Oxford Hotels and Inns Blog

Stealth Assessment Leads To Another Star for Stonefield

2009-06-22T12:31:00.001+01:00

Argyll hotel, Stonefield Castle is celebrating four star rating success after an annual assessment by the AA.

Awarded to hotels that demonstrate high levels of service and guest accommodation - and assessed using quality standards enforced by the AA and UK tourist authorities - the four star award is highly sought after, recognising the efforts that go into making any venue a top destination and visitor experience.

Set in 60 acres of lush woodland gardens just two miles from the fishing village of Tarbert, the 19th century Baronial castle has retained its respectable three star rating for a number years. However, following its £750,000 refurbishment the castle now adds a further star to its well-earned collection.

This award is just one of many the hotel has received having been named this year’s Hotel of Beauty by Hotel Review Scotland. Its restaurant also recently gained an AA Rosette Award for Excellence.

Commenting on their outstanding achievement, Stonefield Castle Hotel’s General Manager, Elaine Fyffe says: “As it was a mystery inspection we were overwhelmed to find out that we had been awarded an additional star and it’s given the staff a real lift and rewarded them for their commitment and efforts over the past months.

“Every day we see how much out guests enjoy staying with us so this really is the icing on the cake and makes all the hard work worthwhile.”

Mark Edwards, Managing Director at Oxford Hotels and Inns, which owns Stonefield Castle, adds: “We strive to ensure every aspect of a guests’ stay is perfect, providing a first class service, a warm welcome and outstanding surroundings which is why I believe this four star rating is so well deserved – well done to the team.”

Oxford Hotels and Inns has a portfolio of over 40 unique properties across the British Isles, offering fine cuisine, luxurious spa treatments, first class conferencing facilities, championship golf experiences, weddings and relaxing retreats.

The Udny Arms Hotel Appoints Award Winning Head Chef

2009-05-05T14:39:00.003+01:00

Twice AA Rosette awarded Kevin Hanlon has been appointed as the new Head Chef at The Udny Arms in Newburgh, Aberdeenshire. With over 12 years experience, Kevin has worked in some of the countries most celebrated and distinguished restaurant kitchens in the country, such as The Savoy Hotel in London and The Harbour Inn on the Isle of Islay.

Over the years, the Udny Arms restaurant has established a reputation for serving the finest, mouth-watering cuisine by serving traditional modern classics, with guests favouring the original sticky toffee pudding in particular. The new Head Chef plans to strengthen and extend the eatery’s quality offering by introducing a new menu that will still have all the traditional classics as well as several of his most popular, signature dishes of seafood and game.

Thrilled about the new appointment and the future for the restaurant, the General Manager of the Udny Arms, Patrick Mercer, said: “Kevin has a wealth of invaluable experience, having worked in some of the countries most respected kitchens, so we’re delighted to welcome him and excited to see his passion and enthusiasm for food create delicious dished for our diners.”

Patrick continues: “The new menu will complement our restaurant’s friendly, rustic atmosphere and I’m eager to find out what our diners think of Kevin’s dishes.”

Located on Main Street, the hotel has 30 luxury en-suite guest rooms with spectacular views over the Ythan River and just a stones throw away for Newburgh Golf Course.

Get A Taste Of Scotland's Heritage

2009-04-09T16:23:00.001+01:00

You can’t visit Scotland without experiencing its whiskey. With a long heritage for blending some of the most famous malts and distilled Scotch, a trip wouldn’t be the same without sampling a wee dram.

The Quaich Bar at the Craigellachie Hotel is nestled in the heart of malt whisky country, Speyside, offers over 700 malts, from 10 year Macallans to exclusive Black Bowmore satisfying evening the most discerning whisky connoisseurs and educating new pallets. The hotel’s in-house whisky specialist is also on hand to offer nosing and tasting sessions, taking guests through a sensory tour of Scotland’s much loved drink.

The famous whisky tour is conveniently on the hotel’s doorstep. With over 52 distilleries in the area and the Speyside Cooperage, where local coopers make the casks, close by, guests can explore every stage of whisky’s history, from creation to tasting.

All of Oxford Hotels & Inns Scottish retreats offer an extensive collection of Whiskies that will give guests a true taste of Scotland while losing themselves in the opulent surroundings of the hotel and beautiful countryside and views.

Pamper Yourself In The Scottish Countryside

2009-04-07T13:13:00.002+01:00

Oxford Hotels and Inns has partnered with the leading luxury British spa and skincare brand, Elemis, extending its exclusive spa facilities in its Scottish properties.

Both Carnoustie Golf Hotel in Angus and Gleddoch House hotel in Glasgow are now fully equipped to offer guests the latest indulgent treatments by fully qualified Elemis therapists, sending you into sensory heaven in the heart of Scotland’s dramatic countryside.

The exclusive treatments include fennel and birch wood or Japanese silk mask therapies to de-stress scalp treatment. The spas also offer extensive health and leisure facilities for guests to take advantage of such as the stream rooms, swimming pools and gymnasium – allowing you to relax and enjoy the tranquillity away from the hustle and bustle of modern life.

Tee Off In The Heart Of Scotland

2009-03-26T09:13:00.001Z

Boasting several championship greens, Scotland is the perfect location for a golf retreat to satisfy the beginner through to the seasoned golfer.

Carnoustie Golf Hotel is home to one of the countries most challenging links and the 136th British Golf Open, and with picturesque views across the sea, the course has tested some of the greatest golfers in history.

Designed in the early 1970’s by Hamilton Stutt, Gleddoch House Hotel has an impressive 18-hole championship course that is arguably one of Scotland’s most scenic courses, located in the Renfrewshire hills against the spectacular panoramic backdrop of the beautiful surrounding countryside.

Perfect for a relaxing weekend break away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, a business get away or to simply test your handicap – Oxford Hotel & Inns golfing retreats will meet and exceed your every need.

Fancy treating the whole family to a trip to the British Isles this Easter but don't want to break the bank? Now's your chance

2009-03-23T15:22:00.002Z

As Easter fast approaches, but the credit crunch continues to take its toll on our purse strings, Oxford Hotels & Inns is offering a selection of Easter promotions, giving you the chance to treat the whole family to a trip to the British Isles without breaking the bank.

The luxury hotel group is offering three night stay packages from the 6th – 18th April which include breakfast and dinner from £135.00 - £150.00 per person, at many of its most popular family hotels, including The Gleddoch House Hotel in Glasgow, Derwent Manor in Northumberland, the Stone House in Staffordshire, the Royal Kings Arms in Lancaster and South Lawn in Hampshire.

Plus, children aged 16 and under stay for free when sharing a room with two adults and a 25% reduction applies on the price per child if they wish to occupy a room of their own. All rates are subject to availability.

Mark Edwards, Managing Director of Oxford Hotels & Inns said: “One of the hardest things for parents looking for a short break or holiday in the UK is finding somewhere that provides them with the opportunity to relax in comfort, but also offers a fun environment for their children. Our hotels are handpicked in the best locations and individually and uniquely decorated to offer just this.”

“Each of our hotels not only provides the perfect base to explore the British Isles, picturesque views and nearby attractions, but they also offer the finest of food, as well as first-rate facilities such as golf courses, state-of-the-art leisure clubs and Elemis Spa’s where Mums can enjoy the very latest treatments.”

He concluded “With these excellent Easter promotions, families can leave behind the hustle and bustle and escape for some fun and relaxation, safe in the knowledge that they will be staying at one of the most charming and unique hotels in the British Isles, and that their trip won’t stretch the purse strings either.”

English Summer Break Packages – 4 nights for the price of 3

2009-03-16T11:58:00.003Z

“…Rest is not idleness, and to lie sometimes on the grass under the trees on a summer's day, listening to the murmur of water, or watching the clouds float across the sky, is by no means a waste of time...” John Lubbock (1834-1913)

Why not settle on our shores this summer and revel in a delightful English summer’s break. With over 15 properties across England and Wales, you’ll be spoilt for choice. Consider a trip to the Ennerdale Country House Hotel and take in the breathtaking Lake District, or perhaps a trip to England’s most envious New Forest in Hampshire and stay at the Southlawn Hotel.

We’ve made it even easier for you this summer, with our amazing giveaway offer of four nights for the price of only three!

We look forward to taking great care of you this summer.

A few of our 4 for 3 night offers are highlighted below:

Per person, per night
New Forest - Southlawn - £114.00
Lancaster -Royal Kings Arms - £ 96.00
Northumbria - Derwent Manor - £105.00
Norfolk - Scole Inn - £ 87.00
Colchester - The George - £96.00
The Lakes - Ennerdale - £90.00
The Wirral - Brook Meadow - £87.00

* These rates are for a minimum of 2 guests sharing a twin/double room. All rates include bed and breakfast and are throughout July 2009 and August 2009. Take advantage of these rates by staying 3 nights and receiving your 4th night absolutely free. All rates are from rates and are subject to availability.

Luxury Gourmet Break packages

2009-03-13T14:33:00.001Z

We are delighted to introduce our new Gourmet Luxury Break packages. We have hand picked 7 properties positioned in enviable locations throughout the British Isles, with firmly established restaurants that stand out in their local area. Food is prepared with care, understanding and skill, using the best quality ingredients.

From havens that hug the rugged coastlines of the Scottish Isles and retreats that nestle in the serene seclusion of a Cornish bay, you’ll be sure to enjoy a magnificent meal with a dazzling view. At the end of your day of indulgence, your bedroom awaits, swathed in utter comfort and tranquility.

Some of our recommended Gourmet Packages*:

Per Person Per Night
Suffolk - Cornwallis - £ 60.00
Speyside - Craigellachie - £ 70.00
Cornwall - The Lugger - £ 100.00
Derbyshire - Risley Hall - £ 60.00
Newmarket - Rutland - £ 55.00
Isle of Skye - Skeabost - £ 60.00
Loch Fyne - Stonefield Castle - £ 70.00
The Highlands - Tulloch Castle - £ 70.00

* These rates are for a minimum of 2 guests sharing a twin/double room - no minimum stay required. All rates include; a 4 course gourmet dinner bed and breakfast and are available from April 2009 to September 2009. All rates are from rates and are subject to availability and exclude all beverages.

Challenge Golf Packages

2009-03-12T13:15:00.002Z

From the Gleddoch House Hotel, Glasgow to Coulsdon Manor and Golf Club in Surrey, you can combine your soothing stay with a round of golf.

For a truly ultimate experience, sample a taste of the infamous Open. After a splendid Scottish breakfast, play the 136th Open Championship course itself at Carnoustie. Come face to face with this challenging links course following in the footsteps of the world’s greatest golfers.

Whether you are seeking a Short Golf Break* or an extended Golf Package* Holiday, we will fulfill your every whim. Here are just some of the exclusive packages available to all our Oxford Hotel residents:

Per Person Per Night
Angus - Carnoustie - £167.50
Glasgow - Gleddoch - £67.50
Surrey - Coulsdon - £67.50
Bury St Edmunds - Suffolk - £67.50

* These rates are for a minimum of 2 guests sharing a twin/double room - no minimum stay required. All rates include; dinner bed and breakfast and are available from March 2009 to October 2009. All rates are from rates and are subject to availability. Please note, golf and tee times need to reserved before the booking is guaranteed

May Bank Holiday Packages

2009-03-04T13:37:00.002Z

At last, winter is behind us, the clocks have moved forward so there are more daylight hours and Spring is finally in the air. So why not celebrate by dusting off those suitcases, leaving the passports at home and booking yourself a delightful extended May bank holiday break.

Whether your choose a relaxing 3 day break at one of our luxurious hideaway properties or perhaps a splendid Scottish castle, we will ensure you make the most of the coming May Bank holidays.

So go ahead and take advantage of one of our special offers running this Spring. Remember, book directly with Oxford Hotels and Inns and we’ll guarantee you the best available rate.

Our May Breaks recommended Bed and Breakfast Rates*

Per Person, Per Night
Inverness - Columba - £ 35.00
Colchester - George - £ 28.00
Oban - Regent - £ 30.00
Aberdeenshire - Udny Arms - £ 29.00
Suffolk - Cornwallis - £ 32.00

* These rates are for a minimum of 2 guests sharing a twin/double room- no minimum stay required. All rates include, bed and breakfast and are available throughout May 2009. All rates are from rates and are subject to availability.

Easter

2009-03-02T15:00:00.002Z

Can there be anything better than the British Isles in the Spring or celebrating Easter at one of our many fine properties?

Children are very welcome at Oxford Hotels and Inns this Easter. We understand that one of the hardest things as parents is to find a holiday that provides you with the opportunity to relax in comfort and luxury while, at the same time, providing a safe and friendly environment for the children, where they can feel relaxed and at home. We are sure that at Oxford Hotels and Inns all the family will have the best time this Easter…..why not bring Grandma and Grandpa too!

Leave the queues behind at the airport and spend time exploring the British Isles this April.

Our Recommended 3 Night Dinner Bed and Breakfast Packages*

Per Person, Per Package
Glasgow - Gleddoch - £ 144.00
Northumbria - Derwent - £ 150.00
Staffordshire - Stone House - £ 135.00
Lancaster - Royal Kings Arms - £ 135.00
New Forest - South Lawn - £ 150.00

* These rates are for a minimum of 2 guests sharing a twin/double room for a total of 3 nights. All rates include, dinner, bed and breakfast and are available from 6th to 18th April 2009. Children aged 16 and under, stay and ear free when sharing a room with 2 Adults. A maximum of 2 children per 2 adults permitted. A 25% reduction on the adult price is applied if children wish to occupy a room of their own. All rates are subject to availability and exclude all beverages.

Mothering Sunday

2009-02-26T13:07:00.001Z

“…All women become like their mothers. That is their tragedy. No man does. That's his….” Oscar Wilde, The Importance of Being Earnest, 1895

With hotels from the tip of Scottish Highlands to the English New Forest coast, you will discover just the right hotel to treat your very special Mother, this Mothering Sunday on March 22nd. With hotels offering you an array of delectable dishes, whether it be locally sourced Isle of Skye Crab at the Skeabost Country House Hotel or freshly caught Cornish lobster at the Lugger, you’ll be truly spoilt for choice.

Treat your mother and the family this March with a visit to one of our notably delightful hotels.

Half Term at up to Half Price - PLUS children under 16 stay free

2008-12-18T11:34:00.001Z

Of course your child’s happiness is paramount, but when the repetitive questioning in the back of the car or the adjacent airline seat gets too much, you sometimes have to search hard to find that saintly inner patience you’ve hoped has developed sufficiently since you became their adoring parent.

We all know that school holidays can be challenging and either a learning wasteland or a learning paradise. The temptations are great for children to spend hours watching television or playing computer games, but with a little ingenuity and planning, the school holidays can be transformed into a great holiday in the British Isles, stretching their minds, exploring new hobbies, and building on skills learned during the school year.

At Oxford Hotels and Inns we have several properties ideal for families looking for adventure, both for active children and parents in need of a little rest and relaxation. Plus, great rates are available, with savings of up to 50%off published rates.

Valentine’s Weekend Getaways

2008-12-08T09:49:00.001Z

St Valentine’s Day falling on a Saturday this year, consider a complete weekend away with the one you love. With a choice of hotels that hug the rugged Cornish coastline, host magnificent views over Scottish lochs and glens, provide golf on World Championship courses, serve exquisite meals in handsome AA Rosetted restaurants or offer truly divine treatments in Elemis Spas, you’ll find the perfect retreat this February with a romantic mini break at Oxford Hotels and Inns.

CARNOUSTIE GOLF HOTEL AND SPA

Two-night Valentine’s Spa Packages from £165 per person Arrive on the Friday night to a chilled bottle of champagne and dine in the Dalhousie Restaurant. Wake up to a crisp winter morning and enjoy an invigorating walk along the coast. Return to a relaxing 30-minute massage and choose from our Aromatherapy, Swedish or Hot Stone therapies. Conclude your day with a romantic Valentine’s dinner for two. If you want to add a round of golf at the 2007 Open Championship course, simply ask us at the time of booking.

To book, call: 01241 411999

GLEDDOCH HOUSE GOLF HOTEL AND SPA

Two-night Golf and Spa Packages from £130 per person Check in on Friday and enjoy dinner overlooking our championship course. The following morning, enjoy a splendid
Scottish breakfast, challenge yourself to a round of golf, then move into our Elemis spa and wind down with one of blissful therapies. Treat yourself for up to an hour and choose from a full body Hot Stone Massage, an Elemis Deep Tissue Massage or any one of our Elemis Skin Specific Facials. Finish with a sumptuous romantic Valentine’s dinner in our intimate restaurant and fall into your luxuriant bedroom.

To book, call: 01475 540711

RISLEY HALL SPA HOTEL

Two-night Valentine’s Spa Packages from £149 per person A Valentine’s Spa break is pure simple satisfaction for both body and spirit. Both of you will receive a back, neck and shoulder massage to truly relax. Indulge yourself with a complimentary bottle of champagne in your room and conclude with a delectable Valentine’s Dinner on the 14th. Stay in bed on the Sunday with a free late check out.

To book, call: 0115 939 9000

SUFFOLK GOLF HOTEL AND SPA

Two-night Golf and Spa Packages from £135 per person Be whisked away from the routines of daily life and transported to sensory heaven with an array of exquisite spa treatments. Choose from a full body massage, Indian head massages, reflexology therapies and Reiki treatments. All in all, have one total hour all to yourself. Perhaps you may wish to challenge yourself to a round of golf on our 18-hole course. Do both or simply just one of them. End your indulgence with a delicious Valentine’s dinner.

To book, call: 01284 706777

Winter at the British coast - not what you’d expect!

2008-12-02T15:34:00.002Z

Britain’s coastline exudes a magnetic charm of its own during the winter months - whether you’re attracted by the drama of waves crashing onto remote rocks or by the crowd-free serenity of an endless beach. And there can be no better tonic for the spirit than a bracing cliff-top walk with the wind in your hair and the tang of sea-spray on your lips, followed by a welcoming warm-up in front of a roaring log fire in one of our snug, seaside retreats.

PORTLOE, CORNWALL

This idyllic, tiny, untouched, fishing village is located on Cornwall’s breathtaking Roseland Peninsula. This little gem plays host to a small working fishing harbour and has been used countless times by location scouts in film and television, all entranced by its pristine rugged charm . The exclusive 17th Century Lugger Hotel, Restaurant and Spa nestles, at ease, in the centre of the village at the top of the harbour slipway, within the tiny cove amid a tangle of lobster pots. It was once frequented by local smugglers but now, a handful of fishermen's cottages and the old lifeboat hut on the water's edge have been converted into a stylish retreat with delectable cuisine and a heavenly spa.

NEW FOREST, HAMPSHIRE

The only way to reveal the New Forest’s hidden gems and truly appreciate the sights, sounds and smells of this coastal forest is to get out there and explore. The New Forest district has a coast some forty miles long. Around 90%of it has some form of nature conservation designation and it is host to many species of wildlife. As a former country house, the South Lawn Hotel offers 24 well-appointed en suite bedrooms, many enjoying fine views over the manicured gardens and beyond. If rest and relaxation is what you are looking for, then the South Lawn is the perfect hotel for your next escape.

ISLE OF SKYE, HIGHLANDS

Skye is renowned for its natural beauty, history and wildlife. The Cuillin Hills, the Red Hills and Blaven have long been favourites with climbers and walkers. Wildlife abounds on the island, with birds from the tiny gold crest to the magnificent golden eagle, mammals from the pygmy shrew to red deer and fish from trout to salmon. The Skeabost Country House Hotel will play host to your Skye adventure. This luxurious hotel, located in private grounds on the edge of Loch Snizort, is steeped in history and has an enchanting period feel and roaring open fires.

New General Manager Of The Royal Hotel Returns To His Roots

2008-11-26T13:00:00.002Z

Alexander McLean has been appointed as General Manager of the Royal Hotel in Thurso, Caithness. With over 15 years of industry experience he joins from the Stotfield Hotel in Moray, which is also part of the national Oxford Hotels & Inns group.

Located on Traill Street, he will maintain and improve the high quality service offered at the 103 room hotel, a former coaching inn built circa 1880.

Excited about the new challenge Alexander says, “I hope to put this well established business on the map, offering excellent service to staying customers as well as the local community who use our hotel facilities. In my previous role I quickly met targets and aim to do the same at the Royal Hotel.

“With over 50 people already booked in for Christmas dinner and a Hogmanay celebration on New Years Eve it is set to be an extremely busy festive season and start to my new role. I’m really looking forward to the opportunity to lead the team next summer when the hotel doubles its staff numbers and fills to capacity during the holiday season.”

Alexander continued, “In my spare time I enjoy spending time with my young family and playing golf. My father’s family are originally from Scotland so I’m returning to my roots having spent 16 years working across the UK.”

Oxford Hotels & Inns Feature In Highly Acclaimed Hotel Guides

2008-11-20T13:36:00.002Z

Following a rigorous inspection process, seven of Oxford Hotels & Inns high-end properties feature in the recently published and highly regarded 2009 Condé Nast Johansens Hotel Guides – ‘Recommended Hotels & Spas Great Britain’ & ‘Ireland and Recommended Small Hotels, Inns & Restaurants.’

The Lugger (Cornwall), Cornwallis (Suffolk), Stonefield Castle (Loch Fyne), Tulloch Castle (Highlands), Craigellachie (Speyside), Skeabost (Isle of Skye, Scotland) and Risley Hall (Derbyshire) have been included within the guides which rates their surroundings, décor, comfort and warmth factor as well as the quality of the various services offered and the overall value for money.

Over 50 dedicated regional inspectors visit thousands of hotels and Inns throughout 60 countries to select only the finest, luxury properties to be included in the comprehensive publications which provide illustrated and detailed information on every property featured.

Mark Edwards, Managing Director of Oxford Hotels & Inns, commented: “Only exceptional properties make it in to the Condé Nast Johansens Hotel Guides, so we’re truly delighted to have seven of our hotels included in the 2009 publications. It is a great testament of our ongoing commitment to provide our guests with outstanding hotels and of course our team’s hard work and dedication to delivering exceptional levels of service.”

He added: “Being included in the Johansens Hotel Guides is not only a huge accolade for Oxford Hotels & Inns, but it will enable us to further increase the number of visitors to each featured property as well as raise our profile as a national, leading hotel and leisure group.”

Elemis Link Up With Oxford Hotels & Inns To Offer Premier Pampering

2008-11-03T10:13:00.001Z

Oxford Hotels & Inns has joined forces with leading luxury British spa and skincare brand, Elemis, to launch an exclusive Inspired Health, Fitness and Elemis Spa collection of properties.

Six hotels across the country are now fully equipped to offer guests indulgent treatments by fully trained Elemis therapists. Risley Hall near Derby, St Mellons Hotel in Cardiff, Suffolk Hotel & Golf Club, The Lugger in Cornwall plus the Carnoustie Golf Hotel and the Gleddoch House Hotel & Golf Club, both in Scotland, also offer an extensive range of health and fitness suites in addition to the first-class spa facilities.

Mark Edwards, Managing Director of Oxford Hotels & Inns, said: “As a well-established and premium brand, Elemis was the perfect partner for us to expand our spa portfolio and offering with. This collection of hotels offers guests the chance to truly spoil themselves.”

Elemis combines natural active ingredients with cutting-edge technology and is available through an elite network of over 1200 spas and salons around the world.

Oxford Hotels And Inns Achieve Conference Benchmark

2008-10-15T14:40:00.005+01:00

Following the launch of its Inspired Meetings and Events service earlier this year, Oxford Hotels & Inns has been awarded the AIM accreditation from the Meeting Industry Association (MIA), the UK and Ireland’s leading professional organisation for the meetings industry.

Twelve hotels within the Oxford Hotels and Inns portfolio currently operate the Inspired Meetings and Events service, and have now been recognised for their high quality service and facilities to achieve the accreditation. They include:

Brookmeadow in South Wirral, the Carnoustie Golf Hotel in Angus, the Columba Hotel in Inverness, the Newton Hotel in Nairn, the Tulloch Hotel in Ross-shire, Stonefield Castle in Argyll, Gleddoch Hotel in Renfrewshire, Derwent Manor in Northumberland, Coulsdon Manor in Surrey, St Mellons in Cardiff, Risley Hall in Derbyshire and Craigellachie in Banffshire.

Mark Edwards, Managing Director of Oxford Hotels and Inns, said: “Having just invested in our own range of dedicated Inspired Meetings and Events destinations, it was important that we received this endorsement from an independent organisation that shares our commitment to providing delegates with the highest quality experience. It also helps to increase our visibility amongst potential buyers.

“We’re really proud of our conference and meetings offering and the individual service that we provide for all conference guests. Whether it’s a private room for just two people or a formal meeting room for 300 delegates, we offer a variety of rooms across all our hotels that are perfect for formal or informal dining, business or special events. The stunning locations of our hotels also provide a great backdrop to any event.”

New Face at Huntly Arms Gets Off to Great Start

2008-08-11T10:53:00.001+01:00

Jill McAlpine, the newly appointed general manager of the Huntly Arms on Charlestown Road in Aboyne has in a matter of months made such an impression that the hotel has seen reservation rates rise in the first half of the year by 28% compared to the same period last year.

Jill, who took over the Oxford Hotel and Inns owned business in February, had previously worked at two other hotels within the group, the Royal Hotel in Thurso and the Norseman Hotel in Wick and at only 25 is seen as one of the rising stars within the group.

Commenting on the move to the Huntly Arms, Jill said, “After five years in my previous role I was looking for a new challenge and I couldn’t have asked for anything better. It’s a great honour to be running what is probably the oldest coaching inn in Scotland which is steeped in history and in such a wonderful location.”

“The hotel has seen a great deal of change over the last year. It has benefited from a substantial refurbishment of the bedrooms and public areas and we’ve enhanced the restaurant offer significantly with improved menus, as well as upgrading our meetings and conference facilities; however the main focus has been to improve customer service.”

Jill’s passion for customer service was boosted following her winning of a scholarship from the Hospitality Industry Trust Scotland and attending the Disney Institute in Florida to learn about the Disney Customer Service philosophy.

Jill continued, “The Americans have always been pioneers in terms of customer service and Disney certainly lead the field. I learnt a great deal during my time in Florida and have made it a priority to ensure that I instil the value of customer service across my team.

“The Huntly Arms has been at the heart of this community for hundreds of years and we’ve made great efforts to welcome back those who have probably not visited us for sometime to see how we’ve changed. Many community groups are now using our facilities as a meeting place and it’s paramount that residents in the village and surrounding area see us as a meeting place for everyone.”

Skeabost Hotel Invests In Its Future

2008-08-08T15:52:00.001+01:00

The Skeabost Country House Hotel, situated on the edge of the idyllic Loch Snizort has implemented an extensive investment programme as part of its continuing commitment to offer the ultimate luxurious hotel experience.

The property, which is part of Oxford Hotels and Inns Oxford Collection, has just completed £150,000 worth of improvements. The bedrooms have all been restyled and individually designed to superior standards, with guests able to enjoy lavish four poster beds, sumptuous furnishings and luxurious en-suite bathrooms.

The hotel’s public bar has also reopened and as the hub of the community it welcomes back all its regular customers. As a great place to unwind and relax, it offers a pool table, juke box, live music nights and now a weekly quiz night has been added to its line up of entertainment. Other investments include general maintenance to the hotel with further improvements throughout the building.

Janet Staddart, general manager of Skeabost Hotel, said: “The improvements to the hotel are part of a long term investment aimed to take Skeabost to the next level of hotel luxury. The hotel is situated in the beautiful surroundings of Loch Snizort and is a fantastic holiday destination. Not only do our guests have the opportunity to enjoy the Scottish countryside we also offer a nine hole golf course and our own private salmon and trout farm, perfect for those who enjoy a spot of fishing.”

Mark Edwards, Managing Director of Oxford Hotels and Inns adds: “It’s our aim to create a select range of luxury properties within our Scottish portfolio of hotels known as the Oxford Collection, each emphasising its own individual characteristics and bespoke charm. Skeabost Country House Hotel is one example of many that we’re currently channelling our energy into developing.”

A Welcome Return to the Loch

2008-07-28T16:22:00.001+01:00

National hotel and leisure operator, Oxford Hotels and Inns has appointed Drew Anderson as hotel manager of the Argyll Hotel situated on the shores of Loch Fyne.

Located in the Royal Burgh Inverary, Drew will lead a team of 25 at the 18th century hotel which is one of the finest and most historic hotels on the West Coast of Scotland. He makes a welcome return to the hotel having previously held the position of hotel manager before heading off to pursue other interests. Yet the lure of the Loch was too much and he returned to fill his previous position of hotel manager.

Drew will be managing the day to day running of the 36 bedroom hotel which offers traditional quality accommodation and conferencing facilities in the superb lakeside setting. Drew, who has 20 years experience in the hospitality and leisure industry, says: “I’m delighted to have the opportunity to take up the post of hotel manager once again. Working in such a picturesque place as Loch Fyne makes me feel tremendously lucky. The hotel has an excellent and dedicated team of staff and I’m, very pleased to back at the helm.”

Mark Edwards, Managing Director of Oxford Hotels and Inns comments: “We are thrilled to welcome Drew back, his experience both with Oxford Hotels and the hospitality and leisure industry as a whole makes him the perfect choice. I look forward to working with him in developing the Argyll hotel even further.”

Oxford Hotels & Inns Signs Up To The Meeting Industry Association

2008-07-23T10:07:00.002+01:00

Following the launch of its Inspired Meetings and Events service earlier this year, Oxford Hotels & Inns has signed up to the Meeting Industry Association (MIA), the UK and Ireland’s leading professional organisation for the meetings industry.

Twelve hotels within the Oxford Hotels and Inns portfolio currently operate the Inspired Meetings and Events service including Brook Meadow in South Wirral, the Carnoustie Golf Hotel in Angus, the Columba Hotel in Inverness, the Newton Hotel in Nairn, the Tulloch Hotel in Ross-shire, Stonefield Castle in Argyll, Gleddoch Hotel in Renfrewshire, Derwent Manor in Northumberland, Coulsdon Manor in Surrey, St Mellons in Cardiff, Risley Hall in Derbyshire and Craigellachie in Banffshire.

Commenting on the decision to join the MIA, Mark Edwards, Managing Director of Oxford Hotels and Inns said: “The MIA set the standard when it comes to the meetings industry. Having just invested in our own range of dedicated Inspired Meetings and Events destinations, it was important that we affiliated ourselves with an independent organisation that shared our commitment to providing delegates with the highest quality experience, whilst increasing our visibility to potential buyers.

“Our MIA membership and commitment to meet the high standards of their AIM accreditation programme ensures potential buyers that we fully meet with their stringent code of practice in terms of compliance in areas such as health and safety, data protection and trade descriptions. It also underlines our commitment to operate legally, ethically and to the standards of excellence that MIA has established since its founding in 1990.

“We are extremely excited about our association with the MIA and look forward to working with them to grow our business and use their expertise in developing a framework around which we can develop our own operational procedures.”

Columba Hotel Celebrates New Four Star Rating

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Management and staff at the historic Columba Hotel on the banks of the River Ness in Inverness are celebrating after the AA awarded the Victorian hotel a ‘four stars’ rating after its annual quality standards inspection.

The hotel which is part of the Oxford Hotels and Inns portfolio joins only a handful of other hotels in the city to reach the four stars standard, and the management and staff are looking forward to welcoming visitors looking for a hotel that offers a greater level of luxury.

Commenting on the new star rating, General Manager Neil Turner said: “We’re all thrilled to have been given four stars and it’s a testament to the hard work that all the staff have put in over the last year.

“The hotel once had a reputation for being a touring venue, but it’s now entering a new era in its 127 year history and we will continue to invest in our collection of facilities and services to ensure we remain at the top of our game and attract an even greater range of guests.

“We’ve made many changes to our offering this year including the opening of our new fine dining venue - Castles Restaurant which features high ceilings and stunning views across the river and towards Inverness Castle; as well as refurbishing our popular Victoria Restaurant in modern vibrant colours and investing in our conferencing facilities which can cater from 4 – 200 delegates.”

The hotel underwent a major refurbishment programme in 2004 with an interior design scheme to complement the Victorian architecture, with a modern twist. The spacious bedrooms feature traditional pieces of furniture with contemporary transitional accessories as well as wireless WiFi broadband internet access.

Lazy Days At The Luscious Lugger

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Surrounded by cliffs and headlands which form part of the Cornish Coastal Footpath and Roseland Peninsula, Portloe possesses an unrivalled beauty and enduring timelessness. The Lugger Hotel sits right on the water’s edge in the centre of this delightful village.

We welcome Caroline Davidson, an exceptional and experienced hotelier, as the new General Manager to the Lugger Hotel. She and her team are waiting for your arrival, expectantly, all looking forward to taking great care of you.

Spoil yourself and allow the Lugger to become your self-indulgent sanctuary.