Nineteen Fife hospitality venues shortlisted in 2025 Scottish Hotel Accommodation Awards

Nineteen hospitality venues in Fife have been shortlisted in the 2025 Scottish Hotel and Accommodation Awards, further cementing St Andrews’ reputation as a standout destination. Among them, Hotel du Vin and Rusacks Hotel are competing for ‘Hotel of the Year’.

Now in its second year, these awards celebrate excellence in Scotland’s hospitality industry. Rusacks Hotel took home the ‘National Hotel of the Year’ award in 2024 and earned additional accolades, including ‘Restaurant Team of the Year’ (for 18 Restaurant) and ‘Golf Hotel of the Year’.

Several recent developments signal an even higher standard in St Andrews' hospitality scene. Seaton House Hotel, formerly known as The Scores Hotel, is scheduled to reopen on 7 March, 2025, following extensive renovations. Located near the Old Course, it has been transformed from a three-star Best Western into a luxury hotel.

Stephanie Lee, Director of Sales & Marketing, describes the transformation as “a new luxury hotel fitting for a world-class destination”. With only forty-two rooms, it aims to provide an intimate, personalised experience, focusing on a warm Scottish welcome. Renovations include new heating and air conditioning, guest rooms, lifts, and a state-of-the-art gym, while preserving the building’s historic charm.

The hotel’s opening will boost employment, hiring sixty full-time staff from a diverse range of backgrounds. To establish itself, Seaton House has implemented a robust marketing strategy, including PR support, an enhanced website, and social media outreach. Commenting on the competitive hospitality industry, Lee is confident that Seaton House “will be a welcome addition to the town for both locals and visitors alike”.

The entire sector appears to be gaining significant momentum. The Ardgowan Hotel is temporarily closed for refurbishment, while The Old Course Hotel Spa is undergoing a five-month transformation, adding a new entrance, upgraded facilities, and a revitalised spa café. With these developments, St Andrews is gearing up to welcome a surge of international visitors, particularly with The Open set to return in two years for its 31st edition in the town.

Image by Madeleine Rea