Yorkshire may become the hot new luxury destination, according to the Yorkshire Post. A series of luxury hotel developers are increasing the portfolio of exclusive country retreats and city locations throughout the region.
While concerns have been growing that mid-market hotels are being hit particularly hard, luxury vacations appear to be recession-proof, the article continues, noting that more guests are looking to treat themselves to a five star experience.
Welcome to Yorkshire’s chief executive, Gary Verity, told the paper that there is a growing trend towards luxury stays which he claimed will help bolster the region’s multi-billion dollar tourism industry. Tourism in Yorkshire is worth $11 billion annually, and the industry employs almost 250,000 workers.
Among the latest additions is Raithwaite Hall, which underwent a $47 million renovation before opening in October last year. Managers revealed bookings had exceeded expectations, with occupancy rates hovering at around 70 percent during January and February (which, the article notes, are notoriously quiet times of the year for the hotel trade).
Other major developments in the luxury market include the Cedar Court Grand in York, which has become the first hotel in Yorkshire to earn an AA five-star ranking. Managers at the hotel learned in November that they have secured the rating only 18 months after the hotel opened its doors. It is now one of only 24 outside of London to be given the ranking.