A 17th century Cotswold stone pub near Bicester has been recognised for its hospitality excellence.

The Swan Inn, in Islip, was awarded three AA rosettes at the prestigious AA Hospitality Awards held at JW Marriott Grosvenor House London.

Hosted by Claudia Winkleman, the occasion celebrates the UK’s top hotels, restaurants and pubs, and the people behind them.

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One of the industry’s most highly anticipated events, the AA Hospitality Awards span 15 categories, honouring the best hotels, restaurants, and spas across the UK, and celebrating individuals with awards such as the Lifetime Achievement Award, Chefs’ Chef Award and more.

The Swan Inn’s chef patron, Paul Welburn, said: “I'm genuinely over the moon, and so proud of all the team and owners.

"To be recognised by the AA and go in at three Rosettes is incredible in less than a year of being open.

“Anytime is tough to open a restaurant but to do it and be nationally recognised so soon is a testament to all the hard work from all involved.

"For me personally after a very tough and frustrating time the last few years this feels special.

“The reaction I’ve got both last night and all morning has been unbelievable.

"It's also great to see Oxfordshire food scene growing in awards, and congratulations to Killingworth on the award as well. Onward and upward.”

Nina Gray, Nicole Patrick and Carol Robinson, the directors of Migg Inns, who are the investors behind the Swan Inn, said in a joint statement: “We are so incredibly proud of Paul Welburn and the team and thank the AA Awards for this accolade.

“We know that it is a huge privilege for us to receive the three rosettes less than a year after opening. Only 10 per cent of establishments in the AA Guide hold three rosettes.

“To have achieved this in such a short amount of time is to the absolute credit of Paul Welburn, his outstanding reputation and every member of our team who match his passion to deliver an exemplary customer service experience.”

The Killingworth Castle in Wootton was celebrating at the event as well as it was awarded a third AA Rosette for its culinary excellence. 

Also successful was The Wild Rabbit in Kingham which was awarded three AA Rosettes. 

For further information about the AA Hospitality Awards 2023, visit: https://aahospitalityawards.com.

 

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This story was written by Matthew Norman, he joined the team in 2022 as a Facebook community reporter.

Matthew covers Bicester and focuses on finding stories from diverse communities.

Get in touch with him by emailing: Matthew.norman@newsquest.co.uk

Follow him on Twitter: @OxMailMattN1