Today’s news in brief – 17/4/25
Villa Wrea Green, a historic 31-bedroom hotel and wedding venue in Lancashire, has been put up for sale. Located near Preston and set within four acres, the 19th-century property features extensive function suites, lounges, and a restaurant, and holds a four-star AA rating. The hotel has recently benefited from major investment to elevate its premium offering. Martyn Rickels and Anthony Collier of FRP are managing the sale, with Christie & Co marketing the property. The general manager, Jayne Taylor, called it a “golden opportunity” for prospective buyers.
Meanwhile, CoStar data shows a mixed performance for the UK hotel sector in early 2025. Revenue per available room (RevPAR) declined after a relatively strong January, with March seeing the weakest results due to a combination of falling rates, occupancy, and calendar shifts around Easter. April is expected to perform better thanks to improved weather and holiday timing. However, subdued business confidence and economic uncertainty continue to impact weekday trade. Leisure travel remains stronger on weekends, though it hasn’t offset midweek losses. Geopolitical tensions, a drop in US visitors, and new travel authorisation rules for Europeans may also be affecting international demand.
In Glasgow, Voco Grand Central Hotel is launching its first outdoor champagne bar in partnership with Veuve Clicquot. Opening in Spring 2025, the installation is located at the hotel’s Gordon Street entrance and designed to channel the “glamour of a French summer.” The bar enhances the reputation of Champagne Central and adds to recent investments in the Hope Street area. Voco, part of Intercontinental Hotels Group, also recently opened its first net-zero carbon hotel in Exeter, offering sustainable features alongside comfort and modern design.
Danesfield House Hotel and Spa is hosting a special Guest Chef Night on 30 May. The event will feature Amber Francis, 2025’s Great British Menu Champion of Champions, collaborating with the hotel’s executive chef Matthew Edmonds. The pair will serve a bespoke six-course tasting menu celebrating seasonal British produce, paired with fine wines. Francis’ sustainability-driven style and Edmonds’ reputation for seasonal depth promise a memorable culinary evening, concluding with a dessert inspired by Francis’ winning dish.
