The Aberdeen City and Shire Thistle Awards (ACSTA) are back for 2025, recognising the outstanding achievements of tourism and hospitality businesses across the region.
From boutique hotels and fine dining restaurants to B and Bs and cafes, from adventure tourism operators and cultural festivals to community initiatives and climate action, the awards showcase the very best that the North-east of Scotland has to offer.
As part of the prestigious Scottish Thistle Awards, ACSTA recognises businesses and individuals who go above and beyond to create exceptional visitor experiences.
With 15 categories spanning Best Hotel Experience, Best Eating Experience, Best Visitor Attraction and more, the awards shine a spotlight on the passion, innovation, and dedication that make Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire a world-class destination.
The Bay Fish and Chips Climate Action
ACSTA serves as a platform for businesses of all sizes to gain well-deserved recognition. In 2024, winners included Kildrummy Inn by Alford, which claimed the Best Hotel Experience 2024 award, and The Library at Douneside, by Tarland which was recognised for Best Eating Experience and The Bay Fish and Chips in Stonehaven for Climate Action.
The Tourism Individual of the Year award went to Alison Christie of Leonardo Hotels, celebrating her longstanding contribution to the sector, while Ellie Gray of The Chester Hotel was named MacRobert Trust Rising Star, reflecting the bright future of the region’s hospitality industry.
Stephen Gow, chairman of the Aberdeen City and Shire Thistle Awards
Stephen Gow, chairman of the Aberdeen City and Shire Thistle Awards, encourages businesses to seize this opportunity:
"The calibre of entrants we see every year is truly inspiring. These awards celebrate the hard work, passion, and dedication of those who make our region a fantastic place to visit. Whether you are a small independent business or a well-established enterprise, we urge you to enter and share your success story. ACSTA remains the only awards programme in the Scottish Thistle Awards family to conduct incognito visits, setting a high benchmark for fairness and credibility.
“Winning an ACSTA is not just a mark of prestige — it provides businesses with a competitive edge, industry recognition, and invaluable exposure. Finalists and winners will go on to compete at the national Scottish Thistle Awards, further amplifying their achievements on a national stage.”
Entries for the Aberdeen City and Shire Thistle Awards 2025 are now open and can be submitted via www.acsta.co.uk. The deadline for submissions is Monday 28 April 2025.
For more information, including category details and eligibility criteria, visit the www.acsta.co.uk or follow ACSTA on social media.
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Ellie Gray MacRobert Trust Rising Star