EIGHTEEN months after re-opening following a refresh, Stirling’s Castle Walk Bed & Breakfast has been named Central Scotland’s Bed & Breakfast of the Year 2019.

Castle Walk Bed & Breakfast, a distinctive property uniquely built into a surviving section of the city walls, took the award as regional winner of the Best Bed & Breakfast in Scotland at a black-tie Scottish Hospitality Awards ceremony in Glasgow on May 21.

“The Scottish Hospitality Awards aim to celebrate the dedication, skill and customer service of the professionals that work within establishments where excellence is standard,” said a spokesperson for Creative Oceanic, which hosts the annual event.

Castle Walk Bed & Breakfast placed among the top four bed and breakfasts in Scotland.

Accepting the award on behalf of the small team running Castle Walk Bed & Breakfast, proprietor Jackie Hadland said: “We are absolutely delighted that our hard work has been acknowledged by so many of our guests, who took the time to nominate and vote for our B&B.

“Soon after we started taking guests, we realised that Stirling is often the first stop or the last stop for many international visitors — which means that Castle Walk Bed & Breakfast is like a reception desk for Scotland," she said.

“The guest experience needs to be good because it will set the mood for the rest of their trip in Scotland and will also influence whether they recommend other visitors to Stirling when they return home,” she explained of the approach at Castle Walk B&B.

“Although rooms are priced, in line with 3-star B&Bs, below £100/night, and half of that for the smaller rooms, we aim to give people the type of experience they would enjoy at a more upmarket establishment. We try to make all our guests feel special and valued and aim to make their Scotland visit memorable."

Staff at Castle Walk B&B make a huge effort to promote the attractions of Stirling - and Scotland in general. “All our food and supplies are sourced locally, wherever possible. We actively promote local restaurants, pubs and historical sites to all our guests when we check them in and also provide individualised travel guidance on things to do in Stirling and destinations elsewhere in Scotland," added Jackie Hadland.

A spokesperson for the Scottish Hospitality Awards 2019 said: ”Working for the hospitality industry can be challenging at times and these awards aim to recognise those who have succeeded in this sector, despite the difficulties. There are people who have dedicated their whole career in making the country a special destination for visitors. It is time to give those professionals the recognition they deserve.

"These awards endeavour to acknowledge everyone who works hard to enhance the reputation of the country, from restaurants that serve delicious dishes to bars and clubs that keep Scotland alive at nights, shopping centres as well as museums and tourist attractions that promote and showcase the rich Scottish heritage.

“The awards will provide a platform to thank and honour those who have contributed to making Scotland a friendly and welcoming place, enhancing the country’s reputation nationally and internationally,” said the spokesperson.