The Old Bell Hotel wins Hotel Design of the Year at the Independent Hotel Show Awards 2026

The winners have been announced for the 2026 Independent Hotel Show Awards, in partnership with Preferred Hotels & Resorts, with AA Media Managing Director Simon Numphud recognised for his Outstanding Contribution to the Industry.

Each year the awards recognise outstanding hotels, rising stars in hospitality and quality design, celebrating the innovation and excellence present across the board in the UK's independent hotel sector.

Hotel Design of the Year

Hotel Design of the Year was won by Charlotte Smiley and Kim Hanks for the design of The Old Bell Hotel.

The shortlist for Hotel Design of the Year was:

• Calcot Manor & Spa, Blue Forest
• Cromlix, Suzanne Garuda, Garuda Interior Design
• Miiro Templeton Garden Hotel, Holland Harvey, Thurstan and garden designer Rupert Muldoon
• Penmaenuchaf, Nicola Harding & Co
• The Old Bell Hotel, Charlotte Smiley and Kim Hanks

The other winners

In the Independent Hotel of the Year – Over 50 Rooms category, The Grand, York, took home the title, while Cromlix hotel won in the Independent Hotel of the Year – Under 50 Rooms category. Grantley Hall Welcome Host Isaac Arikawe was recognised as a Hotel Rising Star.

“Simon's passion for the industry shines through everything he does. He is rarely in the spotlight but always working behind the scenes to advocate for the sector and champion hospitality professionals.”

— David Todd, Event Director, Independent Hotel Show

The Independent Hotel Show, in partnership with James Hallam Insurance Brokers, is the UK's only business event dedicated exclusively to the needs of luxury, boutique and independently owned hotels. Independent Hotel Show 2027 takes place on 5-6 October at Olympia London.