Cunard has been named Walpole’s British Luxury Brand of the Year after a landmark year that reinforced its position as a leader in luxury travel.
The award was presented on Monday evening at the Walpole British Luxury Awards at The Dorchester, Mayfair. The event celebrates Britain’s most outstanding luxury brands and the people behind them.
Previous winners include Boodles, Gleneagles, Dunhill, Belmond, Charlotte Tilbury, Victoria Beckham, Rolls Royce, Jaguar, Mulberry, Burberry.
Cunard was chosen as the winner from an impressive shortlist that included Jo Malone, The Londoner, and Simpsons’ Wine Estate—each seen as a standout example of British luxury.
Walpole is the official sector body for UK luxury businesses, representing over 250 British brands and supporting an industry worth £81bn to the UK economy.
This recognition highlights Cunard’s success over the past 12 months, including the launch of its newest ship, Queen Anne, in May. Queen Anne is a modern addition to Cunard’s fleet, blending classic elegance with innovative design, new dining experiences, and state-of-the-art wellness facilities.
The award reflects Cunard’s creativity, innovation, and commitment to sustainability, as well as its influence as a British brand on the global stage.
Katie McAlister, President of Cunard, said: “Being named ‘Luxury Brand of the Year’ means so much to all of us at Cunard. This award reflects the remarkable efforts of our team and their dedication to represent the best of British hospitality, creativity and craftsmanship. We are immensely proud to bring the best of British to the world stage, creating not only unforgettable voyages but a true celebration of British luxury.”
Bianca Jagger, who presented the award, said: “For more than 180 years Cunard has redefined luxury at sea, setting a global standard for British hospitality, innovation, and style. Their newest ship, Queen Anne, delivers an unforgettable experience of British luxury, from grand interiors by David Collins Studio to bespoke desk accessories in their library by Maker’s Cabinet, and even the captain’s uniform designed by Kathryn Sargent.”
Walpole’s Chief Executive, Helen Brocklebank, added: “Tonight’s Walpole British Luxury Awards celebrate the creativity and entrepreneurial spirit driving Britain’s £81bn luxury sector. Each award given tonight not only honours those accepting their trophy on stage but pays tribute to the nearly half a million skilled, sustainable jobs supported by UK luxury brands nationwide. The secret of luxury’s long-term success has always been, and always will be, its artisans, makers and craftspeople. My congratulations to tonight’s winners and thanks to all our sponsors and partners without whom this evening would not have been possible.”
