JOURNEY PARTNERS WITH MASTEL HOSPITALITY TO ACCELERATE INTEGRATION ACROSS HOTEL TECHNOLOGY STACKS
Journey, the market leader in hotel retailing and the hospitality industry’s first unified Hospitality Performance Platform, today announced a new partnership with Mastel Hospitality, a leading hospitality technology consultancy and integration specialist.
The partnership strengthens Journey’s global ecosystem by enabling hotels to more effectively implement, integrate, and optimise Journey within their wider technology stack, particularly across Oracle Hospitality environments.
Unlike traditional technology integrations, the collaboration with Mastel focuses on consultancy-led delivery, supporting hotels in connecting systems, structuring data flows, and ensuring Journey is fully embedded within operational and commercial workflows.
Mastel Hospitality brings deep expertise in system architecture, implementation, and business intelligence, working closely with hotel teams to align technology with commercial strategy. Through this partnership, Journey customers will benefit from faster deployment, more robust integrations, and improved performance across their existing systems.
As hotel technology environments become increasingly complex, the role of integration partners has become critical in ensuring systems work cohesively. By partnering with Mastel, Journey ensures that hotels can unlock the full value of their technology stack without adding operational burden.
Simon Bullingham, CEO and Founder of Journey, said: “The right technology can empower teams to deliver great guest experiences. We are committed to supporting our integrations because that collaboration is critical to success. Mastel’s deep expertise ensures that these can be seamlessly deployed and connected in a way that unlocks value for our clients.”
Rafael Godoy, co-CEO of Mastel Hospitality, said: "For two decades we've helped hotels get more from the systems they've already invested in, and Journey is one of the most compelling platforms to enter luxury hospitality in that time. This is a natural partnership: their platform, our delivery, the hotel's results."
Anibal Merlo, co-CEO of Mastel Hospitality, added: "Every hotel has a bigger version of itself waiting to emerge, more personal service, stronger revenue, experiences guests remember for years. With a platform like Journey and the right guidance behind it, that version stops being a dream and becomes a plan. We want hotels to dare to imagine what they could be, and then we help them build it.”
The partnership will focus initially on supporting joint customers across Europe, with a particular emphasis on Oracle Hospitality ecosystems.
UNIVERSITY COLLEGE BIRMINGHAM ACQUIRES FORMER THE CUBE HOTEL AND MARCO PIERRE WHITE RESTAURANT AS PART OF MAJOR HOSPITALITY INVESTMENT PROGRAMME
University College Birmingham (UCB) has announced the acquisition of the former The Cube Hotel and Marco Pierre White restaurant as the first stage of a major investment programme that will deliver three new hospitality venues across Birmingham, creating more than 150 jobs, while providing world-class training opportunities for hospitality students
The £15 million investment programme also includes the opening of a new neighbourhood restaurant in Harborne, a new café, restaurant and bar at UCB's Summer Row campus, and a full refurbishment of the existing Restaurant at Birmingham College of Food
University College Birmingham has announced the acquisition of two venues within Birmingham's The Cube, marking the beginning of a significant investment programme designed to create exceptional learning environments for the next generation of culinary and hospitality professionals.
The Birmingham College of Food, part of University College Birmingham, will take over the former The Cube Hotel and Marco Pierre White restaurant, transforming the iconic rooftop site with panoramic views across Birmingham and beyond into a new 52-bedroom hotel and restaurant spanning the 23rd, 24th and 25th floors of The Cube.
The venue will operate as a commercial business while supporting students from UCB’s well-established hotel, hospitality, culinary arts, business and events management programmes by providing invaluable hands-on experience in a live hospitality environment. Drawing on the University's extensive expertise, the venue will offer high-quality food and services that represent excellent value, with menus and customer experiences developed and delivered by industry professionals. This commercial model will enable students to gain practical, real-world skills while contributing to a high-quality visitor experience.
The acquisition forms the first stage of a wider programme that will see UCB expand its portfolio of commercial hospitality venues across the city, making initial investments of over £15 million. Alongside the new hotel and restaurant, UCB will open a new neighbourhood restaurant in Harborne and a new restaurant and bar at its Summer Row campus, located in the heart of Birmingham city centre. The existing Restaurant at Birmingham College of Food will also undergo a full refurbishment as part of the investment programme.
Collectively, the new venues will create more than 150 hospitality jobs for people across Birmingham and beyond while providing students with paid employment, apprenticeships, placements and practical learning opportunities alongside experienced hospitality professionals. Students from Birmingham College of Food will gain invaluable real-world experience across a diverse range of commercial hospitality settings as part of their studies.
The investment follows the successful launch of a culinary school in Chelmsley Wood, which offers free training for adults and young people, aiming to give an introduction to working in hospitality or refresh existing skills to get them back into work.
The new programme represents the first phase of UCB's ambition to establish additional hospitality venues across Birmingham, giving students an even broader range of environments in which to develop their skills and prepare for successful careers. The University is proud to be making such a significant investment in Birmingham and in the hospitality sector, at a time when the industry is facing significant challenges. Recruitment is already underway for hospitality professionals to lead each venue, with a particular focus on welcoming University College Birmingham alumni back to help train the next generation of industry talent.
The Birmingham College of Food, as part of University College Birmingham, is recognised as one of the UK's leading providers of culinary and hospitality education. Its on-site restaurant has welcomed diners since the 1960s, making it one of Birmingham's oldest and longest-running restaurants, while its graduates have gone on to enjoy successful careers throughout the hospitality industry, including many Michelin-starred chefs.
Professor Michael Harkin, Vice-Chancellor and Principal at University College Birmingham, said: "This acquisition marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter for University College Birmingham and demonstrates our continued commitment to investing in exceptional learning environments for our students. Over the past five years, we have invested more than £300 million across our campuses, Birmingham city centre and the surrounding communities, and this latest programme represents another significant step forward.
"By creating a collection of high-quality hospitality venues across the city, we are giving our students access to real-world, commercial environments where they can develop the skills, confidence and experience that employers are looking for. At the same time, we are strengthening Birmingham's hospitality sector when it is facing significant challenges by creating new jobs, attracting talented professionals and supporting the city's reputation as a leading destination for hospitality, tourism and culinary excellence. This is an investment not only in our students, but in the future of Birmingham."
David Cumberlidge, Commercial Director, added: “These acquisitions create an incredible opportunity for our students to learn and work alongside experienced hospitality professionals in a range of exciting commercial settings. University College Birmingham has an outstanding heritage, the College of Food, part of our Business School, has trained many Michelin-starred chefs as well as countless hospitality leaders who have gone on to successful careers in Birmingham, the UK and around the world. We're proud that these new venues will also provide opportunities for many of our alumni to return to UCB, bringing their expertise back into the classroom and workplace to inspire and develop the next generation. There is no better place in the UK to study hospitality, where students benefit from industry-leading facilities, paid work opportunities and an exceptional practical learning experience that prepares them for long-term commercial success.”
University College Birmingham provides further and higher education, sixth-form provision, apprenticeships and university courses to more than 10,000 students from Birmingham, the wider region, across the UK and internationally. Its curriculum and skills training span a wide range of disciplines, including Nursing and Health, Business and Finance, Tourism and Hospitality, Computing, Cyber Security, Creative Studies (taking in hair, beauty, theatrical make-up and prosthetics) Digital and IT, Psychology and Social Work, Education, Sustainable Construction and Engineering, and Sport. These programmes are delivered through three academic schools: the Business School, the School of Health, Life Sciences and Education, and the School of Computing, Engineering and Built Environment.
Further updates will be announced in due course. Major redevelopment and upgrade works are taking place over the next three-four months and, as the new venues progress towards completion and opening dates, recruitment information will be published.
For the full list of courses, or to find out more, visit: https://www.ucb.ac.uk/
Warner Hotels celebrates the rise of the Great British summer with unforgettable UK escapes
As Britain embraces one of its biggest staycation summers in recent years, Warner Hotels, the UK’s leading provider of short breaks exclusively for adults, is inviting guests to make the most of the season with the launch of The Great British Break Sale, offering savings of up to 20% on selected short breaks for a limited time. Driven by record sunshine, bustling seaside towns, packed beer gardens, unforgettable sporting moments and a renewed appreciation for Britain's coast and countryside, the nation is rediscovering the joy of holidaying closer to home, making this the perfect summer for a Warner Hotels’ escape.
Available across Warner Hotels’ collection of 16 adult-only destinations, The Great British Break Sale gives guests the chance to enjoy a two- to four-night escape with breakfast, three-course evening meals and live entertainment included as part of every stay. Whether it's sun-filled mornings by the coast, lazy afternoons exploring beautiful gardens, riverside walks or evenings spent enjoying exceptional food, live entertainment and great company, Warner Hotels has everything ready and waiting for the perfect Great British summer escape.
As travellers continue to seek out easy, experience-led getaways without the stress of overseas travel, Warner Hotels offers guests the chance to discover some of Britain's most beautiful destinations, from coastal retreats and countryside estates to premium riverside destinations and historic castles.
Designed around the moments that make a break memorable, every Warner Hotels escape gives guests the freedom to relax, explore and enjoy time at their own pace, whether that’s unwinding with a spa treatment, discovering somewhere new, enjoying exceptional dining or simply sitting in the sunshine with a refreshing drink in hand.
Guests can wander the Capability Brown gardens surrounding Cricket St Thomas in Somerset, embrace paddleboarding and coastal walks at Sinah Warren in Hampshire, or explore the historic surroundings of Studley Castle in the heart of Shakespeare's Country and Bodelwyddan Castle in North Wales. Across the collection, experiences range from Big Green Egg cookery experiences, gin tastings and cheese and wine masterclasses to tennis, outdoor swimming, revitalising spa treatments and beautifully curated food and drink.
For those seeking a more elevated escape, Reserve by Warner Hotels offers three distinctive premium destinations, combining sophisticated dining, exceptional wellness and curated experiences in some of Britain's most beautiful settings. Guests can cruise along the Thames at The Runnymede on Thames in Windsor, enjoy championship golf and an award-winning spa at Heythrop Park in the Cotswolds, or discover the newly refurbished Thoresby Hall on the edge of Sherwood Forest in Nottinghamshire, home to the immersive Blue Room dining experience celebrating the very best of seasonal British produce.
As evening falls, Warner Hotels comes alive with entertainment included as part of every stay. Guests can enjoy West End-style productions, live music, comedy, tribute performances and headline acts, with this year's programme featuring names including Will Young, Michael Ball OBE, Alexandra Burke, Russell Watson and The Stylistics, alongside much-loved tribute shows celebrating artists such as Queen, ABBA and Elton John. Guests have also come together this summer to enjoy some of the nation’s biggest sporting moments on big screens across the hotels’ entertainment spaces.
Each adult-only break includes daily breakfast, three-course evening meals, live entertainment and a choice of activities and experiences, making it easy for guests to enjoy a complete short break with everything taken care of.
David Murdin, Chief Marketing and Experience Officer at Warner Hotels, said:
"Britain is having a moment this summer. We've fallen back in love with our coastline, countryside and the simple pleasure of spending time together, and we're seeing more people choosing experiences closer to home.
"Whether it's relaxing by the water, exploring somewhere new, enjoying exceptional dining or an evening of world-class entertainment, our hotels are all about creating memorable moments and giving guests the time and space to switch off, reconnect and enjoy the best of a Great British escape."
Perfect for guests seeking either a last-minute escape or planning a trip further in advance, Warner Hotels offers the chance to slow down, reconnect and enjoy the moments that make a break feel just right. With up to 20% off selected breaks for a limited time, guests can make the most of the Great British summer across a unique collection of UK destinations.
For more information or to book, visit: www.warnerhotels.co.uk
HOSPA endorses new Marketing Academy to raise professional standards across hospitality
Rob Chamberlain Marketing Academy becomes HOSPA Learning Partner following quality review
The Hospitality Professionals Association (HOSPA) has endorsed the Rob Chamberlain Marketing Academy, recognising the CPD-accredited programme as meeting its standards for quality, relevance and professional value in hospitality learning and development.
The endorsement sees the Academy become an official HOSPA Learning Partner for the next two years. It represents another step towards raising professional standards across hospitality by recognising marketing as a discipline worthy of the same structured development afforded to operational, financial and leadership functions.
Developed specifically for hospitality and meetings and events professionals, the Academy was created to address what founder Rob Chamberlain believes is one of the industry's most overlooked commercial challenges: marketing capability.
While hospitality businesses invest heavily in operational, service and sales development, marketing is often expected to be learned on the job. The result, says Chamberlain, is that many marketing teams become highly proficient at producing activity but receive little formal training in the commercial disciplines that underpin sustainable business growth.
"There's a misconception that marketing is about creating content or managing social media. In reality, those are just outputs. Proper marketing begins with understanding customers, diagnosing commercial opportunities and challenges, making strategic choices and then executing them effectively.
Hospitality has invested enormously in developing operational excellence. I believe it's now time that marketing capability was given the same attention."
The Academy takes marketers through the full marketing process, from market diagnosis and research through to segmentation, targeting, positioning, objective setting, product, pricing, distribution and integrated communications. The programme is delivered entirely online, allowing busy professionals to learn at their own pace while continuing in full-time roles. It is also CPD accredited, with learners receiving 28 CPD points on completion.
Recent Ipsos research has highlighted the scale of the challenge, suggesting that only around one in three marketers meet basic marketing knowledge benchmarks, while those with formal marketing training are significantly more confident, more effective and more likely to deliver measurable commercial results.
As a HOSPA Learning Partner, the Academy has been independently reviewed against HOSPA's endorsement framework, recognising its contribution to professional development within hospitality. The partnership will also create opportunities for closer collaboration on learning initiatives designed to strengthen marketing capability across the sector.
Janel Clark, HOSPA’s Head of Professional Development, commented:
“This endorsement reflects HOSPA’s commitment to supporting high-quality professional development across the hospitality sector, including in marketing. We were particularly impressed by the strength and structure of the Rob Chamberlain Marketing Academy, and by how clearly it addresses a key area of the industry which is ever evolving and often misunderstood. We’re pleased to welcome the Academy as a HOSPA Learning Partner and look forward to working together to help build marketing skills across hospitality.”
Rob Chamberlain added:
"I'm genuinely delighted to become a HOSPA Learning Partner. HOSPA has a long-standing reputation for championing professional standards across hospitality, so to have the Academy endorsed in this way is incredibly encouraging.
My ambition has always been simple: to make proper marketing training more accessible to hospitality professionals. Ultimately, it isn’t about teaching people how to create campaigns. It’s about helping businesses build stronger marketing capability. When everyone is working from fundamental principles, marketing becomes more consistent, more commercially focused and ultimately more effective."
Academy enrolment is open now and available to both individual marketers and organisations looking to build marketing capability across their teams. Alongside individual enrolment, businesses can purchase group cohorts to create a shared marketing language, improve commercial decision-making and provide structured development for marketing teams across single or multi-site operations.
Independent Hotel Show opens registration for 2026
Registration is now open for Independent Hotel Show 2026, in partnership with James Hallam Insurance Brokers, returning to Olympia on 5-6 October. Dedicated exclusively to the luxury, boutique and independent hotel sector, the event brings together hotel owners, general managers and senior decision-makers for two days of inspiration, networking and business growth.
As independent hotels balance rising guest expectations with rapid advances in technology, this year's theme, Shaping Tomorrow, will explore how hospitality businesses can embrace innovation while preserving the individuality and exceptional service that set them apart.
Visitors can expect a carefully curated programme of expert content, practical advice and high-quality suppliers designed specifically for the needs of independent hotels.
Whether investing in technology, planning a refurbishment, refining the guest experience or exploring new revenue opportunities, Independent Hotel Show provides the ideas and connections to help businesses thrive.
The 2026 edition will feature an extensive programme of content across three dedicated stages.
The Hotel Business Stage, in partnership with eviivo, will explore the commercial and operational issues shaping the sector, from profitability and recruitment to branding, sustainability and evolving consumer expectations.
The Innovation Stage will examine the technologies transforming hospitality, including artificial intelligence, automation, guest experience and the future of hotel operations.
Meanwhile, the Social Business Space, sponsored by Zennio, will provide a collaborative environment for peer-to-peer discussions, networking and practical conversations focused on the opportunities and challenges facing today's independent hoteliers.
Alongside the seminar programme, visitors will be able to explore a curated exhibition of leading suppliers spanning hospitality technology, interiors, furniture, amenities, wellness, housekeeping, guest services and operational solutions. From established brands to emerging innovators, exhibitors will showcase products and services designed to help hotels enhance efficiency while delivering exceptional guest experiences.
New for 2026, Independent Hotel Show will be introducing a hosted buyer programme, creating curated one-to-one meetings between hospitality suppliers and qualified hotel owners and operators to encourage valuable business connections and maximise networking opportunities.
Also returning for 2026, the Independent Hotel Show Awards, in partnership with Preferred Hotels & Resorts, will celebrate the individuals, teams and businesses driving excellence across the independent hotel sector, recognising outstanding achievement in areas including design, leadership, innovation and guest experience.
With its specialist focus, carefully curated suppliers and thought-provoking content programme, Independent Hotel Show is an essential event for anyone shaping the future of luxury and boutique hospitality.
Independent Hotel Show 2026 takes place on 5-6 October at Olympia. To secure a complimentary trade ticket and discover everything happening at this year's event, visit independenthotelshow.co.uk.
WILDERNESS RESERVE JOINS RELAIS & CHATEAUX
The Suffolk estate celebrates excellence in hospitality as it joins award-winning global association, Relais & Chateaux
Wilderness Reserve, the extraordinary 6,000-acre private estate nestled within Suffolk's Yox Valley, is proud to announce its partnership with Relais & Châteaux, joining the internationally renowned collection of independently owned luxury hotels and restaurants. Spanning three adjoining estates, Sibton Park, Chapel Barn and the recently unveiled Blyth Estate, Wilderness Reserve offers an exceptional portfolio of 28 houses and cottages set amongst ancient woodland, lakes and parkland. Accommodation ranges from one-bedroom 'lost' cottages, complete with private lakes and rowing boats, to expansive Spa Houses designed for larger gatherings, featuring hot tubs, saunas and steam rooms. Together, they offer complete privacy, flexibility and immersive countryside experiences.
Joining Relais & Châteaux marks a significant milestone in Wilderness Reserve's evolution, recognising the estate's commitment to exceptional hospitality across culinary experiences, wellness, sustainability, design and adventure. Whilst all homes will be available to book under Relais & Châteaux, Sibton Manor, located within Sibton Park Estate, will become available to book by individual room. The estate's remaining principal houses, including Chapel Barn, Blyth Manor and Blyth Barn, will continue to be available exclusively on a whole-house basis.
Francisco Macedo, Chief Operating Officer at Wilderness Reserve, said: "Being accepted into Relais & Châteaux means a tremendous amount to everyone at Wilderness Reserve. It is undoubtedly one of the most respected collections in global hospitality, and this recognition reflects years of investment, hard work and an unwavering commitment to creating something truly special.
"What makes this particularly meaningful is the alignment of values. Our ambition was never to create just another luxury destination. In a market where many experiences can feel increasingly similar, we have deliberately chosen a different path by creating a place that offers complete privacy, genuine flexibility and an authentic connection to nature that is becoming increasingly rare. Whether welcoming a family gathering, a wedding, a corporate retreat or a milestone celebration, Wilderness Reserve gives guests the freedom to experience an entire estate entirely on their own terms.
"Joining Relais & Châteaux is not the finish line. It is both an endorsement of what we have built and a responsibility to continue raising the bar. We look forward to working alongside fellow members around the world and welcoming Relais & Châteaux guests to experience first hand what makes Wilderness Reserve so unique."
New Openings: Otter Lodge and Bothy Studios
Coinciding with the partnership, Wilderness Reserve is introducing Otter Lodge, its newest waterside retreat on Blyth Estate. Positioned on the banks of Blyth Lake, the one-bedroom thatched spa lodge draws inspiration from the otters that inhabit Suffolk's waterways and have become part of the estate's natural character. Conceived as a contemporary interpretation of an otter's den, the lodge offers an immersive retreat that feels intrinsically connected to the surrounding landscape.
Rising above the water, Otter Lodge features panoramic lake views, a private jetty, waterside hot tub, sauna and steam room, alongside interiors that celebrate traditional Suffolk craftsmanship. Reclaimed timber beams, handcrafted pargetting inspired by local reed basket weaving, traditional lime plasterwork, intricate brick detailing and expertly thatched roofs showcase the skills of regional artisans throughout the property. A dramatic central fireplace tells the story of otters gathering, while contemporary comforts, including a Milano Evo Lemi spa treatment bed, air conditioning, a fully equipped kitchen, complimentary minibar and stocked pantry, complete the experience. The lodge establishes a new design for Wilderness Reserve, deeply rooted in place and reflective of the estate's evolving vision for future openings.
Complementing Otter Lodge are the new Bothy Studios, an extension to Blyth Barn designed to accommodate additional guests attending celebrations and events. Available to book alongside Blyth Barn, the four en-suite studios each feature kitchenettes and air conditioning, increasing the property's capacity by eight guests.
Continued Investment in Hospitality Excellence
The Relais & Châteaux accreditation follows a series of strategic senior appointments as Wilderness Reserve enters its next phase of growth under Chief Operating Officer Francisco Macedo.
Erika Steward joins as Director of Hospitality Sales, bringing extensive luxury hospitality experience from Andrew Brownsword Hotels and Iconic Luxury Hotels to lead leisure sales and group bookings. Ricardo Morillo has been appointed Corporate Beverage Director, drawing on more than 17 years' experience, including Cliveden House, to further elevate the estate's food and beverage programme. Executive Chef Matthaios Tsistrakis, with more than two decades of culinary expertise, strengthens Wilderness Reserve's bespoke dining offering through a seasonal, locally sourced approach.
Together, these appointments reinforce the estate's continued commitment to exceptional guest experiences and support an ambitious programme of future developments, including the restoration of Cockfield Hall and the revival of The Griffin in Yoxford as a village pub.
BURGH ISLAND HOTEL ENTERS NEW ERA UNDER GENERAL MANAGER SALLY RUSSELL
Hospitality leader brings operational innovation, guest-focused luxury and a renewed vision for the iconic Devon island retreat
Burgh Island Hotel, the legendary Art Deco retreat set on its own tidal island off the South Devon coast, is celebrating a transformative first year under the leadership of General Manager Sally Russell, who has led a programme of operational modernisation, expanded guest experiences and strengthened the hotel's commitment to sustainability and community engagement.
Since joining Burgh Island, Sally has focused on enhancing the guest experience while carefully preserving the character and heritage that have made the hotel one of Britain's most celebrated coastal retreats. New integrated systems have streamlined hotel, spa and restaurant operations, while upgraded supplier technology has enhanced the Hotel’s relationship with independent Devon merchants and producers.
Alongside this, the hotel has begun exploring the use of emerging technologies, including AI tools to analyse guest feedback and identify operational trends, as well as future-facing developments such as enhanced booking systems, guest-facing digital tools and improved pre-arrival communication linked to tidal access. Internally, Sally has also strengthened the hotel's people processes by introducing robust policies and a more structured approach to recruitment, onboarding and employee development.
Under Sally's direction, Burgh Island is also expanding its programme of immersive guest experiences, from glamorous 1920s and 1930s-themed evenings with live jazz and black-tie dining to new outdoor wellness offerings inspired by the South Devon coastline, including guided walks, cold-water dips and nature-led wellbeing activities currently in development.
Sustainability and community engagement are central to the hotel's future vision, with renewed focus on local sourcing, regional partnerships and reducing environmental impact.
"We are completely intertwined with the local community here," says Sally. "The island only thrives if the people, businesses and environment around it thrive too. Sustainability and community have to sit at the heart of everything we do."
With more than two decades of experience across luxury hospitality, Sally joined Burgh Island following senior roles with Harbour Hotels and Vineyard Group, bringing a people-first leadership style, a passion for authentic guest experiences and a deep appreciation of the theatre and escapism that define the island.
Sally's career began at just 16 in her local village pub and has spanned nearly every operational role in hospitality, from front-of-house and events to senior hotel leadership. A formative experience in Japan at a British-themed mountain hotel helped shape her approach to leadership, embedding a strong focus on precision, teamwork and guest care.
Her leadership also reflects the evolving expectations of modern luxury travellers, with growing emphasis on personalised experiences, wellbeing and meaningful connection to place.
Looking ahead, Sally says her ambition is not to reinvent Burgh Island, but to carefully evolve its legacy for a new generation of travellers.
"The vision is to preserve what makes Burgh Island so magical: its glamour, individuality and sense of escapism, whilst ensuring it continues to evolve sustainably for generations to come," she says.
Accessible via the hotel's famous sea tractor, Burgh Island Hotel remains one of Britain's most iconic hotels, famed for its Art Deco interiors, literary heritage and timeless atmosphere. The hotel famously inspired two of Agatha Christie's most iconic novels and continues to attract guests from around the world seeking a truly immersive and unforgettable escape.
CELTIC MANOR AND ZEN GOLF BUILD NEW MODEL FOR GOLF PARTICIPATION, PERFORMANCE AND WELLBEING
The Zen Green Stage, purchased through the Women’s Golf Legacy Fund, will support player performance, women’s and junior golf, inclusive participation and future health-led initiatives in Wales.
Celtic Manor Resort has acquired a ZEN Golf Green Stage through the Women’s Golf Legacy Fund, marking the start of what ZEN Golf believes could become a first-of-its-kind global partnership model for activating golf technology beyond conventional coaching.
The Green Stage installed in the resort’s Golf Academy uses ZEN’s active terrain technology© to change slopes, creating breaking putts and helping players experience more of golf’s on-course reality within a controlled indoor environment. Golfers will even be able to recreate some of the most famous putts in the sport’s history on the Green Stage, including Graeme McDowell’s decisive putt on the 16th green during the 2010 Ryder Cup at Celtic Manor.
The Women’s Golf Legacy Fund was established with Welsh Government funding, delivered through Sport Wales, to ensure the AIG Women’s Open in Wales delivers long-term benefits, helping address barriers faced by women and girls in golf through more inclusive, family-friendly and gender-equal facilities.
The initiative's purpose aligns with ZEN’s wider vision for Green Stage: not only as an elite coaching and fitting tool, but as infrastructure capable of supporting participation growth, accessible first experiences, community wellbeing, social prescribing and future clinical applications.
With the Green Stage now installed, ZEN Golf will support Celtic Manor and Wales Golf in turning the platform into a long-term asset through staff familiarisation, activation ideas, content planning, programme development and future innovation.
Interactive putting experiences add another layer to the Green Stage proposition. Through ZEN’s enhanced software and the forthcoming ZEN Eye© putting analysis and augmented reality system, Celtic Manor will be able to build immersive putting experiences that combine ZEN’s active terrain technology©, interactive visuals, performance feedback and famous-putt recreations. It turns technical practice into something more interactive and memorable, linking performance, education and entertainment through one connected ZEN Golf ecosystem.
Nick Middleton, Founder of Zen Golf, said:
"It’s truly exciting to realise that the same technology capable of developing elite performance can also help more people discover, enjoy and benefit from golf.
"Putting is often the first meaningful interaction people have with the game. By making that experience more engaging, immersive and accessible, we can help venues create environments where beginners, families, women, juniors, disabled golfers and elite players all learn together and share the same stage.
"We believe this is a world first, and the beginning of a new model for golf. One where technology is not viewed solely as a coaching aid, but as shared infrastructure that supports participation, player development, wellbeing and, ultimately, healthier communities. Celtic Manor has shown real leadership in embracing that vision, and we look forward to working alongside them and Wales Golf to demonstrate what is possible."
The platform will provide Celtic Manor and Wales Golf with a dedicated active-terrain putting environment for elite and development squad sessions, women’s and junior pathways, disability golf, and high-performance putting and coaching sessions, built around slope, break, and on-course putting conditions.
Brian Duncan, Head of Golf, Spa and Leisure at Celtic Manor Resort, said:
"The installation of the ZEN Green Stage represents far more than an exciting new facility for Celtic Manor Resort; it is a significant investment in the future growth, accessibility and inclusivity of golf. We are incredibly grateful to Wales Golf and the Women’s Golf Legacy Fund, whose support was instrumental in bringing this project to life. Growing female participation in golf is a priority for us, and the Green Stage provides a welcoming, engaging and supportive environment where all golfers can develop their skills and confidence while practising one of the most important aspects of the game.
"A busy driving range can feel intimidating so this facility offers a more comfortable and private setting to remove barriers that may otherwise prevent people from taking up golf or progressing their skills. This will be particularly valuable as we prepare to launch our forthcoming New2Golf programme, introducing beginners to the game in a fun, modern and supportive environment.
"As the host venue for Wales Golf's development and elite squads, we are also proud to provide training facilities that support the country's most promising players and this world class technology will also help them prepare for success at national and international level . The Zen Green Stage demonstrates our commitment to promoting golf at all levels and this is an exciting next step for Celtic Manor and the future of the game in Wales."
The project reflects Wales Golf’s strategy, “Everyone’s Game – For Fun, For Sport, For Life.” For Fun, the platform can support gamified putting challenges, beginner engagement and family activity. For Sport, it provides more realistic practice conditions for national squads, development players, coaches and elite performers. For Life, it creates scope for activity around accessibility, wellbeing, lifelong participation and golf’s role in helping people stay active.
Gareth Jenkins, Pathway and High Performance Director, Wales Golf, said:
"Putting is one of our key performance skills, so having access to a quality indoor putting facility and technology at Celtic Manor will help us refine our techniques across a variety of breaks. Expanding year-round access to facilities for our squad players is vital, particularly during periods of adverse weather. Not only will the space benefit our High Performance team, but it will also support beginner sessions.
"As part of the Women's Golf Legacy Fund criteria, Celtic Manor committed to achieving Gold status in the Women in Golf Charter and has already done so. We're delighted to further strengthen the collaboration between Wales Golf and Celtic Manor by utilising this venue to introduce more people to the game and support the development of Wales' best players."
The health and wellbeing dimension reflects wider thinking across golf, including The R&A’s Golf and Health 2021-2025 report and work involving Golf in Society and the European Disabled Golf Association (EDGA). Together, these point to golf’s potential to support physical activity, mental wellbeing, social connection, healthy ageing and more inclusive access, areas that align closely with ZEN Golf’s belief that Green Stage can help venues create more engaging first experiences with the sport.
Beyond structured coaching, the installation creates opportunities for Wales-focused putting challenges, recreations of famous tournament putts, school and community sessions, disability golf events and beginner-friendly experiences designed to make golf feel more accessible.
The installation strengthens Celtic Manor’s position as Wales’ leading golf destination while demonstrating how venue expertise, national strategy and golf technology can come together to support performance, participation and golf’s wider social purpose.
About Celtic Manor Resort:
Celtic Manor Resort is one of Europe’s finest destinations for luxury escapes, family breaks, golfing getaways and business events. Host venue for the 2010 Ryder Cup and the 2014 NATO Summit, the five-star resort is set in more than 2,000 acres of panoramic parkland at the gateway to South Wales and includes a choice of nine restaurants, three championship golf courses, exceptional spas and health clubs, and an array of adventure activities. It has been voted the UK’s Best Hotel at the Meetings & Incentive Travel Awards no fewer than 11 times.
As well as hosting Wales' first Ryder Cup, Celtic Manor has hosted 19 events on the European Tour as well as the Wales Senior Open and, most recently, the 2026 G4D Open for the world's most talented golfers with disabilities. The Twenty Ten Course was purpose built to challenge the world's greatest players at the Ryder Cup and is complemented by two other fine championship layouts in the venue's original Roman Road Course, designed by Robert Trent Jones Sr, and The Montgomerie. Golfing facilities also include a state-of-the-art Golf Academy complete with Toptracer driving range, custom-fitting studios, VIP Lounge and Zen Green Stage with Active Terrain.
About ZEN Golf
ZEN Golf is the creator and global leader of Active Terrain Technology© - a new category of intelligent golf playing surfaces that recreate the changing slopes and contours of the golf course indoors.
Built on the principles of Ecological Dynamics, ZEN's patented Green Stage® and Swing Stage® systems were developed to help practice feel more like playing the real game. By recreating the terrain that shapes every shot, ZEN enables golfers to experience the conditions they encounter on the course, creating learning experiences that are more realistic, engaging and effective.
The company's connected technology platform combines Active Terrain Technology©, Trackman® integration, Zen Eye© and Putting Index® to recreate real playing conditions, capture objective performance data and personalise challenge through meaningful feedback. Together, these technologies support coaching, player development, research, entertainment and participation, while helping attract more people into golf through experiences that are more accessible, immersive and enjoyable.
Today, ZEN technology is trusted in more than 28 countries by leading golf organisations, professional tours, universities, coaching academies, manufacturers, resorts, and indoor golf venues, as well as world-ranked players and coaches. As golf continues to evolve, ZEN is helping redefine how the game is learned, experienced and enjoyed by bringing more of the golf course indoors.
To explore the science behind Active Terrain Technology, discover ZEN's latest innovations and learn how the company is shaping the future of golf, visit www.zen.golf.
CASTLEBRIDGE HOSPITALITY CHAMPIONS “HOSPITALITY BEATS CANCER” WITH FUNDRAISING SUCCESS & ONGOING SUPPORT
Castlebridge Hospitality is proud to reaffirm its commitment to supporting ‘Hospitality Beats Cancer’ who fundraise on behalf of Cancer Research UK. Hospitality Beats Cancer is dedicated to uniting the hospitality industry in the fight against cancer. Earlier this year, colleagues from across the business came together at the company’s annual awards evening, raising nearly £3,000 in a single night for this important cause.
The partnership holds deep personal significance for Castlebridge Hospitality. Across both hotel teams and central support departments, many colleagues have been directly impacted by cancer, whether as survivors themselves or through the experiences of family members and friends who have faced the disease. These shared experiences have driven a strong sense of purpose and solidarity within the organisation, inspiring teams to take meaningful action.
Castlebridge Hospitality continues to build a culture that not only supports fundraising efforts but also prioritises the wellbeing of its people. From providing emotional support to fostering open conversations, the business is dedicated to ensuring that colleagues feel supported during some of life’s most challenging moments.
The funds raised at the awards evening will contribute to the important work carried out by Cancer Research UK helping to fund initiatives that reduce the impact of cancer on people’s day-to-day lives through research, influence and information. The success of the event reflects the generosity and unity of Castlebridge teams, who consistently demonstrate their commitment to making a difference beyond the workplace.
Speaking on behalf of the company, Managing Director, Craig Patterson said, “Cancer has touched so many of us, personally and professionally, and that’s why supporting Hospitality Beats Cancer means so much to our teams. Seeing colleagues come together with such generosity and purpose is incredibly inspiring. It reminds us that, as a community, we can make a real difference. We are proud to stand alongside this cause and will continue to support our people and the wider industry in the fight against cancer.”
Castlebridge Hospitality remains dedicated to continuing its support for Hospitality Beats Cancer throughout the year, building on this momentum and encouraging further fundraising initiatives across its portfolio. By working together, the company hopes to contribute to a future where fewer lives are affected by cancer—and where those who are impacted feel supported every step of the way.
For more information about Castlebridge Hospitality please visit https://www.castlebridgehospitality.co.uk
THE SHEPHERD MAYFAIR TO OPEN ON 1 SEPTEMBER 2026
Ahead of its debut, the boutique Mayfair hotel reveals the first menu of signature restaurant Fayre
The Shepherd Mayfair, the new boutique hotel opening on 1 September 2026 in Shepherd Market, reveals the first menu from its signature restaurant, Fayre.
Standing on one of the most storied plots in London, the hotel occupies the site of Mayfair's oldest house known as 'The Cottage', dating back to 1618, where a shepherd once tended his flock. The fields surrounding the cottage would later become home to the annual May Fair, before the architect and developer Edward Shepherd transformed the area into the intimate urban quarter that still bears his name today. It is a history that runs directly through the hotel's identity and the neighbourhood it calls home.
Located on the ground floor of The Shepherd Mayfair, Fayre is a 62-cover restaurant serving seasonal dishes throughout breakfast, lunch and dinner service. The interior is defined by banquette seating, dark timber panelling and a rich berry-toned palette inspired by mulberry and blueberry hues, while wall coverings by urban artist Adam Ellis animate the space with theatrical scenes referencing the historic fair that once occupied Mayfair’s open fields. Ellis’ creations reinterpret the original May Fair gatherings, from livestock markets and theatres to jugglers and games of chance. Throughout Fayre, the history of Shepherd Market is reflected in both the design and the menu.
Like the hotel, Fayre has been conceived around warmth, familiarity and understated confidence. Rather than chasing trends, the restaurant draws inspiration from the great neighbourhood dining rooms of London, celebrating seasonal British produce, timeless cooking and an atmosphere designed to welcome both regular local guests and first-time visitors alike.
The menu is built around seasonal British produce, celebrating familiar favourites and refined European classics designed to be enjoyed time and time again. Snacks include a lobster & prawn brioche roll and braised beef short rib croquette. Starters range from crispy duck confit salad and citrus-cured trout to scallops. Main courses include Gloucester Old Spot pork chop, a beef Wellington pithivier, dry-aged steaks and seasonal vegetarian dishes.
The menu closes with “Puddings by the Glass”, a signature concept at Fayre in which classic desserts are presented in a tall glass as a nod to the theatre and spectacle of the original May Fair. Launching the series is the strawberry and Champagne trifle, with a new Pudding by the Glass introduced each week inspired by recipes and flavours from the era of the historic fair. Other puddings on the opening menu include Paris-Brest with pistachio mousseline cream and chocolate chips, Baked Alaska with caramelised pear, hazelnut and honey, and blackberry Bakewell tart.
Fayre joins The Lounge, a relaxed café-style space with 46 covers and an outdoor terrace, and Teddy’s, a hidden late-night cocktail bar on the lower ground floor. Together, the three concepts create a collection of spaces that evolve naturally throughout the day, from morning coffee and neighbourhood lunches to late-night cocktails. Designed to welcome both hotel guests and locals, they reflect The Shepherd Mayfair’s wider ambition to become woven into the everyday rhythm of Shepherd Market rather than simply another hotel destination.
Designed by Timothy Shepherd of Shepherd&, The Shepherd Mayfair comprises 82 rooms and suites across six floors. Conceived as a contemporary interpretation of Mayfair's historic mansions, the hotel is rooted in the character of Shepherd Market, offering a neighbourhood-led alternative to the grand hotels traditionally associated with Mayfair.
The Shepherd Mayfair will open its doors on 1 September 2026.
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