Macdonald Pittodrie House Hotel is star struck

Staff at Macdonald Pittodrie House Hotel near Aberdeen are celebrating after scooping a new star from the AA 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 prestigious accolade was secured in recognition of both the hotel's exceptionally high standards of service, focus on training, sensitivity of refurbishment, and facilities, and 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. 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 groups 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.

Gordon Cartwright, AA National Account Executive, said, "The award of four stars in any hotel signifies a landmark in its development, and 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, amidst a 2,000 acre estate, the hotel still retains many of its original features such as wheel stair in the south east section of the building, gun loops, stone sinks and fireplaces.

An ideal base for outdoor pursuits such as game fishing, shooting, golf and horse riding, local tourist attractions such as Whisky Distilleries are also close by, whilst the shops, culture, restaurants and night life that Aberdeen has to offer are only 30 minutes away.

Peter Sangster, General Manager at Macdonald Pittodrie House, said: "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.

"This has been an incredible journey for them - from the attention to detail in the bedrooms to the provenance and quality of the menus in the restaurant, the team has consistently delivered a high quality service, ensuring that customers' expectations are not only met but exceeded!"

Double rooms start at £96 per room per night. For details on all offers and packages visit Macdonaldhotels.co.uk/pittodrie.