One of Scotland’s most celebrated hoteliers and restaurateurs, James Thomson OBE, has been honoured with the AA Lifetime Achievement Award.
Announced this week at the AA Hospitality Awards ceremony in London, the Lifetime Achievement Award recognises individuals within the hospitality industry who have dedicated their lives to excellence in their field.
This year, it goes to Thomson in recognition of his ‘outstanding career, visionary approach and lasting legacy’ in Scottish hospitality.
Born and educated in Edinburgh, James is the owner of two of the city’s most iconic establishments – The Witchery and Prestonfield House.
After completing a hospitality course at college, he acquired a series of run-down 16th-Century tenement buildings on Castlehill in the shadow of Edinburgh Castle.
On Halloween 1979, aged just 20 years old, he opened his first restaurant, The Witchery by the Castle, with only three staff, becoming Scotland’s youngest Licensee.
Quickly embraced as a cornerstone of Edinburgh’s hospitality scene, The Witchery is credited with helping revitalise the city’s neglected Old Town, and has grown into a world-renowned destination with nine opulent suites, acclaimed dining, and international recognition.
Most recently The Witchery was awarded ‘AA Best Restaurant with Room’ in Scotland 2023/24 award and named ‘Most Romantic Hotel in the World’ by Big 7 Travel in February 2025.
In 2003, James became only the third owner of Prestonfield House in its 335-year history, a property that has never been on the open market. Built in 1687 by the King’s architect Sir William Bruce, Prestonfield was originally the private home of Edinburgh’s Lord Provost.
James undertook a multi-million-pound renovation, creating a lavish and characterful alternative to the generic luxury hotels of the time. His vision was met with great acclaim, as Prestonfield House soon achieved ‘AA Five Red Stars’ and ‘AA Hotel of the Year for Scotland’, being described as ‘Scotland’s most sumptuous hotel’.
Most recently in July 2025, Prestonfield House was welcomed into the Relais & Châteaux collection, the first hotel in Edinburgh to achieve this recognition.
Speaking on the award, Thomson said: “I am truly humbled and honoured to receive this AA Lifetime Achievement Award. It has been a real privilege to spend my life creating memorable experiences that celebrate Scotland’s heritage, individuality, and a true sense of place.
“From a young boy with a dream, to someone fortunate enough to own and restore two of Edinburgh’s most iconic A-listed properties, this journey has been nothing short of extraordinary.
“To see The Witchery and Prestonfield evolve into internationally recognised destinations is incredibly humbling. This recognition is a deeply meaningful milestone – not only personally, but as a tribute to the remarkable people who’ve helped bring that dream to life.
“From our hugely dedicated team to our amazing suppliers and artisans who share our passion for quality and authenticity – I share this moment with you all.”
