Grove of Narberth, the late architect Thierry Despont and pioneering Scottish hotelier James Thomson were among those recognised at the 2024 Independent Hotel Show Awards, in partnership with Preferred Hotels & Resorts.

The awards took place as part of the 12th edition of the Independent Hotel Show, in partnership with James Hallam, which brings together the independent, luxury and boutique hotel community for two busy days of networking, learning and new product discovery.

The winners were:

• Hotel Design of the Year – The Beaumont by Thierry Despont
• Hotel Rising Star - Nikola Mazurek, Event Sales Executive, South Place Hotel
• Independent Hotel of the Year – Grove of Narberth
• Outstanding Contribution to the Industry – James Thomson

Karen de Koning, General Manager of Grove of Narbeth, commented: “We’re absolutely blown away to have won this award. It’s a testament to all the hard work our team have put in over the year and all the hard work they put in every day delivering experiences and memories.”  

James Thomson, Owner of Prestonfield House Hotel and The Witchery by the Castle, was recognised for his Outstanding Contribution to the hotel industry and commented: “It’s very humbling to receive an award from your peers because there is so much talent in hospitality and tourism. I’m shocked and totally humbled. It’s very much a people industry and there are so many amazing people in it.

“We couldn’t be what we are without our amazing suppliers so shows like this are amazing because we can see some of our own suppliers we haven’t seen for a while as well as meeting new suppliers and looking forward to the future.”

Nikola Mazurek, Event Sales Executive, South Place Hotel and winner of Rising Star commented: “I feel extremely grateful to the whole team at the Independent Hotel Show. Thanks so much, I feel very blessed to have the support of my team at South Place Hotel and I’m looking forward to the future!”

The Independent Hotel Show will return to Olympia London on 6-7 October 2025, find out more at independenthotelshow.co.uk.