Staff at a Weymouth town centre hotel are celebrating a major achievement.

The Crown Hotel on St Thomas Street has been awarded a three-star rating from the AA following a rigorous inspection by the company's Hotel & Hospitality Services team.

The AA’s inspection process is thorough, involving an unannounced visit by an experienced inspector who assesses various aspects of the hotel.

A three-star rating indicates a friendly, welcoming, and good-quality establishment with well-presented beds and furniture, as well as a choice of good-quality, freshly cooked food available at breakfast.

Jamal Hilal, manager of The Crown Hotel, who has worked there since 1983, said: "This award is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our entire team.

"We strive to provide our guests with an exceptional experience, and this rating validates our efforts."

The former Georgian coaching inn, located in a central position near the Town Bridge, has been welcoming travellers for more than 200 years.

It has been part of the Kings Hotel Group since 1945, when the late Leslie King acquired it from Devenish Brewery.

Over the years, the hotel has expanded into the surrounding buildings and remains a family-run business, now led by Lynne King and her daughter Fiona.

Fiona and Lynne King, Directors of the Kings Hotel Group, said: “We are incredibly proud of what has been achieved over the last 50 years.

"This three-star rating is a significant milestone for The Crown Hotel and a testament to our team’s dedication, especially in overcoming the challenges of the Covid years."

The Kings Hotel Group operates The Crown Hotel and The Hotel Rex in Weymouth, employing more than 80 local people across various hospitality and support roles.

The Crown has recently invested in extensive renovations, enhancing its rooms and public spaces.

The 84 en-suite rooms now feature new soft furnishings, furniture and beds. Each room is equipped with flat-screen TVs, WiFi and other modern amenities.

Additionally, The Vaults Bar has been transformed into the Onyx Bar & Restaurant.