2025 Winners Announced!
We’re thrilled to reveal the winners of the Highlands and Islands Thistle Awards 2025, celebrated at a glittering awards ceremony and dinner held at the Drumossie Hotel, Inverness on Friday 3rd October.
These prestigious awards honour the very best of our region’s tourism and hospitality industry. They recognise excellence, innovation, and passion across the sector. From unforgettable visitor experiences to remarkable local initiatives, our winners represent the heart and soul of tourism in the Highlands and Islands.
We’re proud to partner with the Scottish Thistle Awards, and all category winners – except the Highland Ambassador – will now go on to represent our region as finalists at the Scottish Thistle Awards National Final in November 2025.
Explore the winners below and join us in celebrating the inspiring achievements of our local tourism champions.
Best Bar or Pub
Best B&B or Guest House Experience
Best Community Tourism & Events Initiative
Best Eating Experience
Best Hotel Experience
Best Outdoor or Adventure Experience
Best Self-Catering or Unique Stay
Best Visitor Attraction
Climate Action
Employer of the Year
Highland Ambassador
Marina Huggett
Individual of the Year
Roddy MacKay, Eilean Dorcha Festival
Innovation Award
Outstanding Cultural Event or Festival
Belladrum Tartan Heart Festival
Rising Star
Become Sponsors
The Awards are only possible with the valued support of our wonderful sponsors. Contact us to become a sponsor in 2025.
The Categories
Review the categories and criteria for the 2025 Awards.
Meet The Board
Take a minute to meet the amazing people behind the awards.
Gala Dinner
The evening reflects exemplary excellence achieved throughout the industry.
Responsible Tourism
Driving the sustainability of this picturesque corner of Scotland is the tourism and hospitality industry