The Angel at Hetton, a Michelin-starred gem in the heart of the breathtaking Yorkshire Dales, has become the first restaurant in Yorkshire to receive the prestigious five AA Rosettes from the AA Restaurant Guide 2025. This honour, awarded to restaurants at the pinnacle of global culinary excellence, was presented to Chef Patron Michael Wignall at the annual AA Hospitality Awards in London on 23rd September, cementing The Angel’s place among the best dining destinations in the world.
Under Wignall’s leadership since 2018, The Angel at Hetton has transformed into a beacon of modern British gastronomy, pushing the boundaries of fine dining while staying true to its roots as the UK’s original gastropub. Known for its innovative use of the finest locally sourced ingredients, The Angel offers a truly immersive experience with seasonal tasting menus, an à la carte selection, and a traditional Sunday lunch—all reflecting a modern, meaningful approach to British cuisine.
Commenting on this remarkable achievement, Michael Wignall said:
“Being awarded five AA rosettes is an incredible honour for us. This award is testament to the dedication, passion, and hard work displayed by our entire team. It signifies recognition of our relentless pursuit of culinary excellence and innovation, and, for me, personally, it validates our commitment to delivering exceptional dining experiences to our guests. We are immensely proud and grateful for this achievement, and it inspires us to continue pushing the boundaries of what we can offer at our beloved restaurant with rooms.“
The Angel at Hetton is not just a dining destination but a complete experience. Nestled in the scenic Yorkshire Dales, the 15th-century inn has recently undergone a five-year renovation, blending historic charm with modern luxury across its sixteen guestrooms. Bespoke furnishings, crafted from locally sourced oak, add to the unique ambience, offering guests a serene and memorable stay in the countryside. Family-friendly and dog-friendly rooms ensure every guest can enjoy the inn’s hospitality.
The Angel’s journey to culinary greatness has been marked by several accolades. It earned a Michelin star in 2019, just a year after Wignall’s arrival, and was ranked second in the Top 100 National Restaurant Awards in 2021. Most recently, the restaurant placed 19th in the Square Meal UK Top 100 Restaurants for 2024.
Simon Numphud, Managing Director of AA Media, praised Wignall’s career:
“It has been fantastic for the AA to follow Michael’s cooking across his entire career. He is one of our most talented British chefs who has been cooking at the highest level for so long. It comes as no surprise that five years after opening The Angel, Michael has for the third time achieved the ultimate accolade of five AA Rosettes.”
With its world-class cuisine, luxurious accommodations, and stunning location, The Angel at Hetton offers an unparalleled experience. This latest recognition only reinforces its status as a must-visit destination for food lovers and travellers alike.
