May 2007

"TOP CLASS HOTEL GETS EVEN BETTER "

One of Yorkshire’s favourite landmarks has today been awarded a four star rating by the AA.

Mark Booth from Hazlewood Castle explained: “This is fantastic news for Hazlewood and everyone who works here.  We’ve been operating with a four star approach to everything we do for a long time now so it’s a significant achievement to receive the recognition formally from the AA.

“We now expect to see an influx of four star clientele from around Europe, the states and the rest of the world, especially those looking for something special for their holidays, business trips, conferences and special events.”

The step up from three stars to four coincides with Hazlewood Castle celebrating its 10 year anniversary since it opened its 11th century doors to the public in 1997.

Mark said: “The castle has undergone many improvements and changes over the past year which have all contributed to the additional AA star. We’ve just launched our brand new Restaurant Anise in the Castle’s Old Orangery which opens out onto a patio area with panoramic views of the garden and rolling Yorkshire hills. 

“This summer we’re opening a wine shop and deli in the castle grounds.  The deli and wine vaults - which will also cater for private dining - will feature specialty wines and gourmet goods from local producers so that guests can take home a taste of Yorkshire.”

A new clay pigeon shooting club is soon to open and, due to increased demand, plans are in the pipeline to build an extra 30 bedrooms and a spa on the castle grounds, creating an additional 35 jobs and bringing employee numbers to around 125.

Widely accepted as the country’s hospitality industry standard, the AA awarded Hazlewood Castle four star status for its staff, accommodation, food and service. 

The leap up from three star to four requires a higher standard of excellence, comfort and quality, and spacious rooms with large outdoor public areas.  There should be function rooms equipped for full in-house entertainment, 24 hour food service and specially trained staff who anticipate the needs of guests.

The AA assessor spent a whole day and night critiquing every aspect of the Hazlewood Castle experience during an anonymous overnight stay this week.

Mark concluded: “We’ve been working solidly towards four star status for 18 months, building our conferencing and events side of the business and ensuring we retain the steady stream of high profile individuals and companies who return regularly to Hazlewood.

“We are also one of the most popular wedding venues in the North. But, as our customers know, whether visiting for lunch or a long weekend, we treat every visitor like a four star guest.”

For more information on wedding packages, conferencing and events facilities, restaurant and hotel bookings, please contact Hazlewood Castle on 01937 53 53 53

NOTE TO NEWSDESK

For more information contact Natalie Sykes on (01937) 535353.

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