First Kent hotel awarded brand new Michelin Key at 2025 ceremony
A total of seven Kent-based hotels feature in the Michelin Guide
Image Credit Joe Howard
A Kent hotel has been the first in the county to be awarded a Michelin Key which is designed to highlight the most outstanding stays within the Guide’s hotel selection.
Boys Hall, on the outskirts of Ashford, were awarded the gong during a prestigious Michelin ceremony in Paris yesterday (October 8th 2025).
In total, just 139 hotels have been awarded Keys in Great Britain and Ireland, that includes 14 Three-Key hotels, 43 Two-Key hotels and 82 One-Key hotels.
The owners of Boys Hall are husband and wife team Bradley Lomas and Kristie Lomas, who purchased and relaunched the 17th-century manor in Ashford as a boutique hotel and restaurant in 2022.
They took to social media and said:
“We’re so excited to wake up to the news of Boys Hall being awarded 1 MICHELIN Key!
”What an honour this is. We are delighted to be recognised for our ‘outstanding stays’ and want to thank our entire talented team who work tirelessly to make every stay memorable.
”We would also like to thank our many guests from near and far who ignite our passion for doing what we do.”
Inspectors for the Michelin Guide said: “You know you’re in for an exceptional country house experience as you approach Boys Hall, its façade cradled by foliage, its three acres of gardens oozing appeal. The beautifully restored manor dates back to 1616, with each of the nine individually designed bedrooms leaning into this period charm with beams, wood paneling, and old-school floral prints. An airy, barn-like extension houses a lovely restaurant, and there’s even an on-site pub and terrace, ideal for cozying up with a drink in winter or soaking up the sun in summer.”
Hotels have been recommended in Michelin guides since the 1920s, but the organisation launched its standalone key award in 2023, which highlights the best places to stay around the world.
In total, seven Kent hotels feature in the Michelin Guide including:
Fort Road Horel, Margate
No. 42 by Guesthouse, Margate
Boys Hall, Ashford
Bell Hotel, Sandwich
The Rose, Deal
The Beacon, Tunbridge Wells
Margate House, Margate
THE THREE TIERS OF MICHELIN KEYS:
One MICHELIN Key: a very special stay
This is a true gem with its own character and personality. It may break the mould, offer something different, or simply be one of the best of its type. Service always goes the extra mile and provides significantly more than similarly priced establishments.
Two MICHELIN Keys: an exceptional stay
Somewhere truly unique and exceptional in every way, where a memorable experience is always guaranteed. A hotel of character, personality and charm that’s operated with obvious pride and considerable care. Eye-catching design or architecture, and a real sense of the locale make this an exceptional place to stay.
Three MICHELIN Keys: an extraordinary stay
It’s all about astonishment and indulgence here – this is the ultimate in comfort and service, style and elegance. It is one of the world’s most remarkable and extraordinary hotels and a destination for that trip of a lifetime. All the elements of truly great hospitality are here to ensure any stay will live long in the memory and hearts of travellers.
