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Hilton Birmingham Metropole

Birmingham, West Midlands B40 1PP

With a prime location on the NEC complex, just off the M42 and close to the M6, M1, and M5 motorways, Hilton Birmingham

Metropole is only a five-minute walk from the BP Pulse Arena and entertainment complex.

This hotel has a whopping 795 rooms available, from classic doubles to luxury executive suites, providing options for every traveller. Guests can also enjoy a wealth of amenities both nearby and on-site, including three distinctive restaurants, the LivingWell Health Club, BP Pulse LIVE, Bicester Village, and Resorts World.

For an elevated dining experience, Brightsmith on the Water offers an intimate setting overlooking Pendigo Lake, where creative, flavourful dishes are crafted using locally sourced produce and quality ingredients.

What guests say:

Our suite had a great comfortable bed, lovely bathroom, and two work areas if needed. Excellent service from reception, it felt like a well-run hotel with a motivated team!

Burley Manor

Ringwood, Hampshire BH24 4BS

Step into Burley Manor, a historic country house hotel that is steeped in timeless charm, offering a sanctuary for peaceful relaxation, countryside exploration, and indulgent comfort.

Stay in beautifully designed rooms that seamlessly blend historic character with elegant modern touches, or choose the Burley Hut, a converted shepherd’s hut perched on the edge of the tranquil deer park, offering a unique escape.

Guests can dine at the Burley Manor Restaurant, where an elegantly rustic ambience complements culinary artistry, creating the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable meal. Whether it’s savouring a leisurely breakfast, tucking into a sharing-style feast or indulging in an intimate romantic dinner, every moment feels special.

What guests say:

Our stay at Burley Manor was utterly delightful. The room was beautiful, with a luxurious bath and four-poster bed, but the real highlight was seeing deer each morning.

Ellen Kensington Hotel

Kensington, London SW5 0EN

Situated in the beating heart of one of London’s most affluent and exclusive boroughs, the Ellen Kensington Hotel is a luxury boutique property spread across five beautifully interconnected Victorian townhouses.

Designed with the modern traveller in mind, guests can rest easy in rooms and suites that combine contemporary design elements with state-of-the-art technology and thoughtful details. Each bedroom features an ergonomically designed mattress of the highest calibre, ensuring guests check out feeling rested and refreshed.

The Ellen Kensington Hotel serves visually striking dishes day in, day out, combining the best of British ingredients with bold, unexpected Asian flavours. For drinks, the Ellen Bar offers experimental twists on house classics, drawing inspiration from East Asian traditions.

What guests say:

We always have such an amazing time at this hotel. The service is truly five-star, and the staff are beyond professional, always going above and beyond to make us feel cared for.

Picture frost-tipped hedgerows, misty meadows, and low golden light transforming familiar paths into something almost otherworldly.

Our selection of five hotels pairs scenic winter walks with inviting comfort, the perfect combination for those who love to explore by day and unwind in style by night.

Cheshire

Golden Pheasant

Tucked away in the peaceful village of Plumley, The Golden Pheasant Hotel is a charming countryside retreat, offering cosy rooms, hearty food, and a warm welcome. With its rustic interiors, friendly atmosphere, and dog-friendly spaces, it’s the perfect spot to unwind after a day exploring the great outdoors. Just a short drive away lies Tatton Park, one of Cheshire’s most stunning historic estates.

Spread across 1,000 acres of parkland, the estate features elegant gardens, woodland walks, a stately mansion, and even a working farm. Whether you’re admiring the Edwardian-era landscapes, wandering through the grand gardens, or simply soaking in the winter stillness, Tatton Park is a walker’s paradise.

For those who prefer to set off right from the doorstep, there are several scenic routes to enjoy. Choose from a gentle three-mile stroll to Holford Hall, a woodland wander through Holford Moss, or a longer eight and a half-mile loop to Lower Peover, taking in rolling farmland and historic houses along the way.

Donald Judge, CC BY 2.0

CC BY-SA 2.0

Lancashire

The Millstone at Mellor

Nestled at the foot of Lancashire’s breathtaking Ribble Valley, The Millstone at Mellor is a 17th-century coaching inn brimming with warmth, character, and countryside charm. Inside, you’ll find crackling fires, hearty food crafted from the best local ingredients, and the kind of welcome that makes you feel instantly at home.

Get ready to lace up your boots and set out on the Tolkien Trail, a scenic five-and-a-half-mile circular walk through the landscapes that inspired The Lord of the Rings. From the rolling hills to the wooded paths around Stonyhurst College, it’s easy to see how J.R.R. Tolkien found his muse here.

After your winter walk, the hotel’s restaurant awaits, serving the very best of local produce used in seasonal menus that capture the true flavours of the Ribble Valley.

Devon

Durrant House Hotel

With its elegant charm and coastal setting, The Durrant House Hotel in Bideford is ideal for a winter escape. Whether you’re travelling as a couple, a family or group, this North Devon retreat offers comfort, local character and hearty hospitality.

Just a short journey away lies Lundy Island, a wild, windswept paradise where walkers can discover towering cliffs, grassy slopes and spectacular sea views. Free from traffic and noise, the island’s trails promise pure escapism and a deep breath of fresh coastal air.

9.00am - 5.30pm

Back at the hotel, relax and unwind in comfort. Slip into the bubbles of a double hot tub suite, enjoy a drink or dinner made with Devon’s finest ingredients, and let the day fade into a peaceful evening.

Andrew Bone, CC BY 2.0

Hertfordshire

Banyers House

Nestled in the heart of Royston, Banyers House combines Georgian elegance with modern comfort. This beautifully restored Grade II listed building offers a welcoming blend of style and substance, with nine boutique bedrooms, an on-site restaurant, and a relaxed bar area perfect for unwinding after a day of exploring.

Just a short drive away, discover the RSPB Fowlmere Nature Reserve, a 40-hectare haven of reedbeds, chalk streams and wildlife. Wander along its peaceful 3km trail spotting kingfishers, water voles and wintering birds before returning to Banyers House for a hearty dinner and a restful night’s sleep in boutique comfort.

Dining at Banyers House is a delight. The chefs serve up Mediterranean-inspired dishes cooked over a Josper charcoal grill, alongside hand-crafted Neapolitan pizzas made in a traditional wood-fired oven. From leisurely breakfasts to evening cocktails, every meal celebrates fresh, seasonal ingredients and the joy of sharing good food.

Airwolfhound, CC BY-SA 2.0

Somerset

Northfield Hotel

The Northfield Hotel offers a peaceful retreat surrounded by nearly two acres of landscaped gardens, with sweeping views of the coast and The Quantocks.

Step outside to the nearby paths of Exmoor National Park. This vast landscape is a tapestry of moorland, deep valleys and rugged coastline. Wander among red deer, Exmoor ponies and more than 240 bird species. You can also follow the rivers where trout and salmon glide through the water. Every trail reveals a new perspective on this stunning corner of the West Country.

9.00am - 5.30pm

After a day of adventure, return to the hotel to unwind with a delicious meal, coastal views and warm hospitality. Guests can also enjoy a rejuvenating soak in the indoor pool and steam room.

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Monday to Friday, 9.00am - 5.30pm

reservations@infotel.co.uk infotel.co.uk

Working to your budget and location, our reservations experts will find the best accommodation at the best rates and will inform you of the choices available.

You decide which option you prefer and your dedicated Infotel specialist will make the booking(s). You or your chosen contact will then receive confirmation via email or text message.

For clients who use our Bill Back Services, we streamline your business expenses by issuing a consolidated invoice in line with your agreed payment terms.

9.00am - 5.30pm

Holiday Inn Gatwick Worth

Crawley, West Sussex RH10 4SW

Holiday Inn Gatwick Worth is a four-star, AA-accredited hotel in Crawley that provides guests with convenient access to Gatwick Airport and central London, including a 30 minute train journey to London Bridge.

Following a multi-million-pound refurbishment and extension, Holiday Inn Gatwick Worth now offers 158 comfortable, modern bedrooms, including Standard Rooms, Family Rooms, Executive Rooms, Junior Suites, and Accessible Rooms.

For added convenience, the hotel also provides an on-site car park with over 400 spaces, including 16 Pod Point chargers, four of which are 75kW DC rapid chargers.

What guests say:

From start to finish, this is a consistently great airport hotel. The welcome is always friendly, the rooms are comfortable, spotlessly clean and with good amenities.

Station Hotel Maud

Peterhead, Aberdeenshire AB42 5LY

Maggie and Colin are always ready with a warm welcome at the Station Hotel, a cosy country retreat on the edge of the charming village of Maud. With local shops, cafés and friendly faces nearby, it’s the perfect base for exploring the beautiful North East of Scotland, whether guests are visiting for work or a well-earned break.

Guests can expect a high standard of comfort, with a choice of double and en-suite rooms, all pet-friendly and complete with free parking and complimentary Wifi.

Home-cooked meals are served daily, with a popular pizza night every Thursday. And for those staying overnight, a hearty cooked breakfast awaits to start your day the right way.

What guests say:

I have stayed a couple of times now, and it’s always a great stay. Maggie and Colin are very welcoming, and it’s great to see the pub has become a local hub for the community.

A Day in the Life of...

Jing Zhang

Account Director

From managing global corporate accounts to ensuring every guest enjoys a seamless stay, Jing plays a pivotal role at The Queens Hotel and Spa Bournemouth. As Account Director, Jing balances strategy, service delivery, and relationship management across three of Switch Hospitality Management’s four-star properties.

We caught up with Jing to hear about her favourite parts of the job, the challenges she thrives on, and why The Queens Hotel and Spa Bournemouth is such a special place to stay.

How long have you worked at The Queens Hotel and Spa?

I have been working with Switch Hospitality Management for over four years, and we took full ownership of The Queens Hotel and Spa Bournemouth in June 2025.

Can you tell us a little about yourself and your role?

I am part of the Sales Team at Switch Hospitality Management, looking after three four-star hotel properties under the company portfolio, including Park Regis Birmingham, Aparthotel Birmingham and The Queens Hotel and Spa Bournemouth

My role focuses on managing national and global corporate accounts and developing strong relationships with our clients to ensure their travel needs are met efficiently. I also work closely with our operations and reservations teams to make sure everything runs smoothly for our guests, from corporate rate agreements to check-in experiences. It is a dynamic role that combines strategy, relationship management, and service delivery, which I really enjoy.

What's the most challenging part of your job?

The most challenging part is managing situations where something doesn’t go as planned, for example, a last-minute booking issue or a billing concern, especially when guests or clients are under time pressure. It can be stressful, but I actually enjoy turning those situations around and finding quick solutions. It is very rewarding when everything ends well.

What's the best advice given to you?

Focus on solutions, not problems. In hospitality, challenges come up every day, from guest issues to last-minute changes, and it is easy to get caught up in what went wrong. But shifting the mindset to “what can we do right now to fix it?” has really helped me stay calm, positive, and effective under pressure.

What's the most enjoyable part of your job?

I really enjoy seeing the direct results of our work, when a partnership grows, our hotels are recognised or when feedback shows that guests had a great experience because of something we put in place. It is motivating to know that the relationships and systems we build have a real impact on the business.

What

are

the dining options for guests?

Guests can enjoy a range of dining options, including a full buffet breakfast, classic afternoon tea, and an evening menu in the Queens Restaurant featuring locally sourced dishes. The Queens Bar offers light meals, snacks, and drinks throughout the day, with indoor and garden seating available, while room service and a coffee bar provide additional convenience.

Do you have a favourite area of the hotel, and why?

I really love the suites that overlook the garden. They are bright, peaceful, and you can even catch a bit of the sea air from the balcony. It is such a calm space, perfect for guests who want to relax after a day in Bournemouth.

What do you do in your downtime?

I like to make the most of my downtime by spending time outdoors, catching up with friends or reading a good book. I also enjoy trying new restaurants or coffee spots; it is a fun way to relax and get inspired for work.

What do you like the most about the hospitality industry?

What I enjoy most about the hospitality industry is the opportunity to create memorable experiences for people. Every day is different, and I love the challenge of anticipating guests’ needs, solving problems creatively, and seeing the direct impact of our work on their satisfaction. It’s a fast-paced, dynamic environment that keeps me motivated and constantly learning.

Do you have a favourite memory of helping a guest or solving a tricky situation?

One of my favourite memories was helping a corporate group that had arrived during a last-minute booking mix-up. The hotel was nearly full, and there was a risk they wouldn’t have enough rooms. I worked quickly with the reservations and front desk teams to reallocate rooms and arrange alternative options where needed. By the time the group arrived, everything was ready, and they were able to check in smoothly. Seeing their relief and appreciation reminded me of why I love hospitality, turning a potentially stressful situation into a positive guest experience.

What can a guest do in their downtime at your hotel?

Guests at The Queens Hotel and Spa Bournemouth can relax and unwind at the onsite spa, which offers a range of treatments, a sauna, and a swimming pool. They can also enjoy the fitness facilities, take a stroll along the nearby beach, or explore Bournemouth’s vibrant town centre with its shops, cafes, and cultural attractions. For a more leisurely experience, guests can savour afternoon tea in the hotel’s bar or lounge, enjoy drinks with a view of the gardens, or simply relax in their comfortable rooms.

Can you share a funny or unusual story from your time at the hotel?

One funny moment that sticks out was when a guest arrived in a very elaborate costume for a themed corporate event, but had completely forgotten they were attending a formal dinner at the hotel first! Our team had a good laugh helping them make it work for both events, and it ended up being a memorable evening for everyone. It is moments like these that make the job fun and unpredictable.

Why should guests choose to stay at The Queens Hotel and Spa Bournemouth?

Guests should choose The Queens Hotel and Spa Bournemouth for its elegant accommodations, excellent facilities with on-site parking, and prime seaside location. The hotel features comfortable rooms and suites, a relaxing spa with pool and sauna, and a range of dining options including breakfast, afternoon tea, and dinner, all supported by attentive service.

Conveniently located near Bournemouth’s beach, town centre, and local attractions, the hotel is ideal for both leisure and business travellers seeking comfort, convenience, and a memorable stay. Early next year, we will begin refurbishing our leisure facilities, including the spa, swimming pool, and gym, which will create an outstanding new offering in the city.

Click here to find out more and book your stay at the The Queens Hotel and Spa Bournemouth