This year the Michelin Guide is celebrating its 100 year anniversary. Earlier in the year, the Black Swan was approached by Michelin who informed us that our hotel was one of only 30 elite hotels in the UK who was featured in the guide when it was first launched in 1911 and is still featured in the guide today. Out of these 30 hotels, the Black Swan is one of only four hotels in Yorkshire who is still in the guide.
The first Michelin guide to the British Isles was published in 1911, with the aim of helping intrepid motorists on their travels. It was dark blue and largely instructional in nature, with information on road quality and how to change a tyre, as well as details on hotels and repair shops for the inevitable breakdowns. Five editions were initially published, with a break for the First World War, followed by from 1922 to 1930. The current Great Britain & Ireland guide was launched in 1974 and has been published every year since.
In 2011, the guide continues to respond to the needs of its readers. It recommends a large and diverse selection of hotels, guesthouses, restaurants and pubs in all price categories and across every region of the UK and Ireland. The 1911 guide pointed out amenities such as central heating or electric light but in 2011 is more likely to highlight outstanding cooking and exceptional wine lists.
Congratulations to the Michelin Guide on it's 100 year anniversary!!