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NEW CHAIRMAN FOR POB

2011-12-28T09:18:00.004Z

Every two years the Pride of Britain consortium elects a new chairman from among its existing member hoteliers and we are delighted to have David Morgan-Hewitt, Managing Director of The Goring, as our new chairman.

David is a well known figure in the luxury hotel industry with numerous awards to his name including "Manager of the Year" at the 2010 Caterer & Hotelkeeper Awards, otherwise known as the "Cateys".

Setting out his aims at our recent annual conference David said that growing the status and recognition of the Pride of Britain brand is his top priority.

30 Years of Excellence

2011-12-15T10:55:00.005Z

It was in 1982 that the Pride of Britain hotel consortium was formed by a small group of British hoteliers, led by Gerald Milsom who was owner of Maison Talbooth in Essex (pictured). Today the hotel is still part of the successful Milsom Hotels business, now chaired by Paul Milsom, and we are proud to say it remains a member of the Pride of Britain consortium, 30 years on.

Of course the hotel has undergone many changes and improvements, just as Pride of Britain has, so that it can cater for the modern seeker of luxury.

Have you been using Pride of Britain Hotels frequently over the years? If so, we'd love to hear from you.

Gathering of the Pride

2011-12-01T13:46:00.004Z

Luton Hoo in Bedfordshire was the setting for this year's Pride of Britain Annual Conference, a gathering of the owners and general managers from the 43 privately owned luxury hotels that make up our consortium.

For 48 hours the team at Luton Hoo gave faultless service and helped to make it one of our best ever member events. They even trusted us with longbows and shotguns during a break from business!

Pictured (right) is the beautiful Werner Restaurant where hoteliers and the consortium's commercial partners dined in style to celebrate another successful year for Pride of Britain.

Sunday Times Food List

2011-11-16T10:29:00.004Z

Four Pride of Britain restaurants have been recognised among the top 100 in Britain, as chosen by thousands of Sunday Times readers in conjunction with Harden's Guides.

The fabulous fouresome are: The French Horn at Sonning in Berkshire, Holbeck Ghyll at Windermere in Cumbria, Northcote near Blackburn in Lancashire and Simon Radley at the Chester Grosvenor in Cheshire.

Many congratulations to all of them.

For more information see www.thesundaytimes.co.uk/thefoodlist

2012 directory out now.

2011-10-31T11:51:00.007Z

We have just released our 2012 hotel directory, featuring 43 privately owned luxury hotels.

New to the collection this year are The Swan at Lavenham (pictured), Stapleford Park, Barnsley House, The Thurlestone, Eshott Hall and South Lodge. These fine properties join our long established member hotels which have all earned a reputation for great hospitality.

Please call us on 0800 089 3929 to order your free copy.

Devonshire Food Festival

2011-10-26T16:42:00.008+01:00

Steve Smith, Head Chef at The Burlington Restaurant at The Devonshire Arms invites you to a series of light-hearted lunches with chefs from some of the country's finest establishments in friendly competition as part of the Devonshire Food Festival. Guest chefs include Matt Weedon from Lords of the Manor Hotel and Matthew Tomkinson from the Montagu Arms.

Lunches take place on November 14th, 15th, 16th, 17th & 18th. For more details click on the link above.

Each chef will design their own menu of one starter, one main course and one pudding. The cost is £29 per person to include a drink on arrival.

Dinners take place on the same dates and cost £59 per person.

Visit us at the Luxury Travel Fair

2011-10-24T11:45:00.002+01:00

Pride of Britain Hotels are among the exclusive companies exhibiting at this year's Luxury Travel Fair in the National Hall at Olympia, London from November 3rd to 6th.

The show presents some of the world's top hotels, game reserves, spas and overseas tour operators alongside representatives from the Pride of Britain collection of 43 luxury hotels here in the UK.

Opening times are 10 am to 6pm on Thursday, Friday & Saturday and from 10am to 5pm on Sunday.

Why not combine your visit with a look around the Spirit of Christmas Fair, organised by House & Garden magazine, which takes place in the adjoining hall? For details see www.spiritofchristmasfair.co.uk

INCREASING PRIDE

2011-10-04T12:38:00.000+01:00

Pride of Britain Hotels have just elected three new hotels to join them as members of the consortium, taking the collection up to 44 superb properties in England, Wales, Scotland and Jersey.

Stapleford Park (pictured) is a magnificent privately owned hotel near Melton Mowbray in the heart of England. The Swan at Lavenham in Suffolk is a 15th century gem that has recently undergone sympathetic refurbishment. And finally, Barnsley House in Gloucestershire represents informal luxury and one of the finest gardens in Britain.

Please look out for details of these lovely hotels on our web site and in the meantime call us on 0800 089 3929 for prices and availability for your next break.

Luxury Lifestyle Show

2011-09-02T14:13:00.003+01:00

Come and see Pride of Britain Hotels at the Luxury Lifestyle show at Sandown Racecourse, Esher, Surrey on Saturday 8th and Sunday 9th October. Doors open at 10 am till 5.00pm.

Lots of interesting exhibits and activities for car enthusiasts, cookery enthusiasts and luxury lifestyle enthusiasts of all ages.

Good news for British tourism

2011-08-26T11:47:00.006+01:00

Figures released from the International Passenger Survey show that
2.89 million foreign tourists visited Britain in June this year, 9% up
on June 2010. A spokesperson for VisitBritain, our national tourist
board, said "not only are we seeing overall visitor numbers and
expenditure at their highest ever level for June, but international
visits to the UK in the first half of the year are 6% above the same period last year".
This is good news for UK residents who enjoy staying in our hotels
because healthy business levels means plenty of investment in the
facilities and staff, raising quality standards even higher.

Good news all round!

Pride of Britain cyclathon

2011-08-16T10:13:00.003+01:00

30 cyclists from Pride of Britain hotels in the Cotswolds and also from Barnsley House, sister hotel to Calcot Manor (pictured), will push themselves to the limit on September 12th in aid of Hospitality Action - the hospitality industry charity.

The ride is 110 miles and will start at Calcot Manor, then on to Barnsley House, The Feathers at Woodstock, Lords of the Manor at Upper Slaughter and then back to Calcot.

And as anyone who has visited the beautiful Cotswolds will know, there are one or two hills along the way!

If you would like to sponsor them please contact Michele Mella on 01285 740000

Competition winner

2011-08-10T15:00:00.001+01:00

Congratulations to RK of Yeovil in Somerset who has won our July competition and who will receive £250 in Pride of Britain gift vouchers to spend at any of our 42 member hotels.

Charity Polo day at Beaufort Polo Club

2011-07-27T12:36:00.005+01:00

Hospitality Action, the charity that helps people in distress from within the hospitality industry, invites you to enjoy a superb day of Polo on Sunday 11th September at the famous Beaufort Polo Ground near Tetbury in Gloucestershire.

The day begins with champagne at noon followed by a three course lunch prepared by four leading chefs from the South West: Martin Burge of Whatley Manor, Hywel Jones of Lucknam Park, Michael Croft of Calcot Manor (Pride of Britain members) and Sam Moody of The Bath Priory.

Grandstand seats will be reserved for you and your guests to watch the Sidebottom Cup match and then proceedings end with a traditional English cream tea.

The cost is £90 per person or £850 per table of ten.

To book please call Giuliana Vittiglio on 020 7253 2094 or e-mail gvittiglio@hospitalityaction.org.uk

Pride of ...Britain in Bloom

2011-07-11T13:14:00.005+01:00

If you should happen to be in the North West of England between July 20th and 24th we thoroughly recommend a day at the famous Tatton Park flower show in Cheshire, organised by the Royal Horticultural Society.

Please come and see us within the Country Living marquee to receive details of some very special garden breaks, meet some of our member hoteliers and enter a prize draw to win £250 in Pride of Britain gift vouchers.

New members join Pride of Britain

2011-06-30T15:31:00.008+01:00

Following successful inspections, three new hotels have been elected into the consortium.

South Lodge is at Lower Beeding in Sussex and is owned by the Exclusive Hotels group. The Thurlestone near Kingsbridge in Devon is a family-friendly property overlooking the sea. Eshott Hall (pictured) near Morpeth in Northumberland is a small, privately owned country house within easy reach of the famous Alnwick Gardens.

All of these fine hotels will soon feature on this web site but in the meantime please ask us about any of them by calling 0800 089 3929

Competition winner

2011-06-20T14:45:00.001+01:00

Congratulations to LH of Blaydon, Tyne and Wear who has won our May prize draw. She will receive £250 in Pride of Britain gift vouchers to spend at any of our 39 current member hotels.

Hospitality Action cyclathon

2011-05-26T13:12:00.006+01:00

Members of Pride of Britain Hotels have teamed up with friends from across the industry in support of a fundraising "cyclathon" for Hospitality Action, the hotel and catering industry benevolent charity.

Pictured at the start of the first leg are L-R Peter Egli (Whatley Manor) Richard Ball (Calcot Manor) Grahame Grose (The Thurlestone Hotel) Tim Hassell (Ilsington Hotel) Peter Hancock (Pride of Britain) Harry Murray (Lucknam Park) and Jeffrey Crockett (Fawsley Hall)

If you work in the industry and would like to take part please look at www.hospitalityaction.org.uk/cyclathon

Competition winner

2011-05-16T13:25:00.002+01:00

Congratulations to MB of Camberley in Surrey who has won our April prize draw and will receive £250 in Pride of Britain gift vouchers to spend at any of our 39 member hotels.

Hotel of the Year

2011-05-10T14:07:00.009+01:00

At a gathering of the owners and general managers of Pride of Britain's member hotels on May 9th at The Goring in London a presentation was made by Mr George Goring OBE to the new recipient of Pride of Britain's singular "Hotel of the Year" award for 2011.

That receipient was The Chester Grosvenor & Spa whose Managing Director, Jonathan Slater, was on hand to receive the award in person.

Many congratulations to everyone at The ChesterGrosvenor.

The 2010 award winner was Maison Talbooth. The award is for outstanding hospitality and is based on the findings of the consortium's mystery guest visits, which this year produced a shortlist of 3 properties. The runners up were Northcote in Lancashire and The Nare in Cornwall.

Bride of Britain

2011-05-06T12:53:00.007+01:00

With the eyes of the world upon the marriage of Prince William to Kate Middleton, now their Royal Highnesses the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, one very special London hotel received some well deserved attention.

The Goring was host to the bridal party on April 28th and its Managing Director, David Morgan-Hewitt commented afterwards "It was a great honour to play a small part in a momentous day. We all had a happy and busy weekend. I am sure every member of the team will treasure the memory of it forever".

From all at Pride of Britain we say well done to The Goring.

2012 Olympic games

2011-04-06T12:25:00.001+01:00

Unless you have spent the last 12 months marooned on a desert island you probably know that the 2012 Olympic Games are to be held in London. Tickets for the events have gone on sale already and we look forward to welcoming many visitors from overseas for the Olympic games, which are from 27th July until 12th August, and the Paralympic games, which are from 29th August until 9th September 2012. For all visitors we recommend taking a look at the web site of VisitBritain, our national tourism agency and for more detailed facts about the games themselves please see london2012.com.

Pride of Britain has two member hotels in London: The Goring and The Arch London, both of which offer very high standards of luxury. Should you prefer to watch or listen from the comfort of a stylish hotel away from the crowds we have another 37 fine places to stay throughout Britain, including two in Dorset where the sailing element of the games will take place.

Competition winner

2011-04-06T11:50:00.002+01:00

Congratulations to T.A. from Sutton in Surrey who has won our March competition and will receive £250 in Pride of Britain vouchers to spend at any of our 39 member hotels.

What's new in 2011

2011-04-04T09:43:00.000+01:00

Here are just a few of the many interesting things happening at or near Pride of Britain Hotels this year...

APRIL - There are lots of opportunities for short stays over the Easter period which starts with Good Friday on April 22nd. Families are well catered for at most Pride of Britain member hotels - choose the "children welcome" symbol on the "Find and book" page on our web site for the whole selection. Bodysgallen Hall celebrates its 30th anniversary with a series of cultural lunches and evenings, including a talk by Elizabeth Green of the National Trust on properties in North Wales. And don't forget the Royal Wedding takes place on April 29th which has been declared a public holiday. For racegoers Saturday 9th is the big one, The John Smith's Grand National at Aintree.

MAY - Over 3,500 gardens open their gates to the rest of us for the National Gardens Scheme which raises at least £2m a year for charitable causes. Visit one or two when you stay at any Pride of Britain Hotel in England or Wales. If you are a member of the National Trust you can also visit properties in Scotland that are part of National Trust Scotland free of charge. Also in May (19th - 22nd) is the BMW PGA golf championship played on the legendary Wentworth Course in Surrey.

JUNE - The famous Cotswold Air Show which takes place at Kemble Airfield on June 18th & 19th might appeal to someone in need of a Father's Day treat (June 19th) and is surrounded by a great choice of Pride of Britain hotels. June is also the month for Royal Ascot (14th - 18th) and if you can't be there try Le Talbooth in Essex for a wonderful "Ascot" day of racing, music, river trips, champagne and great food. To see horse action of a different kind visit the Coutts International Polo at Chester Racecourse on the 3rd & 4th. June is also synonymous with the Wimbledon Tennis Championships starting at the Queens Club on June 20th and reaching their climax at the finlas on July 2nd & 3rd. If that doesn't float your boat how about ther Henley Royal Regatta (14th - 18th June) and an overnight at the outstanding French Horn at Sonning.

JULY - A magnificent sight if you are in Scotland this July (21st - 24th) is the Tall Ships Race, closely folowed by the Callander World Highland Games (30th July & 1st August). And if you have been put off flying abroad there are plenty of beautiful locations in Britain for a holiday - no airport queues, no lost luggage and every cup of tea is made perfectly! In the South of England from July 5th - 10th we strongly recommend the Hampton Court Palace flower show and, in the North, the equally superb Tatton Park flower show (July 20th - 24th) both organised by the Royal Horticultural Society.

AUGUST - The opera season at Glynbourn in Sussex runs until August 28th and is immediately followed by a public holiday on Monday 29th. Edinburgh has festivals through the summer including its International Festival (Aug 12th - Sept 4th). And throughout the year the National Trust has hundreds of amazing places to visit, all within striking distance of a Pride of Britain hotel, see http://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ More to come. Watch this space! Luxury Hotels England Luxury Hotels Wales Luxury hotels Scotland Luxury Hotels Jersey

How to spend those long weekends

2011-03-29T10:29:00.000+01:00

Thanks to an unprecedented run of public holidays (on April 22nd, 25th, 29th and May 2nd) many of our customers will be taking an extra day off over the next few weekends and some will no doubt use the opportunity to make a week of it. Since these breaks coincide with Spring you may well fancy staying in Britain rather than endure the hassle of flying abroad - and who can blame you?

We have just published our 8 page colour newsletter packed with ideas for short breaks. If you'd like a copy just call us on 0800 089 3929 giving your postal address.

Competition winner

2011-03-03T10:19:00.002Z

Congratulations to Miss R C of Brixton who has won our February prize draw and will receive £250 in Pride of Britain gift vouchers to spend at any current PoB member hotel.

Competition winner

2011-02-03T14:32:00.001Z

Congratulations to JW of St Albans who wins our January prize draw and will receive £250 in Pride of Britain gift vouchers.

Reaching for the stars

2011-01-16T09:46:00.004Z

Congratulations to Linthwaite House on achieving 4 RED STARS from the AA. Red stars are an indication of exceptional hospitality and are shared by a very small number of hotels in the UK, including most Pride of Britain members of course!

Linthwaite House stands 400 feet above magnificent Lake Windermere and perfectly complements our other Lakes member hotel, Holbeck Ghyll which also enjoys 4 red star status.

We are also proud to reveal that The Torridon in Wester Ross, Scotland, has been awarded 3 AA rosettes for its outstanding cuisine.

Luxury Lake District Hotels

Luxury Hotels in Scotland

Competition winner

2011-01-10T11:47:00.002Z

Congratulations to Miss S.R. from Colne Engaine in Essex who won our December competiton and who wins £250 in Pride of Britain gift vouchers to spend at any current member hotel.

Going the extra mile

2010-12-23T15:11:00.005Z

Getting a newly married couple to the reception at Dormy House Hotel took more than a little ingenuity when 2ft of snow got in the way last weekend!

General Manager David Field called on the support of the estate team from Farncombe Estate to get Rachel and Neil and their guests to the luxury hotel in a convoy of off-road vehicles.

Mr & Mrs Kentish (pictured) said "We were over the moon with what the Dormy House did for us".

Luxury Cotswold Hotels

Gathering of the Pride

2010-11-16T14:58:00.004Z

Once a year the owners and general managers
from all Pride of Britain's 39 member hotels get
together for a two day conference to discuss plansfor the consortium and to exchange views on topical issues.

Bovey Castle in Devon is the venue this time
(Nov 21 & 22) and was chosen for its fabulous location
and spacious accommodation, easily swallowing up
the 95 guests in the group which includes Pride of Britain's members and commercial partners .

Luxury Hotels Devon

Luxury Travel Fair - Olympia

2010-11-02T11:28:00.004Z

Pride of Britain Hotels are on show at the Conde Nast Luxury Travel Fair this week at the Olympia exhibition hall in London. The show opens on Thursday November 4th and runs until Sunday 7th.

Meet the faces behind some of our member hotels on stand SD26 and get inspiration for your next break.

Visit the "Meet the Experts" theatre to see interviews with key travel personalities, Taste the World with Harvey Nichols Foodmarket or enjoy an exclusive preview of the Christie's Vintage Travel Poster Department Ski Sale.

For details go to http://www.luxurytravelfair.com/ or call 0871 230 1091

Northcote's young talent recognised.

2010-10-21T15:17:00.007+01:00

On October 20th at London's Jumeirah Carlton Tower, Tom Parker of Northcote in Lancashire came third in the national finals of the Young Chef/Young Waiter competition organised by the Restaurant Association.

This followed a gruelling set of regional heats against stiff competition from representatives of some of the UK's top hotels and restaurants. The evening was hosted by Pride of Britain's very own Peter Hancock.

Pictured are the successful finalists in each category (Tom Parker is third from the right and in the centre is Restaurant Association President, Robert Walton MBE).

Luxury Country House Hotels

Elite wins award for sustainability

2010-10-11T09:24:00.004+01:00

Elite Hotels, the independent group that owns the three latest luxury hotels to become members of Pride of Britain, has won the first ever "Eco Hotel Group of the Year" award from the AA.

The group includes Ashdown Park, Tylney Hall and Luton Hoo all of which have passed our inspection and voting process to become members of the consortium with effect from November this year.

Commenting for the AA, group area manager Giovanna Grossi said "Elite Hotels were selected because of their caring approach to the environment and to reducing the carbon footprint of the business, without compromising the excellent standard and quality they offer their guests....they also have a commitment to preserving the nation's heritage at the significant historical sites that house all of their beautiful hotels."

Luxury Country House hotels

National Trust partnership

2010-10-05T11:22:00.004+01:00

The National Trust and Pride of Britain Hotels announce a new commercial partnership to support the conservation work carried out by the charity.

As the Trust's official partner from October 2010 Pride of Britain will pay to the Trust 5% of the value of all centrally placed reservations attributable to NT members and supporters. This does not affect the prices paid by these guests.

Marianne Wanstall, Head of Holidays at the National Trust said "We're delighted to welcome Pride of Britain as our new partner within the National Trust Holiday Collection...we choose all our holiday partners carefully, not least for the high quality and appeal of their offer"

Are you a member of the National Trust? If not, please take a look at what is available at www.nationaltrust.org.uk

Wear it pink for charity - The Feathers at Woodstock

2010-09-29T15:02:00.007+01:00

"Wear it Pink" day in aid of Breast Cancer Campaign is on October 29th and for the whole of that week The Feathers at Woodstock in Oxfordshire will donate £1 to the fund for every pink drink sold. That's every bottle of pink champagne, wine or sparkling sold that week. In addition, a special "Wear it Pink" gin cocktail will be served in the hotel's brand new dedicated gin bar.

For more information visit http://www.wearitpink.co.uk/

Luxury Oxfordshire Hotels

AA awards for Pride of Britain member hoteliers

2010-09-28T10:30:00.006+01:00

At the prestigeous AA Hospitality Awards on September 27th the following Pride of Britain members were honoured:

4 Rosettes were awarded to Northcote in Lancashire
4 Rosettes were awarded to The Devonshire Arms in Yorkshire
3 Rosettes and 4 Red Stars were awarded to Holbeck Ghyll in Cumbria
4 Red Stars were awarded to Kilworth House in Leicestershire

George Goring OBE (pictured right) was presented with the Lifetime Achievement Award in recognition of his long and successful stewardship of unique London hotel, The Goring, and for his immense contribution to the industry as a whole.

From everyone at Pride of Britain, congratulations!

Another triumph for Maison Talbooth

2010-09-24T11:05:00.003+01:00

Maison Talbooth has won the award for "Best Small Hotel in Essex" at the Essex Tourism Awards presented on 23rd September.

Congratulations to the team on yet another accolade.

The Organ Concert Series at Bowood House

2010-09-21T15:04:00.003+01:00

At 3pm on the 2nd of October Christopher Kent completes the final performance of The Organ Concert Series held in the chapel at Bowood House.

The famous organ in Bowood Chapel was installed in 2004 to commemorate the Millennium and since its introduction, has played host to many fantastic concerts in the beautiful surroundings of this historic country house in Wiltshire.

To find out more information about the hotel click here and to make a booking, please click here.

Competition Winner

2010-09-13T12:39:00.004+01:00

Competition Winner

Pride of Britain Hotels would like to congratulate Mrs J Y from Bedfordshire, on winning £250 of Pride of Britain Hotels Gift Vouchers. To enter the competition for September, please follow this link. The prize can be used at any of the luxury hotels within the collection.

Luxury Golf Hotels

2010-08-26T15:01:00.006+01:00

Luxury hotels and great golf courses go hand in hand, Pride of Britain Hotels with their own golf courses offer exactly this and include locations in Devon, Wiltshire, Kent and Scotland.

The Old Course at Bovey Castle is a challenging and beautiful 18 hole championship golf course designed in 1926 by JF Abercomby, one of the finest British golf course designers of the Golden Era and it has been named as one of the top 100 golf courses in Britain. Their luxury golf breaks include ‘time to golf’, which features two rounds of golf per person on the championship course, overnight accommodation and English breakfast. The offer starts from £174.50 per person and is valid until the end of October.

Golf hotels in Scotland include the Isle of Eriska which has a nine hole golf course featuring some of the most beautiful scenery anywhere, with unbroken views over the sea to towards Mull. The course is free to play if you are staying at this luxury island hotel.

Bowood Hotel, Spa and Golf resort in Wiltshire features what is considered as the region’s principal championship course. It was designed by Dave Thomas, architect of the Belfry and provides 7317 yards of outstanding golf. One of the best golf hotel packages is their ‘stay and play golf’ special rate, which starts from £105 per person, based on two people sharing a twin or double room and includes accommodation in one of the luxury rooms, full English breakfast, full use of the spa facilities and entrance to Bowood House, Gardens and Adventure playground.
Luxury Wiltshire Hotels

Eastwell Manor golf and spa hotel in Kent also features the “Eastwell 9”. A new 2132 yard par 33 golf course available for the exclusive use of hotel guests and corporate delegates. 18 holes of golf costs £15 unless you take up one of their golf and spa breaks, where the “Eastwell 9” and other local golf courses can be included in the price.
Luxury Kent Hotels

Luxury hotel provides mooring in the West Highlands of Scotland

2010-08-13T14:28:00.011+01:00

Isle of Eriska luxury hotel and spa - Yacht Moorings

Moor your yacht at the Isle of Eriska's recently refurbished pier and use the fine dining restaurant, the spa or enjoy a leisurely game of golf. Complimentary showers are available at the Stables leisure facilities between 7 - 8pm prior to dinner, however it is important to note that dinner reservations are essential. Dinner in the main house costs from £42 per person, for a four course meal including coffee.

Luxury Hotel and Spa

For more information on The Isle of Eriska Hotel please click here.

Written by Andrew Liggins

Aspect Events - Luxury Short Breaks

2010-08-10T14:44:00.006+01:00

Aspect Events is a small company owned by Nicholas Merchant, which takes you to fascinating places for enjoyable short breaks in congenial company. Their short breaks for collectors are very popular and include visits around the UK, comprising of accommodation in luxury hotels, visits to many interesting and impressive museums, gardens and houses. The breaks include talks on subjects such as the Arts and Crafts Movement and Elizabethan Embroidery, specifically tailored to their location and the surrounding area and attractions.

These popular events often take place at Country House Hotels that are part of the Pride of Britain collection.
Over the coming twelve months these include:
Chester Grosvenor and Spa, a luxury hotel in Chester.
Bowood, a luxury hotel in Wiltshire, with a spa and golf course.
Lords of the Manor, a luxury hotel in the Cotswolds.
And the Hebridean Princess, a luxury cruise ship in Scotland.

For more information on Aspect events, please go to www.aspectevents.co.uk/, where you will find all the planned dates and venues.

The Prince’s Countryside Fund

2010-08-06T12:04:00.007+01:00

The Prince’s Countryside Fund

The Prince of Wales has launched a fund intended to assist rural communities and especially those farmers whose livelihoods are at risk. The Prince’s Countryside Fund also aims to draw attention to the importance of farmers in maintaining our beautiful countryside. The fund has already received help from major food businesses and can expect to be supported by the tourism sector, including independent hotels.

To find out more please contact info@princescountrysidefund.org.uk or visit http://www.princescountrysidefund.org.uk/

Luxury Country House Hotels

Kilworth House luxury Hotel – The Opera Show

2010-07-27T11:47:00.003+01:00

Kilworth House luxury Hotel – The Opera Show

Kilworth House hotel in Leicestershire, offers luxury accommodation and fantastic food in the buildings of a glorious grade II listed Italianate family home.

The Kilworth House Theatre is located in a beautiful wooded glade close to the lake in the grounds of this luxury hotel and from Wednesday the 1st of September to Sunday the 12th of September will be staging The Opera Show.

‘The Opera Show’ presents the most beautiful music ever written, performed in a spectacular and 21st century showcase. Mitch Sebastian’s production is startling and fresh, with choreography animating great works of classical music. The result is an enchanted world where the music is brought to life in an evening that will delight opera enthusiasts and newcomers alike. For more information on this spectacular theatre visit the Kilworth House website.
Take advantage of this amazing theatre, eat in the beautiful Victorian Orangery and enjoy the luxury rooms found in this country house.

The Grand Jersey – Sportsman’s Dinner and Dance with Ronan Rafferty

2010-07-23T13:00:00.008+01:00

The Grand Jersey

The Grand Jersey is a 5-star hotel and spa offering stunning sea views across St Aubin’s bay and ideally located within walking distance of Jersey’s capital, St Helier.

On Saturday the 20th of November, The Grand Jersey will be hosting an exclusive sportsman’s dinner with Ronan Rafferty, a professional golfer who is well known as a TV and radio sporting commentator and analyst, not to mention being a member of the winning Ryder cup team in 1998 and winning on many European and Australasian PGA tours.

The dinner will be hosted in the Grand suite and will include a drinks reception, a question and answer session after dinner and live music. Tickets are priced at £75 per person and can be obtained via The Grand Jersey website.

Make the most of this fascinating event by staying at this luxurious 5-star hotel on Jersey.

Luxury Jersey Hotels

Bodysgallen Luxury Hotel in Wales – Garden Tours

2010-07-22T10:08:00.008+01:00

Bodysgallen Hall and Spa

Bodysgallen Hall and Spa is situated in over 200 acres of parkland to the South of Llandudno, with spectacular views of Snowdonia and Conway Castle. This luxury country house hotel has magnificent gardens including a rare 17th century Parterre of box hedges filled with sweet – scented herbs, a rookery with a cascade, a walled rose garden and several follies.

Throughout the year Robert Owen, head gardener at Bodysgallen Hall and Spa for 29 years, runs some excellent garden tours and lectures that provide an insight into the restoration and on-going work that has produced these award winning gardens.

On Monday the 16th of August there will be a tour of the vegetables and cut flower garden, commencing with coffee on arrival. Following the tour, there will be a two course lunch, including coffee and a glass of wine. This costs £30 per person.

Take advantage of this Garden Tour and further days throughout the year, whilst enjoying luxury accommodation and great food in this luxury hotel in Wales.

Written by Andrew Liggins

End of Summer Charity Ball at Buckland Tout-Saints - The Great Gatsby

2010-07-21T13:48:00.007+01:00

Buckland Tout Saints Luxury Country House in Devon
End of Summer Charity Ball – The Great Gatsby

Buckland Tout Saints luxury country house in Devon is located in a delightfully secluded location for a truly relaxing getaway and is only a short drive from the international sailing centre of Salcombe. This stunning William & Mary manor house provides a simply beautiful backdrop for meetings, events, weddings and balls.

The hotel is the jewel in the crown of this breathtaking corner of Devon and is hosting the Buckland Tout Saints End of summer Charity Ball on Saturday the 25th of September. This year’s theme is the Great Gatsby and will provide you with the chance to rediscover the extravagance and luxury of the 1920’s and all in aid of the League of Friends. This is a black tie event, with optional 1920’s themed costume and includes a reception cocktail, 3 course dinner with coffee, live music and dancing until the early hours. You can attend the ball and stay at the hotel at a cost of £150 for two guests. This includes accommodation in a Classic room, breakfast and tickets to the ball. This is a unique event and well worth the journey to a truly inspiring part of the British Isles.

Luxury Devon Hotels

Cateys Awards 2010 - Manager of the Year

2010-07-15T10:18:00.008+01:00

2010 Manager of the Year - David Morgan-Hewitt

On Monday the 5th of July 2010, The Caterer and Hotelkeeper Magazine hosted the prestigious Catey Awards at London’s Grosvenor House. Since their introduction in 1984, the Cateys have highlighted ‘excellence’ within the catering industry.

In 2009 Pride of Britain Hotel, The Goring, received the award for the Independent Hotel of the Year and Nigel Haworth and Craig Bancroft from Northcote Manor, another Pride of Britain Member, received the Special Award.

So it came as no surprise that at this year’s awards David Morgan-Hewitt, the Managing Director of The Goring, received the award for the 2010 Manager of the Year.
Pride of Britain Hotels would like to congratulate David Morgan-Hewitt on his well deserved award.

Written by Andrew Liggins

A Luxury Family weekend in the Lake District

2010-07-13T15:27:00.005+01:00

On the weekend of the 24th and 25th of July, the Windermere Air Show will be taking place in the Lake District. The stunning location and amazing show make this event very popular, however Linthwaite House Hotel unique setting on the hills surrounding Lake Windermere, provides the ideal location to enjoy a luxury weekend away, with great views of the aerial displays and without the crowds.

The show includes the Red Arrows, the Breitling Wing Walkers, the RAF Falcons parachute team, the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight and many more displays.

More information about Linthwaite House Hotel and the event can be found at http://www.prideofbritainhotels.com/Linthwaite_House/ and by following the links to Linthwaite House.

Holbeck Ghyll is another luxury Pride of Britain Hotel located in the Lake District, which offers magnificent views of Lake Windermere and the Langdale Fells.

Luxury Lake District Hotels

July the 4th - One of the social events of the year

2010-07-01T14:24:00.005+01:00

One of the social events of the year - The Castle at Taunton

Pride of Britain Hotels have many interesting properties within their collection. One of their luxury hotels in Somerset, the Castle at Taunton, is hosting its annual garden party from 12.00 noon, on Sunday the 4th of July. The party includes an alfresco, seafood spectacular lunch and is set in the beautiful Rose garden and the castle’s medieval keep. The garden is a secret treasure within the heart of Taunton and will be brought to life by the resident Jazz band.

The event costs £69 per person, includes a glass of champagne, Pimms on arrival and the stunning seafood lunch. Visit the Pride of Britain website and follow the link to the Castle at Taunton for more
information.

Luxury Hotels Somerset

What’s on in Leicestershire? – Stay at Kilworth House Luxury Hotel and enjoy the open air theatre.

2010-06-25T14:11:00.011+01:00

Stay at Kilworth House Luxury Hotel and enjoy the open air theatre.

Kilworth House in Leicestershire has all the attributes of a luxury English Hotel, beautiful rooms, attentive service and fantastic food. As an extra, it has a genuine open air theatre in its vast grounds, and regularly hosts amazing productions throughout the Summer.

Between Wednesday the 2nd of July and Sunday the 4th of July, the multi award winning musical, ‘Guys and Dolls’, will be shown at this superb setting. Listen out for unforgettable songs, such as, ‘Luck Be A Lady’ and ‘Sit Down You’re Rockin’ The Boat’.

For more information please click here and follow the link to Kilworth House Hotel.

Luxury Hotels Leicestershire

Antiques Valuation Day at One of Yorkshire's most luxurious Country House Hotels

2010-06-18T14:40:00.013+01:00

An Antiques Valuation Day at One of Yorkshire's most luxurious Country House Hotels – The Devonshire Arms Country House and Spa

On the 24th of June a member of Pride of Britain Hotels, the Devonshire Arms Country House and Spa at Bolton Abbey, near Skipton, is hosting an Antiques Valuation Day.

If you have ever wondered how much some of your collectables, antiques, jewellery, paintings and other items are worth; this is your chance to find out. This is a free valuation day with Tennants Auctioneers, one of the North’s leading auction houses who will provide professional valuers covering a range of specialisms between 11am and 3pm. Guests can stay on after the event and enjoy a two course lunch for £10, including a glass of house wine. A voucher for this special offer in the Devonshire Arms Brassiere and bar will be supplied upon arrival at the event.
For more information on this event see the Devonshire Arms Hotel and Spa.

Luxury Hotels Yorkshire

The Grand Jersey – One of Pride of Britain Hotels' latest members

2010-06-16T13:05:00.012+01:00

One of Pride of Britain Hotels' latest members, the Grand Jersey is celebrating a hat rick of awards in 2010.

The honours include being awarded the Residential Spa of the year at the Professional Beauty Awards and being awarded five stars by the AA.
Managing Director, Anne-Marie Dowling was also presented with the Emerging Director of the year award by the Institute of Directors.

In addition to the superb bedrooms, the Grand Jersey has several restaurants, including the Terrace, which is open throughout the summer, serving barbecue food and other alfresco cuisine, a champagne lounge, the award winning spa and conference facilities that include a private cinema.

Please visit the website to find out more about this award winning hotel and the chance to win £250 of Pride of Britain luxury hotel gift vouchers.

Luxury Hotels Jersey

The Whisky Bar at the Torridon Hotel is awarded gold status – Pride of Britain luxury hotels in Scotland

2010-06-14T15:04:00.006+01:00

The Whisky Bar at the Torridon has been awarded gold status as one of the Great Whisky Bars in the World, in the annual roundup by Whisky magazine.

The bar stocks more than three hundred malt whiskies and the staff who run it will give you a thorough introduction to the different flavours and styles of malt whisky, before you find the one that suits your palate. There is no higher accolade than gold status as one of the Great Whisky Bars of the World, yet Colleen Calderwood who runs the bar is always looking out for new brands.

Take advantage of this luxury Scottish hotel and whisky bar. Set in 58 acres of parkland at the end of a magnificent sea loch, The Torridon has one of the most spectacular and idyllic locations in the country and is the perfect place to enjoy a romantic weekend break.

Luxury Hotels Scotland

The UK's first dedicated gin bar - The Feathers Hotel in the Cotswolds

2010-06-11T15:41:00.007+01:00

The UK's first dedicated gin bar - The Feathers Hotel in the Cotswolds

The Feathers at Woodstock in the Cotswolds is one of Pride of Britain’s newest members and after refurbishments in Spring, it is now the proud home of the UK’s first ever gin bar.
The new bar has over fifty different gins, including familiar names such as Beefeater and Bombay, but the star of the bar is the Feathers’ Ultimate Gin and Tonic, which costs £18.75.
This unique drink includes Q Tonic, created with 100% natural ingredients, including hand-picked Cinchona bark (Quinine) from the Peruvian
Andes, Blackwood’s 2007 60% Vintage Dry Gin from Shetland in the far north of Scotland, with ingredients that include Wild Water Mint and Juniper to name but a few.
And the final twist in the perfect gin and tonic is ice cubes made from Blenheim Palace Natural Mineral Water Spring, located just one mile from the Feathers at Woodstock.

To find out more about this luxury hotel in the Cotswolds and other refurbishments such as the twenty redesigned bedrooms, please go to The Feathers page on our website

Luxury Hotels Cotswolds

Events at Bovey Castle in June – Pride of Britain Hotels in the South West of England

2010-06-04T16:29:00.015+01:00

From the 11th to the 13th of June, The Contemporary Craft Fair in Bovey Tracey (just nine miles from Bovey Castle) will be hosting over 165 of the UK’s finest designer makers under one roof. This exciting event will host demonstrations, entertainment, lectures, a children’s craft tent and much more. Drawing both a local and national crowd, this will be a fabulous day out for everyone involved. Bovey Castle are delighted to be one of the main event sponsors, so if you are looking for accommodation during, before or after the event, please go to Pride of Britain Luxury Hotels in the UK

Following this event, Bovey Castle will also be hosting the PGA GOLF EUROPRO TOUR PRO-AM 2010
This is a unique opportunity to play with the next generation of Ryder Cup winners from the golf tour that has produced Westwood, Poulter and many more. Screened on Sky Sports the event is televised across the globe and on the 15th June you can enter the PGA EuroPro Pro-Am, where you will experience some of the best golf in the South West.
The Pro-Am package Costs £1600 for a team of 3 and includes:-
2 nights accommodation at Bovey Castle.
A practice round on Monday the 14th June.
Entry for a team of 3 in the Official Pro-Am on Tuesday the 15th June, where your team will be paired with a top PGA EuroPro Tour professional.
And a fabulous Bovey Castle Gala Dinner on the evening of the Pro-Am.

To find out more about these events, please look at accommodation at Bovey Castle and click on the Bovey Castle link.

Luxury Hotels Devon

Five Star Hotels - News from Pride of Britain Hotels

2010-05-26T11:48:00.005+01:00

Pride of Britain Hotel is awarded five stars
One of Pride of Britain hotels' newest members, The Grand Jersey is celebrating securing five star status. Following a recent inspection by the AA, The Grand has become only the second hotel in Jersey to be awarded the much coveted accolade of five stars. There are currently ninety two five star AA listed hotels in the UK. For more information and special offers at The Grand Jersey

A Pizza and Martini evening on the 28th of May
On the 28th of May, The Arch Hotel in London is having a Pizza and Martini evening in the HUNter486 trendy bar and restaurant. The evening costs £20 per person for two Martinis, accompanied by a delicious classic pizza from the open pizza oven. This promotion takes place on the last Friday of every month. For more information please go to The Arch London and click on their hotel website.

Luxury 5 Star Hotels

Special events at luxury hotels in May – Pride of Britain Hotels

2010-05-24T16:29:00.010+01:00

A cookery day at Dormy House luxury hotel in the Cotswolds.
On the 27th of May Dormy house is offering you the opportunity to take part in a hands on cookery day with the head chef Andrew Troughton. Visitors to this stunning hotel, will have the chance to prepare a starter and desert under the guidance of the catering team. Andrew will be sharing his tips and cooking secrets with you, at this hands on event, which also includes a lunch with an exclusive behind the scenes tour of the Dormy House Kitchen. Guests will be provided with their own cooking space and all of the equipment to prepare the perfect dishes. The day begins at ten in the morning and includes lunch and wine. For more information on this event please go to Dormy House and follow the link to the Dormy House website.

Flowers by Faulkner at Judges Country House Hotel in Yorkshire
On the 28th of May Judges Country House hotel in North Yorkshire is hosting Flowers by Faulkner.
Renowned florist and area demonstrator, Jan Faulkner will be providing flower demonstrations and giving guests the chance to create their very own unique floral arrangements. Flowers and kits are provided and guests take home their creations at the end of the day. The event is held between one and four o clock in the afternoon and includes coffee and tea on arrival, a glass of champagne and Judges afternoon tea. For more information on this event please go to Judges Country House and click on the Judges Country House hotel website.

Luxury Cotswold Hotels
Luxury Yorkshire Hotels

Pride of Britain Hotel, The Goring in London has been voted ‘consistently excellent’

2010-05-21T14:48:00.005+01:00

Pride of Britain Hotel, The Goring in London has been voted ‘consistently excellent’ at the Tatler Laurent-Perrier & Taste of London Restaurant Awards 2010
On the 11th of May Jeremy Wayne, Tatler’s Restaurant Editor, awarded The Dining Room at The Goring Hotel ‘consistently excellent’ at the ninth annual Tatler Laurent-Perrier & Taste of London Restaurant Awards 2010. The ceremony took place at The Langham hotel and the Dining Room at the Goring was selected from a list of high calibre finalists.

The Dining Room at The Goring is renowned for its superbly cooked British food, a legacy that Executive Chef Derek Quelch continues to uphold by using carefully-sourced British produce to create classic British dishes with a modern twist.

Please click here for more information and special offers at the Goring Hotel, including the rate of the century.

WIN £250 of Pride of Britain Hotel Gift Vouchers

2010-05-19T14:40:00.006+01:00

Pride of Britain Hotels launches its online competition.
Simply go on to competition, enter your details in the form and give yourself a chance of winning £250 of Pride of Britain Hotel gift vouchers.
This is a monthly prize draw on the first working day of every month and winners will receive email notification within one week of winning their Prize with further details of how to claim the Prize.
Pride of Britain Hotels gift vouchers can be used as full or part payment for accommodation or meals at any Pride of Britain member establishments and are valid for two years.

Andrew Liggins

Pride of Britain Hotel The Chester Grosvenor and Spa is named the UK’s number one hotel by Expedia

2010-05-17T15:57:00.001+01:00

A member of the Pride of Britain collection, The Chester Grosvenor & Spa in the city of Chester has been named as the UK’s number one hotel in the Insiders’ Select List of the world’s largest online travel booking site, Expedia. The hotel is owned by and named after the Duke of Westminster and his family and is a delightful mixture of traditional and contemporary styles, with Michelin award winning cuisine provided by executive head chef Simon Radley.
For more information on the hotel and the latest special offers please click here

Luxury Hotels London

Pride of Britain Hotel of the year 2010 – Maison Talbooth

2010-05-11T14:52:00.013+01:00

Pride of Britain’s Hotel of the year is the fabulous Maison Talbooth at Dedham in Essex, part of Milsom Hotels and Restaurants. Le Talbooth has been run by the Milsom family since 1952 and has always enjoyed a fine reputation for excellent food and service. Maison Talbooth was purchased later to provide luxury accommodation and was the original founding member of the Pride of Britain consortium.

The award was presented to Paul and Geraldine Milsom by George Goring OBE and David Morgan Hewitt, chairman and managing director of the 2009 award winner, the Goring Hotel in London, where the consortium held its annual lunch on the 10th of May 2010.

Luxury Hotels

Quality’s Tweet

2010-03-31T16:16:00.005+01:00

Pride of Britain Hotels are now on Twitter. You will be able to join us at http://twitter.com/pobhotels

Find out about our collection of thirty six of the finest independently owned and operated luxury hotels in Britain.

Look out for news about our special offers and events or any other events near to our hotels. You will also find other interesting articles about the hotel industry on this page.

Luxury Hotels

Protecting the brand

2010-03-26T16:28:00.010Z

Despite the unrelentingly alarming news on the economy, business remains good for most of the privately owned luxury hotels that appear within the Pride of Britain collection. In fact, this year we have more applications to join than ever but as you will notice the collection has not suddenly grown to 100 hotels!

The reason for this is that all new applicants are first vetted by an existing member who stays anonymously and then reports to our small elected board who must then decide whether to recommend that hotel to the other members. If the answer is yes, a ballot is held to determine whether the hotel can join.This is how we guarantee that whichever hotel you visit in this collection, you will find excellent hospitality that all the other members can confidently recommend.

It doesn't end there. Every two years all existing member hotels are visited by "mystery guests" under the direction of an independent quality control consultant.

All this protects the integrity of the brand... and the quality of your experience.

PH
Luxury Country House Hotels

Special Luxury Hotels

2010-03-18T13:28:00.004Z

The Raffles Hotel in Singapore

This venue is steeped in history and legendary tales, none of which attracted me to this remarkable hotel, I was just pointed in its direction by my father, who in his own way is a pioneer of family travel and tends to know several good hotels around the world.
At this time in my life, we were certainly not luxury accommodation customers, but it seemed wrong not to visit Raffles if we were in Singapore, so we covered up our legs, pretended we were respectable and charmed our way past the porter. Quite pleased with successfully entering the hotel, we took the opportunity to marvel at the architecture, the clientele and generally absorbed what was a spectacular venue.
However the natural draw of the ‘Long Bar’ was too much for us to resist and it was not long before we had spent an entire week’s accommodation budget on a ‘Singapore Sling’, which was actually quite disappointing. This rather sour point was inconsequential, as there was one redeeming feature of this luxury palace that makes it one of my favourite luxury hotels in the World. Our drinks were served with free Pistachio nuts and the floor of the bar was littered with discarded shells. It seemed customary to throw the shells of your nuts on the floor and there were literally thousands of them. It was a novel experience, which somehow fitted in with the surroundings and decor of the bar. Strangely enough I found myself transported back to yesteryear, famous explorers, hunters and Indiana Jones characters. Perhaps I should have remained in my khaki shorts after all.

By Andrew Liggins

Luxury Hotels Around the World

2010-03-12T12:49:00.004Z

I have spent many of my days on planet Earth exploring as much of it as possible. During these forays to forgotten, wild and sometimes surprisingly welcoming lands, I have stumbled across some luxury hotels that could inspire every budding hotelier in the UK. At the timing of visiting most of these hotels, I was in no situation to stay in them, but they were always worth exploring. Maybe I would meet a famous traveller or perhaps it was just the free purified water and the chance to use their luxurious loo!

Treetops Hotel, Aberdares in Kenya
This would not necessarily be classed as a luxury hotel, but considering its wildlife, location and structure I have no doubt it should be. It is the original tree house and world famous for its wildlife and royal connection. In 1932 it was a two room tree house and in 1952 a young English girl climbed the tree house as a princess, the next morning she descended as Queen of her country. During the night her father King George the VI had died and the young princess was heir to England’s throne.
Some of the facilities include a rooftop viewing platform, views of Mount Kenya, a lounge that has trees growing through the structure and an optional buzzer in every room, that alerts guests if something special shows up in the night.

This is an ongoing list, with luxury hotels being added to it regularly, so please contact us if you have any hotels you would like add to this blog.

Andrew Liggins.

Happy 100th Birthday to the Goring Hotel

2010-03-10T12:20:00.001Z

On a still dry night in March, around 600 fabulously smart guests arrived at the front door of The Goring to the sound of a brass band – and not just any brass band – before stepping into a magical party celebrating the 100th birthday of the only five red star hotel in London that is still personally managed by the family whose name appears above the door.

I was lucky enough to be among the happy throng and found my eyes swivelling frequently to glimpse famous faces from the worlds of politics and entertainment while chatting to my friends from the hotel trade.

Managing Director David Morgan-Hewitt read out a charming message from Her Majesty The Queen before Jeremy Goring (grandson of the hotel’s founder) and then his father George (who ran the hotel successfully for over 30 years) made witty and at times touching speeches, followed by dancing to an excellent big band. Needless to say, the hospitality flowed freely in the form of delicious provender, washed down with champagne. Such a party is rare indeed.

For anyone closely connected with the hotel this was an emotional night too because The Goring and it’s peerless team have made us all feel like part of the family. And best thing is this was not the end of an era, just a celebration of its first hundred years. The legend lives on.

Written by Peter Hancock

Pride of Britain Hotels' new blog

2010-03-08T11:53:00.006Z

As the world moves in to the twenty teens, Pride of Britain Hotels are moving with the times and looking to provide the perfect online service. A major part of this will be an interesting and regularly updated blog. The major writers for the blog will be Andrew Liggins and Peter Hancock. Andrew Liggins is in charge of the online media for Pride of Britain Hotels and has an interesting history in the catering industry. From running small bars in boutique hotels, working as a chef in Courchevel, the most exclusive resort in the Alps, working as an adventure tour guide in South America and acting as a chef on treks, managing a gastro pub in a hotel in Stratford upon Avon and finally arriving at POB. His wide variety of knowledge, including experiencing luxury hotels in places such as Singapore and Peru, will help Andrew to bring a fresh approach to the way Pride of Britain Hotels serve its members within the luxury hotel sector. Through out all of these jobs he has been heavily involved in online marketing and website design. For two years he ran the online marketing for an adventure travel company and has also designed and promoted many online websites for a range of different companies.
Peter is the chief executive of Pride of Britain and has 30 years experience in the hospitality industry, from his time managing small hotels in Sussex and Hampshire to more recent work as a publisher of hotel guides before joining the consortium ten years ago. He supplements his modest salary by giving after-dinner speeches and writing for the leading trade magazine Caterer & Hotelkeeper.

Your comments

2010-02-01T10:17:00.005Z

If you have stayed at any Pride of Britain member hotel recently we'd love to hear from you.

Although the consortium has a very strict procedure for hotels wishing to join, backed up by mystery guest visits using a professional consultancy, we still like to receive feedback from "real" customers, whether good or bad. What was the best thing about the hotel or its staff? What, if anything, could be improved? Did it match your expectations of a Pride of Britain member? What would encourage you to try another Pride of Britain hotel?

Please send your comments to peter@prideofbritainhotels.com

Thank you.

Short breaks in early 2010

2009-12-23T12:59:00.003Z

Would you like to receive our big colour newsletter containing offers and ideas for interesting breaks in early 2010? If so please reply to info@prideofbritainhotels.com giving your name and postal address. The newsletter will be distributed at the end of January.

Happy New Year.

Luxury Short Breaks

The perfect gift

2009-12-04T11:17:00.006Z

Still wondering what to give a special friend or client?

Pride of Britain gift vouchers are a most welcome present, accepted as cash at any of the 36 member hotels in the collection and sold in units of £50 or £100.

Valid for 2 years from the date of purchase.

To order please call 0800 089 3929 or go to www.prideofbritainhotels.com/Gift_Vouchers

Luxury Hotels Gift Vouchers

Anyone for polo?

2009-12-01T16:19:00.007Z

On Sunday 12th September 2010 there is to be a polo match in aid of Hospitality Action, one of the hotel industry's main charities.

It takes place at the prestigious Beaufort Polo Club near Westonbirt in Gloucestershire and starts with a champagne reception followed by a 3 course lunch with wine and grandstand seats for the Westonbirt Arboretum Cup polo match, concluding with a traditional afternoon tea in the marquee. Catering is provided by our friends from Calcot Manor Hotel & Spa. All in all, a fantastic day out with good food, good company and exciting sport too.

Tables and sponsorship opportunities are avaiable on a first come, first served basis by contacting Hospitality Action on 0870 351 0160. Your help is very much appreciated.

Luxury Country House Hotels
Cotswold Hotels

Bodysgallen Hall wins Conde Nast Johansens award

2009-11-18T10:13:00.006Z

Bodysgallen Hall, the Pride of Britain member hotel near Llandudno on the spectacular North Wales coast, has been presented with the 2010 "Reader's Award" by the publishers of Conde Nast Johansens guides.

General Manager, Matthew Johnson, said "We are absolutely delighted with this award, particularly as it is based on direct feedback from guests."

The property was recently given to the National Trust and remains one the finest hotels in Britain. It has been welcoming guests for 30 years.

Luxury Hotels in Wales

Bovey Castle joins Pride of Britain

2009-11-16T12:37:00.004Z

The magnificent Bovey Castle hotel, spa and golf course is the latest addition to the Pride of Britain collection of quality hotels. Set in Dartmoor National Park, Devon, this is a relaxing place with outstanding facilities for all the family as well as a great business meeting venue.

It has just been voted 12th in the Sunday Times Travel Magazine's 100 Best Hotels in the World.

Look out for full details on http://www.prideofbritainhotels.com/ shortly.

Hotels In Devon

The Mark of Quality

2009-11-10T13:43:00.004Z

The all new 2010 Pride of Britain Hotels directory goes to print in early December. With a fresh look, reflecting the high quality of the hotels in the collection and also the range of styles from historic grandeur to contemporary chic, our latest publication is a credit to the team at Standout Strategic Design who have created it.

There are some new properties alongside your favourites and all of them have great hospitality to offer.

Order your free copy by contacting us on 0800 089 3929

Luxury Hotels

Pride of Britain's Chef of the Year

2009-10-08T10:19:00.008+01:00

Gareth’s deer leaps to culinary success.

A dish of poached fillet of roe deer with caramelised cauliflower has helped North Wales chef Gareth Jones win a national Chef of the Year contest.

Gareth, head chef at historic Bodysgallen Hall near Llandudno, took the title last week in the final cook-off against two other top chefs from hotels within the Pride of Britain Hotels consortium.

The three chefs (the other finalists were Kevin Broome from The Torridon in the Scottish Highlands, and John Schwarz from Judges Country House Hotel near Yarm, in North Yorkshire) had to create a main-course dish to partner a fine Barbera d’Alba from the Ceretto vineyard in northern Italy. The finalists were selected from a large number of entries from member hotels nationwide.

The cook-off took place at The Spread Eagle Hotel in Midhurst, West Sussex, with Gareth named the best by a tasting panel consisting of the head chef of Historic Sussex Hotels, and representatives of Bibendum wine merchants and the Ceretto Winery. His prize was a trip for two to Piedmont in Italy as guests of Ceretto.

Diners at Bodysgallen Hall will be able to taste the new Pride of Britain Chef of the Year’s venison at the hotel later this month. A three-course lunch in the restaurant costs £22.50 and dinner is £39.

Gareth has been head chef at Bodysgallen for two years. He previously worked as sous chef under the Michelin-starred Simon Radley at The Chester Grosvenor – also a member of the Pride of Britain collection.

Luxury Hotels
Hotels In Scotland

Cycling for charity - again

2009-09-21T16:37:00.007+01:00

Michael Croft, Liam Parr, Craig Beasant and Michele Mella from Calcot Manor Hotel & Spa managed to cycle all the way (108 miles) to Bailiffscourt Hotel in West Sussex to raise money for Hospitality Action, our industry's benevolent organisation.

Picture shows the quartet being welcomed by Bailiffscourt General Manager, Chris Alger who treated them to a fine dinner and much needed beds. The ride took 9 hours.

So far the Calcot team has raised £10,500 and they encourage other Pride of Britain hotels to follow their fine example.

Luxury Country House Hotels

Hotels In Sussex
Hotels In Cotswold

Calling all antique collectors

2009-08-17T15:14:00.008+01:00

Do you fancy a luxury hotel break specially tailored to antique appreciation?

Nicholas Merchant and Aspect Events have produced a great programme of "short breaks for collectors" for 2009 and 2010. Parties are limited to no more than 20 and usually include an interesting talk on different aspects of antique collecting or a visit to a place of particular interest nearby. Many of these events are at Pride of Britain member hotels.

For all the details please see http://www.aspectevents.co.uk/

Luxury Spa Hotels

Bowood joins Pride of Britain

2009-07-30T13:20:00.005+01:00

A brand new luxury hotel in the grounds of the Bowood estate near Calne in Wiltshire, the property of The Marquis of Lansdowne, has become the latest member of Pride of Britain Hotels.

Surrounded by the superb Bowood golf course and with its own state of the art spa, the hotel has 37 very comfortable rooms and 6 suites.

Bowood will very soon be featured on the Pride of Britain web site but in the meantime please see http://www.bowood.org/ for rates and further information or telephone 01249 822228

New London member hotel

2009-07-22T11:40:00.004+01:00

We are delighted to announce that The Arch in Great Cumberland Place has become the latest luxury London hotel to join Pride of Britain. The owners and management of this exciting new property are well known to Pride of Britain and we look forward to working with them.

The Arch is a five-star luxury boutique hotel scheduled to open in late 2009. Formerly called Bryanston Court, six Georgian town houses in Great Cumberland Place, near the glamourous Marble Arch in Central London, are being converted into 82 sumptuous bedrooms and suites with an unashamedly contemporary style, restaurant and bar, lounge, gym and a meeting room.

Watch this space for more news on The Arch in the coming months.

Luxury Hotels
Hotels In London

Pride of Britain wins Marketing Award

2009-06-27T18:47:00.006+01:00

On June 24th, Pride of Britain Hotels were presented with the 2009 Marketing Award from the British Hospitality Association (BHA) by mayor of London, Boris Johnson (picture shows Pride of Britain's chairman, Beppo Buchanan-Smith and Chief Executive Peter Hancock flanking Mr Johnson).

BHA Chief Executive Bob Cotton OBE commented that Pride of Britain was doing a great job in marketing and sales for quality hotels in Britain at a challenging time. The award was presented at the BHA's annual lunch, attended by 650 hotel and catering industry professionals.

Luxury Hotels

Charity cycle rides for Hospitality Action

2009-06-27T16:20:00.004+01:00

Four tough, brave and generous members of the Goring team cycled all the way from central London to the Dormy House Hotel in Worcestershire to raise funds for one of our industry's leading charities, Hospitality Action.

This was the first of many such sponsored rides, the next being from Calcot Manor in Gloucestershire to Bailiffscourt Hotel in Sussex on September 8th (all are Pride of Britain members).

Credit for the whole idea goes to Michele Mella, Restaurant Manager at Calcot Manor and an increasingly fit cyclist himself!

Luxury Hotels

Partners and friends

2009-06-22T15:02:00.012+01:00

The 37 member hoteliers who make up the Pride of Britain consortium know all about working together for common objectives. But did you know that Pride of Britain has a host of commercial partners too? They include American Express, Beam Global Spirits & Wine (now trading as Maxxium), Bibendum Wines, BMW (UK) Ltd, Bruce Stevenson Risk Management, First Drinks Brands, Hildon water, Lloyds TSB Cardnet, Lynx Purchasing, Louis Latour Wines, Moet & Chandon, Molton Brown and Paddy & Scott's coffee.

The consortium also has strong affilliations with other hotel collections abroad, including Ireland's Blue Book, Classic Retreats in Southern Africa and Historic Hotels of Europe.

We are members of the country's leading trade body for our sector, the British Hospitality Association (BHA) and try to play our part in the wider industry through involvement with the Master Innholders, Institute of Hospitality, Tourism Society and the leading charities, Hospitality Action (which gives help to people from the trade who have fallen on hard times) and Springboard UK (which helps disadvantaged youngsters get into worthwhile jobs).

To find out more go to http://www.hospitalityaction.org.uk/ or http://www.springboarduk.net/

They say you can't have too many friends in this industry. How true!

Luxury Hotels

Pride of the National Trust

2009-06-19T12:22:00.006+01:00

Hartwell House (pictured) near Aylesbury in Buckinghamshire is a very special place. Not only has it been painstakingly restored over two decades, it is one of three properties recently donated to the National Trust by Historic House Hotels - one of the largest such donations ever made.

Hartwell was once the home of the exiled King Louis XVIII of France and is now a fabulous luxury hotel with spa and 90 acres of parkland. Its sister hotels are Bodysgallen Hall near Llandudno in North Wales and Middlethorpe Hall on the outskirts of York. All three are members of Pride of Britain and continue to offer dignified hospitality at sensible prices.

Hotels In Buckinghamshire

Country House Hotels

Great British Menu - victory for Nigel Haworth

2009-06-18T09:00:00.005+01:00

Nigel Haworth, chef and joint proprietor of Northcote in Lancashire, showed once again the talent that has helped Northcote become the best place to eat in Lancashire. His winning main course was served to grateful returning British soldiers in the final of the BBC's Great British Menu.

Of course, you don't have to do active service in a war zone to enjoy his food. All you have to do is pick up the phone to Pride of Britain Hotels on 0800 089 3929 and make a reservation!

Hotels In Lancashire
Hotels In North England

The Goring - Hotel of the Year

2009-06-17T12:27:00.004+01:00

Pride of Britain's Hotel of the Year for 2009 is the fabulous Goring in central London. Owned and run by the Goring family since it first opened in 1910 the hotel is unique among 5 star hotels in the capital.

The award was presented to the hotel's chairman George Goring OBE and David Morgan-Hewitt (Managing Director) by well known businessman and politician Steve Norris at Pride of Britain's Annual Lunch.

London Hotels

Welcome to our new blog.

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(pictured: Maison Talbooth at Dedham in Essex, the first ever Pride of Britain member hotel and still going strong after a £1.5m refurbishment)

When Gerald Milsom founded the Pride of Britain consortium in 1982 he insisted that the member hoteliers should have the last word on who could join. This was the only way to guarantee that our quality standards could never be compromised by commercial interests.

To strengthen this, an independent consultant arranges mystery visits to existing member hotels without notice.

Our promise to you is that, whichever hotel you visit in this collection, you will be treated as a valued guest and experience the best hospitality in the area. After all, the reputation of the other members will be at stake!

Peter Hancock
Chief Executive
Pride of Britain Hotels

Find them all on our new web site along with lots of special offers and great value packages: http://www.prideofbritainhotels.com/