Shortlist Announced!
We’re proud to reveal the shortlist for the Highlands and Islands Thistle Awards 2025 – celebrating the very best of our region’s tourism and hospitality industry.
These prestigious awards are designed to recognise, highlight, and reward excellence across the sector, showcasing the exceptional businesses and individuals who go above and beyond to deliver outstanding visitor experiences throughout the Highlands and Islands.
This year, there are 15 awards covering the many facets of our vibrant tourism industry. The winners will be announced at our celebratory Awards Ceremony and Dinner, taking place on Friday 3 October 2025 at the Drumossie Hotel in Inverness, the capital and heart of the Highlands.
We’re proud to work in partnership with the Scottish Thistle Awards. Each of our category winners – with the exception of the Highland Ambassador – will automatically progress as finalists to the Scottish Thistle Awards National Final in November 2025.
Explore the shortlist 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
Puldagon Farm Shop & Restaurant
Best Hotel Experience
Knipoch House Hotel – Sonas Collection
Best Outdoor or Adventure Experience
Best Self-Catering or Unique Stay
Best Visitor Attraction
Seabirds-and-Seals – The Original Noss Boat Tours
Climate Action
Employer of the Year
Highland Ambassador
Winner announced on the evening
Individual of the Year
Carol Fullerton, Carol’s Ponies
Kathy Bichan, Buxa Farm Chalets & Croft House
Roddy MacKay, Eilean Dorcha Festival
Innovation Award
Seabirds-and-Seals – The Original Noss Boat Tours
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