A FAMILY-run Powys business has paid tribute to its staff, after it was named Welsh Inn of the Year by the AA.
The Castle Coaching Inn, in Trecastle, in the heart of the Bannau Brycheiniog/Brecon Beacons, was named best Welsh inn in the AA’s 2026 B&B Awards, celebrating the best of the UK independent short stay sector.
Described as “perfect” for walkers, cyclists and nature lovers, the Castle Coaching Inn was one of 13 award winners for 2026.
“We are proud to announce that we have been selected by the AA to be the recipient of the Welsh Inn of the Year award,” the inn announced in a post on its Facebook page last week.
“This recognition is only possible because of the dedication, care and hard work shown by our team every day, and we would like to thank each and every one of them for their continued commitment.
“Thank you to all of our loyal customers for your continued support, we hope that this is only the beginning of many exciting things to come.”
The Castle Coaching Inn is a refurbished Georgian hotel set on the edge of the Brecon Beacons National Park.
It has 10 stylish en suite rooms, a cosy bar and a restaurant serving locally sourced food and drink.
Perfect for walkers, cyclists, and nature lovers, the inn combines historic charm with modern comfort in a relaxed, dog-friendly setting.
Guests can enjoy hearty meals, regional ales and great Welsh breakfast, all while exploring the dramatic Powys countryside, with the Bannau Brycheiniog on the doorstep.
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The AA inspector who visited the venue highlighted its location, calling it the “perfect place to explore the Brecon Beacons National Park”.
They also described it as ideal for walkers and cyclists to stop off; the Georgian building, which was recently refurbished; and the local provenance, and its great use of local produce and ales.
The awards are run by AA Hotel & Hospitality Services, which recognises the independent hospitality providers setting the standard for short stay experiences across the UK
As the spotlight shines on the UK staycation market, the annual AA B&B Awards recognise the depth of high-quality and diverse accommodation providers across the UK as well as celebrate the people behind them.
With 13 categories, including the brand-new AA Self Catering of the Year Award, AA Inspectors cited the strength of the winners this year who continuously deliver first-class hospitality.
From countryside inns to coastal retreats, the 2026 winners represent the exceptional calibre of UK stays, with the awards spanning accommodation, food and beverage and sustainability, reflecting what guests value and the expectations of the modern experience-led traveller.
For three categories – AA Inn of the Year, AA Restaurant with Rooms of the Year and AA Bed and Breakfast of the Year – regional winners were crowned across England, Scotland and Wales.
The winners will now go forward to compete for the overall coveted UK title in each category, which will be announced at the AA Hospitality Awards in London in September.
“As the staycation market plays an increasingly crucial role in driving British tourism, it is vital to champion and celebrate the independent operators who work tirelessly to make the UK such a compelling travel destination,” said Simon Numphud, managing director at AA Media.
“The winners recognised at this year’s AA B&B Awards demonstrate the world-class hospitality, outstanding food and unforgettable guest experiences that are often driven by independent owners whose passion for hospitality, attention to detail and personal approach create the unique and memorable experiences that guests increasingly seek, and which set Britain’s B&B sector apart.”
As well as this award, the Castle Coaching Inn has been rated as 4 stars by the AA and was also recognised this year for its culinary excellence with an AA Rosette.
