The Highlands and Islands celebrated a major success story as five of its regional champions were recognised at the national Scottish Thistle Awards ceremony held at the Hilton in Glasgow.
The winners of the Highlands & Islands Thistle Awards (HITA), who automatically progressed to the national stage, demonstrated the exceptional quality and world-class hospitality offered across the region by bringing home five prestigious national titles.
A delegation from the Highlands and Islands, including Chairman Callum Ross and members of the Board, attended the glittering ceremony to support the regional finalists.
Highlands and Islands national winners
The five businesses and individuals who secured national recognition are:
- Best Eating Experience: Ninth Wave Restaurant
- Employer of the Year: The Torridon
- Best Visitor Attraction: Highland Wildlife Park
- Best B&B or Guest House Experience: Ardtorna Luxury B&B
- The Silver Thistle Award: Marina Huggett (Regional Highland Ambassador winner)
The crowning achievement of the evening was Marina Huggett, the regional Highland Ambassador winner, receiving the coveted Silver Thistle Award, the night’s biggest accolade, for her outstanding contribution to Scottish tourism.
Callum Ross, Chairman of the Highlands & Islands Thistle Awards, expressed immense pride in the region’s performance:
“We are absolutely thrilled and incredibly proud of all our winners who represented the Highlands and Islands with such distinction at the National Scottish Thistle Awards.
“To secure five national titles, including the prestigious Silver Thistle Award for our wonderful Highland Ambassador, Marina Huggett, is a true testament to the dedication, hard work, and excellence within our region’s tourism and hospitality sector.
“These awards recognise the very best in Scotland, and this fantastic result proves that the Highlands and Islands continue to offer world-class experiences.
“Huge congratulations to Ninth Wave Restaurant, The Torridon, Highland Wildlife Park, Ardtorna Luxury B&B, and, of course, to Marina Huggett, your success is an inspiration to all.”
