The Michelin Star is recognised as the ultimate honour in the restaurant industry, representing exceptional expertise and creativity in the food served for more than a century.
And while Michelin has been recommending hotels since the 1920s, it wasn’t until last year that they created a star-esque distinction, the Michelin Key, to highlight the best of the best.
The Keys are awarded based on five universal criteria for hotels: architecture and interior design, quality and consistency of service, overall personality and character, value for the price, and contribution to the local setting.
Hotels are selected by anonymous inspectors who consider this comprehensive set of criteria.
If a hotel impresses inspectors, they’ll award it one key for being ‘very special’, two keys for being ‘exceptional’ or three keys for being ‘extraordinary’.
There are 7,000 hotels across the globe in Michelin’s guide for 2025, and 124 of them are in the UK.
A total of 16 British hotels joined Michelin’s lineup of key hotels this year, released on October 8.
Most of this country’s keys belong to establishments in London, but there are some hidden gems outside of the capital.
In the coastal town of Whitby, North Yorkshire, which served as Bram Stoker’s inspiration for Dracula, the luxurious wellness-led sanctuary hotel, Saltmoore, was given Two Keys (pictured)
Saltmoore has been recognised among the UK’s most exceptional places to stay for its distinctive character, warm hospitality and sense of place
In Lancashire, foodie destination and 16th-century manor, Moor Hall in Oughton (home to Michelin’s newest three-star restaurant) was also the worthy new recipient of Two Keys
From coastal charm to country estate escapes, there are plenty of options for travellers seeking a Michelin-approved stay.
In the coastal town of Whitby, North Yorkshire, which served as Bram Stoker’s inspiration for Dracula, a hotel was given Two Keys.
The guide reads: ‘Saltmoore offers sweeping clifftop views and a modern aesthetic that nods to Whitby’s maritime past.
‘Its stylish spa makes it the perfect sanctuary, perched above the sea, where windswept walks end with fireside comfort, while The Brasserie at Saltmoore is an equally chic spot with a local heart.’
In Lancashire, foodie destination and 16th-century manor, Moor Hall in Oughton (home to Michelin’s newest three-star restaurant) was also the worthy new recipient of Two Keys.
‘Moor Hall is a contemporary country hideaway with deep historical roots. Its sleek, understated interiors contrast beautifully with the heritage setting, and with just 14 rooms and a three-star restaurant, you’ll feel like part of an exclusive set.’
Among the establishments that received One Key is a hotel in Burford, often referred to as the ‘gateway’ to the Cotswolds.
‘Set on the high street of one of the Cotswolds’ prettiest towns, the Bull’s owners bring a cool, designer edge to this traditional, gold-hued former coaching inn,’ reads the guide.
For London luxe, The Ritz needs no introduction, and the Mayfair hotel received Two Keys.
‘A symbol of timeless elegance, it pairs Belle Époque glamour with impeccable service and landmark status.
For London luxe, The Ritz needs no introduction, and the Mayfair hotel received Two Keys
In Kensington, home to the Royal Albert Hall and Natural History Museum, The Adria – pictured – received One Key
‘From afternoon tea in the Palm Court to evenings in its two-Michelin-starred dining room, every detail is pure indulgence.’
In Kensington, home to the Royal Albert Hall and Natural History Museum, The Adria received One Key.
‘Set in a white stucco-fronted Victorian townhouse, The Adria offers a discreet and elegant base close to some of London’s top museums.
‘A contemporary classic, its serene, stylish interiors and boutique charm are matched by personalised service.’
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