GLENAPP Castle in Ballantrae has been named the friendliest hotel in the region, at Scottish tourism’s equivalent of the Oscars.

Glenapp Castle took home the Fishers Most Hospitable Hotel accolade at the West Regional Final of the Scottish Thistle Awards, held at Grand Central Hotel in Glasgow on Thursday hosted by TV presenter and former Miss Scotland, Jennifer Reoch.

The luxury hotel near Ballantrae will go on to represent the region at the glittering Scottish Thistle Awards National Final held at the Edinburgh International Conference Centre in March 2017.

Annique Armstrong, Regional Director at VisitScotland, said: “I am absolutely delighted that Glenapp Castle has been recognised for its outstanding contribution to tourism in Ayrshire.

"Tourism is the driving force for providing the jobs of today and tomorrow and these awards recognise the tireless effort that goes into creating a memorable experience for visitors to Ayrshire.

“I wish the team at Glenapp Castle all the best as they represent the region in the prestigious Scottish Thistle Awards National Final.”