The elegant Richmond Hill Hotel has won a top award in the British South Tourism Awards.

The hotel has been named the 'Large Hotel of the Year', providing another good reason to visit an area rich in history, nature and culture.

The famed establishment took shape in 1726 when two houses were built on the site, while, over time, adjacent properties were added to fully form the hotel we know today.

It falls within a landmark conservation area and is just a short walk from Richmond Park with its deer as well as the majestic views across the Thames, which attracted Turner and Constable to come and paint on Richmond Hill.

Over the years, this 'grand dame of Richmond' has been frequented by royalty, senior politicians, international sporting teams and many stars of stage and screen.

The victory for the hotel may should attract more people to Richmond, which the Council is keen to promote as a visitor destination.

The task has been helped by the success of the award-winning Apple TV series, Ted Lasso, which has recently been filming its third series in the area and has won fans around the world for its stars, including Jason Sudeikis and Hannah Waddingham.

The Beautiful South Tourism Awards, which are organised by Tourism South East, covers establishments across Hampshire, Surrey, Sussex, Kent, Oxfordshire, Berkshire, Buckinghamshire and the Isle of Wight.

Judging is carried out by an independent panel of past winners, industry leaders and experts in their field, selected for their impartiality and experience.

Alongside the Georgian-styled or contemporary rooms, the hotel offers fine food at its '144 on the Hill' restaurant, bar and lounge, while there is also the option to pick up a gourmet picnic at £40 for two to be enjoyed on the riverside or the nearby Royal park.

Picnic menu options include a feta and beetroot, smoked salmon bagels, pork, cider and apple rolls, drinks and a dessert of French teacakes.

The judges said: "Richmond Hill Hotel is a joy to visit, emotionally intelligent and where staff appear genuinely happy to be of service.

"The hotel has successfully attained the balance of providing outstanding service and making the guest feel special and individually cared for."

The hotel is part of a group that also includes The Grand Hotel, Brighton. Marketing director for the two hotels, Charlotte Alldis, said: "We are delighted to have won the Beautiful South Award for the Large Hotel of the Year. 

"A massive congratulations to our entire team who has helped make this happen.

"It is so wonderful that their continued dedication to deliver exceptional experiences and amazing memories for our guests has been recognised in this way."