of Illusion

“We are absolutely thrilled to win this award for Inclusivity. It’s a powerful recognition of the commitment our entire team has made to ensure Camera Obscura & World of Illusions is a place where everyone feels welcome, represented, and inspired.”

Rising Star Award

Hugh Mackay – Highland Experience Tours

“As a young man from the far north of Scotland, I’m honoured to be recognised in this moment that reflects my commitment to hospitality and tourism, and my passion for showcasing Scotland’s very best to every guest I have the privilege of welcoming on my tours.”

Best Outdoor or Adventure Experience

Newton Farm Holidays & Tours

“Every experience on our working family farm is designed to create lasting memories while helping visitors understand where their food comes from and what life in rural Scotland truly means.”

Image of the team from Newton Farm Holidays & Tours. Credit: Downfield Photography Studio