The Celtic Manor Resort has picked up another major accolade after being judged the UK’s best independent golf resort in the inaugural GOLFAs Awards.
The new awards recognised the golf teams and venues across the country that had made a difference in improving golfers’ experiences and showcasing the sport during 2014.
Celtic Manor saw off stiff competition from fellow finalists Stoke Park, Rockliffe Hall and Grayshott Hotel and Spa to claim the prize for leading independent resort.
The judging panel, which included Keith Mitchell, marketing director of Golfbreaks.com, praised Celtic Manor’s efforts in sustaining visitor numbers and improving their experience in the aftermath of staging the 2010 Ryder Cup.
The panel said: “When the television cameras and crowds had left, the hard work began to sustain the incredible public profile and reputation that the resort had gained. The challenge was overcome by developing the strengths that had made the venue so successful in the first place, with personal touches making each guest feel like a VIP.”
On the back of the worldwide exposure provided by the Ryder Cup, Celtic Manor’s golf revenues doubled between 2008 and 2011 but maintaining those numbers has remained a competitive challenge in the present economic climate.
Celtic Manor Director of Golf, Spa and Leisure Will Hewitt said: “We’re delighted to have won this GOLFAs award and it is very pleasing to hold off such strong competition. Four years on from holding a Ryder Cup described as the greatest ever, it is very satisfying to still be picking up accolades of this stature.”
Celtic Manor was voted Europe’s Golf Resort of the Year and the UK’s Sport Venue of the Year in 2011 and has also been voted Wales’ best resort and best golf course in the Today’s Golfer Travel Awards for the past two years.
Celtic Manor www.celtic-manor.com