RAFFLES LONDON AT THE OWO ANNOUNCES EXCLUSIVE FESTIVE PARTNERSHIP WITH LEGENDARY FRENCH SILVERSMITH CHRISTOFLE
Raffles London at The OWO and Parisian Silverware Maison Christofle are pleased to announce an exclusive festive partnership, elevating the seasonal guest experience across the Whitehall landmark. Expanding on their ongoing global tableware collaboration, Raffles Hotels & Resorts and Christofle are joining forces to transform the hotel into a masterclass in festive elegance, combining Christofle’s centuries-old silver craftsmanship with Raffles London at The OWO’s renowned hospitality.
For almost two centuries, Christofle has adorned some of the world’s most beautiful tables, hotels, and palaces. For this festive season, the Maison has extended its art de vivre beyond the table to dress the magnificent Christmas trees at The OWO, creating an exclusive festive experience.
This December, guests stepping into the hotel’s grand hallway and lobby area will be greeted by a breathtaking festive display featuring two magnificent Christmas trees adorned entirely with exquisite Christofle ornaments and silver decor. Christmas ornaments have long formed an essential part of the Maison’s holiday universe, with bespoke new designs created each year. For 2026, Christofle presents its festive theme, “Under the Tree,” featuring a new collection of ornaments that celebrate the magic and iconic symbols of the season.
Additionally, for the festive season, the usual Italian chandelier that hangs above the Grand Staircase will be replaced with a dramatic spiralling chandelier reminiscent of a fir-tree cone-shape.
The partnership also extends seamlessly into the guest rooms and beautiful suites:
- Artisanal Welcome Treats: Guests arriving for a festive stay will be welcomed with a bespoke soft cookie of dried fruits and grand cru chocolate crafted by internationally acclaimed Pastry Chef Yazid Ichemrahen, served elegantly on a signature Christofle silver platter.
- Festive In-Room Dining: Chef Yazid has created an exclusive seasonal signature cake of 100% vanilla, soft vanilla biscuit, creamily infused with two vanillas (Madagascar and Tahiti) and vanilla whipped cream for the hotel’s In-Room Dining menu, presented on fine Christofle chinaware specially selected for this exceptional indulgence.
- Festive Christofle Yule Log: Chef Yazid has created a spectacular Yule Log for Heritage Suites guests. This is an Almond sponge cake with vanilla cream, hazelnut praline and salt flower, chocolate foam and almond crisp. Served on elegant Christofle chinaware.
- Bedtime Story Experience: To end the evening, guests will discover a thoughtfully curated holiday bedtime story placed on their pillow, celebrating the spirit of craftsmanship and festive magic shared by both houses.
- Curated Collections & Art de la Table: Throughout the activation, guests will discover two of Christofle’s emblematic collections: Malmaison silverware and Malmaison Impériale porcelain. Together, they showcase the Maison’s Art de la Table expertise and distinctive elegance.
"Partnering with Christofle for the holiday season allows us to create truly unforgettable moments for our guests. Christofle represents the pinnacle of French art de vivre, and integrating their legendary design into our lobby decor, culinary presentations, and in-room experiences aligns perfectly with Raffles London's commitment to heritage, elegance, and exceptional service."
Says Olivier Thomas, Managing Director at Raffles London at The OWO.
This festive activation forms part of a broader, global brand partnership between Raffles and Christofle. Rooted in a mutual dedication to glamour, refinement, and culinary excellence, the overarching collaboration sees Christofle’s world-renowned tableware and silver pieces integrated into select Raffles properties worldwide, celebrating the ceremonial rituals of fine dining.
“Christofle and Raffles London at The OWO share the same vision of excellence, heritage and the art of hospitality. This collaboration naturally celebrates the spirit of the Festive Season and the magic of the holidays, in the heart of a capital where our Maison has long had a strong presence, notably through our flagship at Harrods. We are proud to bring Christofle’s savoir-faire and art of celebration to life in such an iconic London landmark.”
Says Hamdi Chatti, CEO President of Christofle.
DELICE DE FRANCE UNVEILS 45 PRODUCT INNOVATIONS IN NEW AUTUMN/WINTER CATALOGUE
Delice de France, one of the UK’s leading frozen bakery specialists, has unveiled its 2026 Autumn/Winter catalogue, containing 45 on-trend, efficiency-driving new products, designed to help kitchens reduce prep time without compromising on artisanal quality.
Available to order from Delice de France now, the new additions are designed to help operators remain at the forefront of bakery trends and innovation.
The range simultaneously centres on labour-saving formats that support kitchens and cafes in combatting labour shortages and skill gaps.
The range includes four new ready-to-prove viennoiseries (Croissant, Pain au Chocolat, Pain aux Raisins and Chocolate Twist), which simply need to be proofed and baked for a golden, buttery finish. There’s also a new ready-to-bake Pistachio Croissant, which enables outlets to capitalise on this enduring flavour demand with ease.
Cafes and garden centres will benefit from a new range of 16-slice layer cakes in popular varieties including Red Velvet, Raspberry Ripple, Rainbow and Lemon & Blueberry, supporting outlets in managing waste and consistency.
Delice de France is also bolstering its afternoon tea range with a new Chocolate & Caramel Tartelette, as well as gluten-free Raspberry and Frangipane Tartelettes and Mini Carrot Cakes.
There are also premium new formats for pastry chefs – a new range of pre-filled 1kg Piping Bags in Frangipane, Crème Pâtissière, and Lemon Cream enables rapid dessert assembly.
Continuing the theme of facilitating artisanal quality with ease, kitchens can now order a ready-to-bake Fine Butter Puff Pastry Sheet – supplied unpricked for maximum rise – a ready-to-prove Butter Puff Pastry Sheet AOP, perfect for creating pastries, tarts, pies and savoury bakes with minimal preparation, and a Pure Butter Puff Pastry (disc-shaped).
The showstopper in the new range is a Croissant Sliced Loaf – a unique loaf made from buttery croissant dough, baked with delicate flaky layers and a soft, tender centre. It is pre-sliced into 10 portions, making it perfect for toasting, sandwiches, or elevating sweet and savoury dishes, such as French toast.
In the savoury category, new pre-folded Pinsa Romana, Pinsa Sheets, and Brioche Burger Buns enable operators to build high-margin lunch offerings rapidly and consistently.
Commenting on the launch of the new range, Delice de France CEO Thierry Cacaly, said:
“Hospitality teams are under pressure like never before to maintain quality while managing kitchen efficiency. We know many outlets are suffering from skill gaps and labour shortages, which is why our focus on new products has gone beyond simply adding innovation consumers want to delivering the efficient solutions kitchens need.
“These additions fill key gaps in our foodservice offering and will set us and our customers up for continued success through this winter and into 2027.”
The Autumn/Winter 2026 catalogue is available to browse now through the Delice de France webshop.
LEONARDO HOTELS CELEBRATES DOUBLE SUCCESS AT THE 2026 BUSINESS TRAVEL AWARDS
Leading hotel group recognised for its commitment to innovation, service excellence and strong corporate partnerships through double-award win
Leonardo Hotels has secured a double award win at the 2026 Business Travel Awards, including GOLD for Business Meetings Partner of the Year – Meetings & Events Venue and SILVER for Business Travel Partner of the Year – Hotel Brand.
Leonardo Hotels was praised by the judges for its practical approach to innovation, particularly its Instant Meetings solution, which simplifies the booking of smaller meetings through real-time availability and pricing. They also highlighted the platform's strong adoption, measurable time-saving benefits and scalability across customers, alongside Leonardo Hotels' continued investment in its meetings and events portfolio and strong sustainability credentials.
The Business Travel Awards celebrate excellence across the corporate travel sector, recognising organisations that demonstrate outstanding leadership, service and partnership. The SILVER award for Business Travel Partner of the Year – Hotel Brand acknowledges hotel groups that have excelled in product and service development while building strong relationships with corporate travel customers over the past 12 months.
Meanwhile, the GOLD award for Business Meetings Partner of the Year – Meetings & Events Venue recognises organisations that have demonstrated exceptional leadership, partnership and development within the meetings and events sector.
Jason Carruthers, Managing Director of Leonardo Hotels UK & Ireland, said:
"We are incredibly proud to have been recognised with both GOLD and SILVER at the 2026 Business Travel Awards. These awards reflect the strength of our offering and our commitment to continually enhancing our business travel and meetings proposition.
"To be recognised by the industry in this way is a fantastic achievement and a testament to the hard work and dedication of our teams across the business. We remain focused on investing in our people, properties and technology to further strengthen the experience we deliver for our customers."
The awards mark another milestone for Leonardo Hotels as it continues to invest in its business travel and meetings offering, while delivering exceptional service for customers across its portfolio.
For more information, please visit www.leonardohotels.co.uk.
SCOTTISH HOTEL GROUP UNVEILS CHRISTMAS LINE-UP - FROM FASHION DAYS TO FESTIVE MARKETS AND HOGMANAY BALLS
Award-winning RAD Hotel Group’s ten-hotel portfolio offers a season of festive dining, shopping, live entertainment and Hogmanay celebrations, with Lochgreen marking its first Christmas as part of the group.
The hospitality group, which won Hospitality & Tourism Business of the Year at the Ayrshire Business Awards this week, has unveiled its 2026 Christmas programme. From Christmas markets and fashion shows to family lunches, festive afternoon teas and Hogmanay balls, bookings are now open.
With ten hotels across Ayrshire, Glasgow, South Lanarkshire and Dumfries, the programme offers everything from an afternoon catching up over festive treats to an overnight escape with Christmas dinner taken care of.
This year also marks the first Christmas for five-star Lochgreen House Hotel & Spa in Troon as part of RAD Hotel Group, bringing its established festive experiences into the group’s seasonal offering and wedding portfolio.
The family-owned Scottish hoteliers are inviting guests to celebrate with friends, family and colleagues through a line-up spanning seasonal dining, party nights, Christmas getaways and New Year celebrations.
FESTIVE TOP PICKS
Christmas shopping, fashion and festive days out
The celebrations begin in November with Lochgreen’s Here Comes Christmas Ladies’ Days, combining independent gift shopping, a fashion show and a live cookery demonstration with its celebrated chef Willie Pike MBE, a Master Chef of Great Britain.
Guests can enjoy morning coffee and homemade shortbread before browsing the exhibitors, followed by a three-course lunch with tea or coffee and a glass of Prosecco.
Tickets cost £50 per person, with events running from November 9–12 and November 16–19, plus additional dates on November 25 and 26. Overnight packages include event tickets, accommodation and breakfast the following morning.
Lochgreen’s wider festive programme also features Musical Afternoon Tea, Christmas party nights, Christmas Day dining and a Hogmanay Gala Ball.
At Seamill Hydro Hotel, the incredibly popular Christmas Markets return to the Firth Pavilion on Sunday, November 15 and Sunday, November 22. Entry is free, and shoppers can browse handmade candles, jewellery, accessories, textiles, perfume and confectionery from local Ayrshire makers, from 11am to 5pm.
Festive Ladies’ Days will bring lunch and live entertainment to participating hotels in December, while Dalmeny Park House Hotel adds a nostalgic twist with its Festive ’80s Revival Ladies’ Lunch. Brig o’ Doon House Hotel will also host a Festive Ladies’ Brunch.
Party nights and family celebrations
Christmas party nights across participating hotels will give friends and colleagues the chance to dress up, dine and dance, with programmes featuring live bands, DJs and festive menus.
At Lochside House Hotel, party nights cost £49.95 per person and include a three-course meal, live entertainment, a DJ and a photobooth. Overnight room and lodge packages are also available for guests keen to make a night of it.
Families can look forward to festive lunches and entertainment at selected venues, including Radstone Hotel and Dalmeny Park House Hotel. Seniors’ events offer another opportunity to get together, with seasonal dining, music and dancing.
Festive food and winter getaways
Seasonal menus will run throughout December at participating hotels, with Festive Fayre dining, afternoon teas and private dining options for gatherings of different sizes.
From turkey with all the trimmings to festive desserts, the menus offer plenty of opportunities to celebrate ahead of Christmas itself.
Christmas Eve, Christmas Day and Boxing Day dining will continue the celebrations, while accommodation packages allow guests to leave the cooking behind and enjoy a festive hotel break.
For those looking for a countryside escape, Lochside’s Christmas and New Year lodge packages offer space to gather with family and friends, with private hot tubs adding to the experience.
The programme continues into Hogmanay, with gala dinners, balls and family celebrations at selected hotels.
Guests can extend their celebrations with Hogmanay accommodation packages and New Year’s Day dining at participating venues.
Aaron Kyle, Director at RAD Hotel Group, said:
“People celebrate Christmas in lots of different ways. Some are organising a night out with colleagues, others want a family lunch or a few days away with everything taken care of.
“We’ve brought those occasions together in this year’s programme, with events running from November through to New Year.
“It’s also our first Christmas with Lochgreen as part of RAD, and we’re pleased to welcome its established festive events into the group’s offering.”
Bookings are now open, and full festive programmes for each hotel and accommodation packages are available to view and download:
- Lochside House Hotel: New Cumnock, Ayrshire, KA18 4PN
https://lochside-hotel.com/christmas-lochside/ - Dalmeny Park House Hotel: Lochlibo Road, Barrhead, Glasgow, G78 1LG
https://dalmenypark.com/christmas/ - The Royal Hotel: 1 Glaisnock Street, Cumnock, Ayrshire, KA18 1BP
https://royalhotelcumnock.com/christmas-royal/ - Hetland Hall Hotel: Carrutherstown, Dumfries, DG1 4JX
https://hetlandhallhotel.co.uk/christmas/ - Radstone Hotel: 3 Ayr Road, Larkhall, South Lanarkshire, ML9 2TZ
https://radstonehotel.com/christmas-radstone/ - Fairfield House Hotel: 12 Fairfield Road, Ayr, KA7 2AS
https://fairfieldhotel.co.uk/christmas/ - Brig o’ Doon House Hotel: Alloway, Ayr, KA7 4PQ
https://brigodoonhouse.com/christmas/ - Seamill Hydro Hotel: 39 Ardrossan Road, Seamill, West Kilbride, KA23 9ND
https://seamillhydro.co.uk/christmas/ - Seamill House Hotel: 31 Ardrossan Road, Seamill, West Kilbride, KA23 9NA
https://seamillhousehotel.co.uk/events/ - Lochgreen House Hotel & Spa: Monktonhill Road, Troon, South Ayrshire, KA10 7EN
https://www.lochgreenhouse.com
THE BLOOMSBURY CLUB REOPENS WITH THE LISTENERS CLUB, A NEW COCKTAIL EXPERIENCE INSPIRED BY FIVE ERAS OF MUSIC
The Bloomsbury Club has reopened with The Listeners Club, a new cocktail experience that takes guests on a journey through five defining eras of music, pairing original drinks with specially curated soundtracks.
The experience begins with Side A – Jazz & Swing and Side B – Blues & Soul, before moving through Side C – Bossa Nova and Side D – R&B & Funk, and culminating in Side E – Present Day. Each chapter of the menu is accompanied by its own Spotify playlist, allowing guests to listen along as they explore the drinks inspired by each musical era.
On arrival, guests are presented with a leather-bound Collector’s Ledger, inviting them to choose their “record” for the evening. Each musical era features three original cocktails alongside a dedicated non-alcoholic B-side, creating a menu designed to be experienced as much through sound as through taste.
Highlights include Monroe Glow, combining butter-washed bourbon, Cognac and sherry; Super Freak, a vibrant mix of grapefruit, basil, coriander and jalapeño; and Midnight City, which brings together Cognac, apple pie, chamomile, verjus and toasted sesame.
Drawing on the atmosphere of record collecting, listening bars and late-night cocktail culture, The Listeners Club invites guests to discover music and drinks side by side, with each selection offering a distinct sense of place, period and personality.
The five accompanying playlists are available on Spotify:
- Side A – Jazz & Swing
- Side B – Blues & Soul
- Side C – Bossa Nova
- Side D – R&B & Funk
- Side E – Present Day
The Bloomsbury Club is now open, with The Listeners Club available for guests to experience throughout the evening.
CLIVET PRESENTS VERSATEMP FLOOR AND VERSATEMP DUCT: A NEW GENERATION OF AIR-CONDITIONING UNITS FOR WLHP (WATER LOOP HEAT PUMP) SYSTEMS DESIGNED FOR MULTI-ZONE ENVIRONMENTS
To ensure thermal and hygrometric comfort for occupants of large multi-zone spaces such as shopping centres, offices and hotels, WLHP (Water Loop Heat Pump) systems play a key role, a closed hydraulic circuit in which water at a neutral temperature acts as a heat transfer medium between the various zones, served by stand-alone heat pumps that use the water in the loop as their heat source. The new generation of VERSATEMP air conditioning units for water loop systems, using R290 and R454C refrigerants, introduces new features that improve their efficiency, environmental impact and manageability.
Clivet launches VERSATEMP, the new generation of stand-alone air-conditioning units for water-loop systems, which heat and cool rooms all year-round using water as the heat source.
“The main advantage of WLHP water-loop systems is that they allow different areas of the same building to be heated and cooled simultaneously,’ explains Damiano Rossi, product manager at Clivet, “For example, if a south-facing office requires cooling and a north-facing one requires heating, the energy and heat dissipated by the units in cooling mode are transferred directly to the water loop and reused by the units in heating mode. This automatically balances the temperature of the loop and minimises the need for the outdoor units to operate, thereby reducing overall energy consumption.”
“The new generation of VERSATEMP units comprises two extremely compact and self-contained versions, ideal for both new builds and the replacement of old systems thanks to their perfect compatibility with existing hydraulic, aeraulic and electrical connections: VERSATEMP FLOOR (1 to 3 kW), a vertical model available in either cased or uncased versions with an elegant finish that blends seamlessly into any interior, and VERSATEMP DUCT (2 to 28 kW), a ceiling-mounted ducted solution designed for horizontal installations in small and medium-sized spaces.
‘As it is a decentralised and modular system, each unit manages its own space completely independently, which is why it is the ideal solution for renovations or refurbishments carried out in phases (e.g. hotels, office complexes or shopping centres),’ continues Rossi.
"It is possible to install or upgrade the system floor by floor or in individual areas without having to halt operations throughout the entire building, whilst spreading the financial investment over time. Furthermore, any maintenance carried out on an individual unit does not affect the operation of the rest of the system.”
Thanks to the wide range of sizes available (from 320 to 650 m³/h nominal air flow rate for FLOOR, and from 320 to 7000 m³/h for DUCT), the new range is the ideal solution for air conditioning in shopping centres, offices, hotels and, more generally, in all large, multi-zone buildings characterised by frequent opposite thermal demands.
All units can be controlled locally via an advanced user interface with integrated Wi-Fi, which also allows control via smartphone and PC using the CLIVET EYE app. With CONTROL4 NRG, the entire system can be managed from a single point, with access to information either via a dedicated interface or remotely via smartphone or web interface.
“Thanks to the use of the refrigerants R290 (VERSATEMP FLOOR) and R454C (VERSATEMP DUCT), the entire VERSATEMP series already complies with the first stage of the F-Gas Regulation due in January ’27, which stipulates that for units under 50 kW – such as WLHPs – only systems using refrigerants with a GWP below 150 may be placed on the market,”
concludes Rossi.
VERSATEMP FLOOR: Air conditioning units for WLHP water-loop systems, available in a vertical cased or uncased version (capacity from 1 to 3 kW, air flow rate from 320 to 650 m³/h). It uses R290 refrigerant (GWP < 150), which complies with the F-Gas Regulation, and is ideal for phased refurbishment projects. It includes built-in Wi-Fi for app-based control.
VERSATEMP DUCT: A ducted ceiling-mounted unit for WLHP water-loop systems (capacity from 2 to 28 kW, air flow rate from 320 to 7000 m³/h), for horizontal installations in multi-zone environments. It uses R454C refrigerant (GWP < 150) and allows the system to be replaced in stages without disrupting the building’s operations.
WARNER HOTELS REDEFINES SPA VALUE PROPOSITION WITH EXCLUSIVE PERMANENT MEDIK8 EXPERIENCE FOR FLAGSHIP RESERVE PROPERTIES
As part of its ongoing brand evolution, Warner Hotels, the UK’s leading provider of short breaks, exclusively for adults, has announced a strategic skincare partnership with pioneering British age-defying skincare brand, Medik8.
The partnership will see the launch of the first permanent Medik8 experiences within Reserve by Warner Hotels, the group's recently launched elite collection of properties, including The Runnymede on Thames (Windsor), Heythrop Park (the Cotswolds), and Thoresby Hall (Nottinghamshire).
Reserve by Warner Hotels is Medik8's first hotel group partner, and among a highly limited number of exclusive UK hotel spas to carry the brand.
The skin lab style experiences are a uniquely personalised, interactive, expert-led experience, designed to deliver Medik8’s renowned clinical and trusted results. The results of the exclusive Medik8 skin analysis will then allow for each treatment to be tailored to ensure therapists target guests’ specific concerns with clinical precision - ultimately ensuring that guests depart not just relaxed, but with visible skin results from the very first treatment.
The newly unveiled spa menu features two star treatments:
The Crystal Retinal Age Defying Facial (60 mins | £99 Introductory Price):
Powered by Medik8’s industry-defining Crystal Retinal and paired with their signature sculpting massage, this rejuvenating facial helps smooth, firm, and brighten the complexion after just one session.
The Expert Facial (30 mins for £60 | 60 mins for £93 Introductory Price):
Crafted by your Medik8 professional, this truly personal experience deeply nourishes, enhances skin clarity and promotes a smoother, more even complexion. Complete with a soothing yet invigorating massage, it rejuvenates both skin and the senses for the perfect restorative reset.
By bringing Medik8’s clinically proven results into their stunning, newly modernised spa spaces, Reserve by Warner Hotels successfully marries absolute relaxation with the high-end spa experience. The partnership perfectly embodies the 'expect the exceptional' promise of Reserve - elevating the guest journey through exclusive experiences, curated dining, boutique residencies and star-studded entertainment.
David Murdin, Chief Marketing Officer at Warner Hotels, commented:
“Life moves quickly and, without taking the time to stop and look around once in a while, it can be easy to miss it. That is precisely why a break at a Reserve by Warner Hotels property is designed to help guests pause, reset and feel reinvigorated at every touchpoint. We are so excited to take our spa experiences to a whole new level, thanks to our brilliant new partners at Medik8. Their deeply personalised, expert treatments bring exactly the kind of thoughtful, human touch that guests can relax into during a break with us.”
Imogen Vaz, UK Head of Marketing & PR at Medik8, says:
“Working with the Reserve By Warner Hotels collection is a fantastic opportunity for the Medik8 brand. We know hotel guests are increasingly demanding more than just relaxation from their spa breaks – they also want visible transformations! By taking residency inside Warners’ prestigious Reserve locations, we’re excited to connect directly with our many skincare fans, who will be delighted at the unique and highly personalised experiences we’ve curated with the incredible Warner Hotels spa teams.”
All Medik8 treatments will be immediately available to book for non-resident day spa guests as part of The Medik8 Skin Reset half day experience, alongside overnight guests, who can select a Skin Lab experience with the spa team at the time of booking. Dedicated overnight wellness and spa packages will be launched over the coming months.
This collaboration represents a significant step in Reserve by Warner Hotels’ brand development, uplifting the spa proposition to meet the demands of an increasingly experience-led consumer. By introducing Medik8, Warner is adopting another sophisticated spa brand to sit alongside existing partner, Temple Spa, who both drive high value guest satisfaction and boost Reserve’s premium differentiation. This is based around three unique, sophisticated properties and an exclusive programme of elevated experiences, such as curated dining, exclusive residencies, headline acts and indulgent spas.
PREFERRED HOTELS & RESORTS EXPANDS PRESTIGIOUS LEGEND COLLECTION AS DEMAND GROWS FOR DESTINATION-LED LUXURY TRAVEL
Eleven unforgettable hotels in some of the world’s most extraordinary destinations reflect growing demand for cultural immersion, nature-forward escapes, personalised city stays, and next-generation resort experiences
Preferred Hotels & Resorts has expanded its prestigious Legend Collection with 11 exceptional properties across Europe, North America, Asia, Africa, and the Middle East, bringing the collection to more than 125 luxury hotels worldwide. Reflecting growing demand for destination-led luxury travel, the new additions showcase key trends shaping the sector, including cultural immersion, regenerative and nature-based escapes, personalised urban experiences, and destination-defining resorts, while reinforcing the collection’s focus on distinctive character, exceptional service, and a strong sense of place.
Preferred Hotels & Resorts, the world's largest independent hotel brand, announces the continued expansion of its prestigious Legend Collection with the addition of 11 distinguished properties in 2026. The growth has brought new representation across Europe, North America, Asia, Africa, and the Middle East, further strengthening a collection that now encompasses over 125 legendary properties worldwide.
From an exclusive retreat on its own island in Venice and a landmark luxury hotel in the heart of Bangkok, to a new forest sanctuary in India and a highly anticipated resort destination in the United Arab Emirates, the 2026 additions exemplify the unique character, exceptional service, and sense of place that define the Legend Collection. Representing the highest echelon of luxury within Preferred Hotels & Resorts' global portfolio, the Legend Collection is home to unforgettable hotels and resorts worldwide that stand apart through their personalised and intuitive service, renowned dining, exquisite accommodations, and spectacular scenery.
“Today’s luxury traveller is not looking for one prescribed idea of the perfect hotel. They are seeking experiences that speak to their individual interests, whether that means reconnecting with nature, engaging with a destination’s cultural heritage, discovering a new culinary perspective, or experiencing an iconic city from a more personal point of view,” said Lindsey Ueberroth, CEO of Preferred Hotels & Resorts. “The latest additions to our Legend Collection reflect this shift while sharing the distinctive character that make each of them a legendary hotel.”
Cultural Destinations with Heritage at the Centre of the Stay
Travellers are increasingly drawn to hotels that preserve the stories, traditions, and architectural identity of their destinations, a shift supported by findings from Preferred Hotels & Resort’s Luxury Travel Report. At Dusit Thani Bangkok, contemporary luxury is expressed through Thai-inspired design, cultural rituals, and the gracious hospitality that has defined this celebrated landmark for more than seven decades. In Morocco, the new Palais Jamaï Fès opening in October 2026 occupies a restored late 19th-century palace overlooking the historic city, offering an evocative gateway to the enduring heritage of Fes. Another new launch, Serras Sevilla, which made its debut in September 2026 in the heart of one of Spain’s most culturally rich cities, provides an elegant base from which to experience its architecture, gastronomy, and Andalusian spirit.
Regenerative and Nature-Based Travel Continue Gaining Momentum
As travellers continue seeking opportunities to slow down and make more conscious choices with their travels, experiencing nature is becoming an increasingly important part of the luxury hotel experience. Set amidst 76 acres of ancient forests of the Western Ghats mountain range in India, The Leela Coorg Forest Sanctuary, which made its debut in July 2026, offers a secluded retreat where guests can immerse in the extraordinary biodiversity, culture, and slower rhythms that define the Coorg region. Along the shores of Nevada’s Lake Tahoe, the LEED Silver-certified Edgewood Tahoe Resort pairs refined lakeside hospitality with sweeping mountain scenery, outdoor experiences, and a strong connection to its alpine setting.
Personalized Urban Stays Offer a More Intimate Way to Experience Iconic Cities
Luxury city travel is becoming more personal, with travellers seeking distinctive hotels that reveal a different side of familiar destinations. Set on its own island in the Venetian Lagoon, San Clemente Palace Venice combines the heritage of Venice with the privacy and opulence of a secluded resort. In Lisbon’s historic Baixa Pombalina district, MYTHIC SANA Downtown Suites offers an intimate and highly personalized base in the heart of the Portuguese capital, with a unique Golden Sleeves butler service that tailors every detail – from in-room cocktails to bath rituals – to each guest's preferences.
Located on Barcelona’s prestigious Passeig de Gràcia, BLESS Hotel Barcelona brings together bold design, gastronomy, fashion, and culture in one of the city’s most vibrant districts, while BLESS Ibiza The Site reimagines the iconic island through a sophisticated lens that blends contemporary luxury with Ibiza’s celebrated lifestyle and creative energy. In Charleston, The Cooper offers a distinctly Southern interpretation of luxury, pairing waterfront views and elegant design with an authentic connection to one of America's most historic cities. Collectively, all of these newly opened in 2026 properties demonstrate how today's most sought-after urban hotels are moving beyond accommodation to become gateways to the culture, lifestyle, and unique rhythm of their destinations.
The Rise of Destination-Defining Resorts
Across the Middle East, significant investment in tourism is giving rise to a new generation of world-class destinations and Wynn Al Marjan Island stands as one of the most anticipated examples of this evolution. Set to debut in Ras Al Khaimah in spring 2027, the landmark development will bring a fully integrated resort experience to the United Arab Emirates for the first time, featuring a dazzling 70-story tower that houses more than 1,500 luxury accommodations, over 20 dining venues, a beach club, and other luxury amenities that include a private marina, lush gardens, and pools.
The Legend Collection members that have joined the Preferred Hotels & Resorts portfolio in 2026 include:
- BLESS Hotel Barcelona (Barcelona, Spain) – New Opening – Launched in August 2026
- BLESS Ibiza The Site (Ibiza, Spain) – New Opening – Launched in June 2026
- Dusit Thani Bangkok (Bangkok, Thailand)
- Edgewood Tahoe Resort (Stateline, Nevada, United States)
- MYTHIC SANA Downtown Suites (Lisbon, Portugal) – New Opening – Launched in December 2025
- Palais Jamai Fes (Fès Médina, Morocco) - New Opening – Launching in October 2026
- San Clemente Palace Venice (Venice, Italy)
- Serras Sevilla (Seville, Spain) – New Opening – Launched in September 2026
- The Cooper (Charleston, South Carolina, United States) – New Opening – Launched in March 2026
- The Leela Coorg Forest Sanctuary (Madikeri, India) – New Opening – Launched in July 2026
- Wynn Al Marjan Island (United Arab Emirates) – New Opening – Launching in spring 2027
CARDEN PARK’S SPORTING AMBITIONS TAKE ANOTHER STEP FORWARD WITH £1M FOOTBALL PITCH
A new £1 million next generation football pitch is helping the Cheshire resort build on its championship golf pedigree and strengthen its credentials as a destination for elite sport.
Carden Park has long established itself as one of the North of England’s leading golf destinations. Now, the Cheshire resort is expanding its sporting offerings even further.
The opening of their brand-new, professional-standard football pitch this September will give Carden Park two dedicated football surfaces alongside two championship golf courses, strengthening the venue's position as a destination for professional clubs and international teams.
The resort’s new international-standard pitch will feature a hybrid grass surface that was installed using innovative VERDEMIX hybrid grass technology. Advanced drainage and automated irrigation systems will also ensure consistent playing conditions throughout the year.
The investment represents a significant development in Carden Park’s position as one of the leading sporting destinations in the North of England.
Carden Park’s two golf courses – the Cheshire Course and Nicklaus Course – have plenty of championship pedigree of their own. The resort has hosted major golf events including the PGA Women’s Professional Championship and PGA Assistants’ Championship, whilst also welcoming the upcoming Women’s PGA Cup later this year.
Overlooking the Cheshire Course is the clubhouse which provides a natural hub for golfers, teams and visiting groups, with dining and social spaces offering somewhere to relax before or after training. Meeting and event facilities also provide opportunities for team briefings and other group gatherings.
Away from their sporting portfolio, Carden Park Hotel houses 197 bedrooms for guests.
In addition, a selection of restaurants and bars, alongside leisure facilities, a spa and extensive meeting spaces, means visiting teams can train, eat, recover and relax without needing to leave the estate.
And with Carden Park set within 1,000 acres of Cheshire countryside, there is plenty of space to complement the facilities.
That combination of size, accommodation and now expanded sporting infrastructure is sure to make Carden Park a leading sports training venue in the north of England.
NEW HOTELIER BUYS 50-BED HOTEL WITH 400-FUNCTION CAPACITY NEAR SALISBURY UK
A hotel close to the cathedral city of Salisbury has been sold to a new hotelier in a deal arranged by joint agents Enterprise Hotels & Hospitality and Simon Stevens Associates.
Yogi Hotels Ltd purchased The Stones Hotel, on the A435 at High Post, around five miles north of Salisbury, for an undisclosed price.
The 50-bedroomed hotel, with a dedicated wedding and event function capacity for 400 guests, was sold on behalf of BGAM Hospitality.
Gavin Wright, founder of Birmingham-based Enterprise Hotels & Hospitality, said: “We’re pleased to have successfully completed this sale on behalf of BGAM Hospitality.
“The Stones Hotel is fitted to an excellent standard throughout and benefits from its proximity to key visitor attractions, offering strong accessibility and appeal to both domestic and international markets.
“Yogi Hotels is a new entrant to the market and by acquiring a fully refurbished hotel with a unique and exceptional 400 capacity function room there is now huge scope for further growth to the venue’s wedding and function business.”
Simon Stevens, founder of Hampshire-based Simon Stevens Associates, said:
“This hotel is free of branding and management, and is in a prominent roadside location with excellent access via a busy main road network.
“It lies in a great marketplace on the edge of the historic cathedral city of Salisbury, with several major military bases and the prehistoric site of Stonehenge also nearby that are significant contributors to the business. We wish the new owners well with what is the first hotel in their expanding investment portfolio.”
The Stones Hotel is a purpose-built hotel on a 3.7-acre freehold site and has 50 ensuite guest bedrooms, with an extensive refurbishment completed in 2025. The venue’s sales revenue in the year ending December 2025 was circa £1.6 million and profits exceeding £200k.
Extensive public areas include a bar and restaurant, with patio terrace seating, and flexible wedding, conference and meeting facilities for up to 400 delegates.
The hotel includes a fitness centre, staff offices and an apartment with potential for conversion and provide four additional guest bedrooms, subject to planning permission. There is a large car park with around 150 spaces and onsite EV charging facilities.
Aman Amin, director of Yogi Hotels Ltd, said: “We’re delighted to be acquiring The Stones Hotel and are really excited about its future. It is a fantastic property in a strong location, with an established business, a great team and significant potential for further growth.
“Our immediate focus will be on working closely with the existing team and building on what is already there. We see particular opportunities to grow the hotel’s corporate, wedding, conference and events business, while continuing to improve the guest experience and invest in the property.
“This is a long-term investment for us and we’re looking forward to becoming part of the Salisbury business and hospitality community and taking The Stones into its next chapter.”
The Stones Hotel was one of BGAM Hospitality’s non-core assets that was sold so it could concentrate on other hotels in its portfolio.
Jonny Levy, group CEO at BGAM Hospitality, said:
“The 50-bedroomed hotel, with a dedicated wedding and event function capacity for 400 guests, was sold on behalf of BGAM Hospitality, after substantial refurbishment and repositioning.”
Salisbury is an established tourism destination with a rich history, impressive architecture, busy markets and strong cultural heritage. The city also benefits from a military‑related corporate market, given its proximity to several major British Army bases and garrisons near the Salisbury Plain training area.
Mr Stevens and Mr Wright added:
“This transaction further shows investors’ strong appetite to acquire profitable business that are well invested in popular locations. Should any other owners be considering a sale and require confidential market advice, please get in contact.”