As featured in Hotel Owner here.

''Some of Britain’s most historic hotels are bucking the trend in a tough hospitality market with more than £18.5 million invested into refurbishments over the past year.

Seven independent hotels, all operating under the BWH Hotels GB brand, have been committing hundreds of thousands to transformative building work.

The Queen at Chester Hotel is a stand out example - investing £5 million into a luxurious redesign of all 104 bedrooms in the Queen Wing, alongside revamped bar and dining areas.

Another northern hotel: Mount Pleasant Hotel, in Doncaster, has invested £460,000 into its facilities, refurbishing its bridal suite, expanding accessible rooms and adding eight long-stay units.

In the South, Best Western Premier Dover Marina Hotel & Spa has undergone a major £8 million transformation, expanding to 122 rooms, including four Presidential Suites and a Royal Suite. Upgrades include a new bar, banquet hall, conference room and expanded spa facilities.

As the largest group of independent hotels in the UK, BWH Hotels GB, including brands like Best Western and WorldHotels, is supporting its hoteliers to invest in their properties by providing financial security through a steady stream of bookings.

Meanwhile, Barton Manor Hotel & Spa, in Lancashire, has invested more than £5 million into 46 new luxury rooms, including executive spaces with private balconies. A striking glass walkway has also been introduced, offering scenic views for guests.

The Quays Hotel in Sheffield is also undergoing significant changes, with a complete reception overhaul and the introduction of a new dining experience, The Tavern Collective.

In Buxton, Lee Wood Hotel has refurbished all 40 rooms, modernised the corridors and introduced a bootcamp for both guests and locals. Meanwhile, Forest Hills Hotel in Frodsham has modernised its restaurant to The Grill on the Hill, with a refreshed interior and new seating options.

Tim Rumney, BWH Hotels GB CEO, said: “This investment comes at a time when many independent hotels are battling rising costs and economic pressures. 

“Our partnership model provides hoteliers the booking power and support of a global brand, enabling them to future-proof their businesses, enhance guest experiences, all while preserving the unique independence that sets them apart.

“These refurbishments reflect both the resilience and optimism for the future of British hospitality and our commitment to maintaining the quality of our hotels and delivering exceptional value to our guests.”