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

The words of Jamal Hilal, Manager of The Crown Hotel – one of Weymouth’s landmark hotels – after it was awarded a three-star rating by the AA following a rigorous inspection.

The former Georgian coaching inn, which has been welcoming travellers for over 200 years, underwent an unannounced inspection by AA’s Hotel & Hospitality Services.

It follows recent investment in extensive renovations, enhancing its rooms and public spaces.

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

Additionally, The Vaults Bar has been transformed into the Onyx Bar & Restaurant and is now home to one of Weymouth’s newest Sunday carvery venues.

Jamal, who has worked at the hotel for 41 years, said: “This award is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our entire team.”

The Crown Hotel 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, becoming the 84 ensuite-room establishment it is today.

The Kings Hotel Group remains a family-run business, now led by Lynne King and her daughter, Fiona.

Lynne and Fiona 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 AA inspection covered cleanliness, hospitality, service, quality of the bedrooms, bathrooms and food.

The Kings Hotel Group also operates The Hotel Rex in Weymouth.

It employs more than 80 local people across various hospitality and support roles.

• Kingshotels.co.uk