The Automobile Assoication (AA) have awarded the Macdonald Pittodrie House Hotel a prestigious new star, launching it into the luxury four-star category.
The historic 27-bedroom hotel is mid-way through an intensive 12-month programme of investment – not just in the building and its fabric and fittings, but also in its employees. The accolade was secured in recognition of both the hotel’s exceptionally high standards of service, focus on training, sensitivity of refurbishment and facilities, and the award reinforces the company’s position as AA Hotel Group of the Year.
Phase one of the refurbishment has been already been completed, with the public areas, including the reception, lounge bar and restaurant, redecorated to create a stylish and relaxing environment for guests. Following approval from Heritage Scotland, the listed building’s roof is currently being overhauled at a cost of in excess of £200,000, a process that should be completed by Spring 2008. The final phase, which will involve the refurbishment of the ballroom, billiard room and remaining 16 bedrooms is expected to begin in the coming months.
Its new status reinforces the group’s approach to driving standards and quality within the four and five-star market, and the quality service and range of facilities on offer to both business and leisure guests.
“Inspections over the last few years have witnessed the Macdonald Pittodrie House Hotel develop excellent all round standards of service and investment,” said AA national account executive Gordon Cartwright. “The award of four stars in any hotel signifies a landmark in its development. In the case of Pittodrie House, this new four-star grading provides an accurate picture of a destination hotel that is seriously committed to providing a memorable experience for its guests.”
Built in 1480, Pittodrie House is one of Scotland’s most historic hotels. Located on the outskirts of Aberdeen, amid a 2,000-acre estate, the venue still retains many of its original features, such as a wheel stair in the south east section of the building, gun loops, stone sinks and fireplaces.
Peter Sangster, general manager at Macdonald Pittodrie House, was unsurprisingly delighted with the award. “This is a tremendous accolade for the Macdonald Pittodrie House and can be attributed not only to the investment made to the property in recent years, but to the continuing hard work, enthusiasm and dedication of the team,” he said.
