Marcliffe has been officially awarded the AA’s coveted 5-star rating, making it Aberdeen’s only hotel to hold this distinction under the UK’s leading hospitality rating system.
The accolade follows the retirement of VisitScotland’s Quality Assurance (QA) scheme earlier this year, leaving the AA as the national benchmark for hotel and restaurant excellence.
The rating was granted after a series of anonymous overnight inspections by professional assessors, who reviewed Marcliffe’s service, facilities, food, and overall guest experience against strict criteria. The award reflects outstanding quality across every part of the guest journey.
Alongside this, Marcliffe’s restaurant has received an AA Rosette, recognising food prepared with skill, care, and quality ingredients that stand out in its local area. The rating assures guests of a dining experience delivered with confidence and attention to detail.
Sir Jim Milne CBE, Chairman of Marcliffe, said: “This is a brilliant achievement and shows just how far we’ve come in a short time. To think we closed the hotel earlier this year to focus on improving standards, and now we’ve received this award, it’s a huge achievement and something the whole team can be proud of. Aberdeen’s a city that deserves a 5-star hotel, and I’m really proud of the team for making it happen.”
As the hotel continues the process of appointing a new Managing Director, the AA 5-star rating sets a strong foundation for future growth and continued excellence.
In another significant step for the business, the acquisition of the neighbouring Woodbank Hotel is expected to be completed by the end of November. The expansion will nearly triple the size of the Marcliffe estate, creating new opportunities for growth and enhanced guest experiences.
