This stylish hotel with magnificent views of Carmarthen Bay is the best in Wales according to the prestigious AA Hospitality Awards
The infinity pool at St Brides Spa Hotel in Saundersfoot(Image: St Brides Spa Hotel/Daily Express)
A Welsh hotel in one of Pembrokeshire’s top seaside towns has been named best in the country at the AA Hospitality Awards
St Brides Spa Hotel in Saundersfoot was picked for the prestigious title for its “stylish” design and feel and unmistakable views of Carmarthen Bay.
A four-star hotel, it has 34 individually styled bedrooms – many with sea views and balconies – and six two-bedroom serviced apartments. Its relaxing spa facilities include a an infinity pool with that amazing view of the sea, St Brides is also part of The Celtic Collection known for operating venues like Newport’s The Celtic Manor and Ty Milford in Milford Haven. This affordable harbour hotel is one of the best in Wales and has amazing seafood.
Hotel Manager at St Brides Spa Hotel, Alice Hughes said the AA accolade was a “fantastic endorsement” for the work done by the team.
“Winning Hotel of the Year for Wales from the AA means a huge amount to our team and is an amazing achievement,” she said. “The whole team are committed to providing the warmest Welsh welcome, delivering exceptional hospitality and exceeding guest expectations, so being recognised with this award is a fantastic endorsement for all that we do.
“With so many other incredible hotels and destinations in Wales, we are absolutely thrilled to win this award and it gives the entire team real encouragement to know that the experiences we create for guests are being appreciated.”
The AA inspector’s comment on the coastal hotel, which has views over the popular Saundersfoot beach, was that it’s: “Stylish and modern with stunning views of Carmarthen Bay.” From superstar gigs to cosy pubs, find out What’s On in Wales by signing up to our newsletter here.
Just a few miles away from St Brides, you’ll find the resort town of Tenby and further west a selection of Wales’ best beaches including Barafundle, Broadhaven and Manorbier.
Saundersfoot (Image: Western Mail)
A flagship event, the AA Hospitality Awards are recognised as the gold standard of excellence within the industry. Organised by AA Hotel & Hospitality Services, as well as recognising the best hotels it also highlights the country’s most exceptional hotels, restaurants, spas, inns, and B&Bs, as well as the inspiring people behind them.
Accolades were presented across 18 categories, including AA Chefs’ Chef of the Year, AA Sustainable Award, AA Spa Hotel of the Year and, brand new for 2025, the AA Rising Star Award. See the full list of Welsh winners, here .
Other Welsh winners included Cardiff’s Gorse restaurant and Ynyshir Restaurant & Rooms, near Machynlleth. Taking home one of the evening’s most prestigious accolades, Gareth Ward of Ynyshir has been named AA Chefs’ Chef of the Year 2025 , an award voted for exclusively by his peers. Known for his bold, boundary-pushing approach to modern dining, Ward has transformed Ynyshir into one of the UK’s most exciting culinary destinations, combining Japanese influences with the finest Welsh produce.
Simon Numphud, Managing Director at AA Media, praised the UK’s hospitality sector for its resilience and innovative spirit in 2025: “This celebration highlights the passion, creativity and resilience that define UK hospitality. The teams have turned challenges into opportunities, inspiring us with their innovation and dedication. Congratulations to all winners, nominees and new Rosette holders – your achievements deserve recognition today and set a shining example for the future of our industry.”