Warwickshire hotel is presented with inclusivity award

A Warwickshire hotel has received a special industry award for its commitment to offer an inclusive experience to all guests – with a particular focus on people living with dementia.

Billesley Manor Hotel & Spa, in Stratfordupon-Avon, has been awarded the ‘Make a Difference’ award at the HMA Hotel Marketing Awards held at The Savoy, in London – being recognised for “setting new standards in accessibility and inclusivity across hospitality”.

The first award of its kind, it saw Billesley Manor commended for enhancing the travel experience for guests with diverse needs.

In late 2024, the hotel teamed up with specialist Midlands home care provider New Age Care to deliver dementia-friendly training to its staff, ensuring guests with dementia and their caregivers receive compassionate and knowledgeable support throughout their stay.

This included wayfinding signage being implemented throughout the hotel, the repositioning of large mirrors in rooms, reduced brightness of lighting and designated quiet areas in the restaurant.

The hotel’s inclusive initiatives also include specialist massage treatments tailored specifically for guests living with cancer, providing tailored care that addresses both physical and emotional needs.

Additionally, braille wedding guides are readily available to help visually impaired couples and their guests navigate the venue independently and plan their celebration with confidence.

Laura Cherrington, Billesley Manor’s Director of Sales and Marketing, said: “We’re incredibly proud to have been recognised by the HMA – it’s a fantastic moment for the whole team.

“Inclusivity is something we deeply care about at Billesley Manor and we’re always looking for meaningful ways to make the hotel more accessible and welcoming for everyone.

“For me, it’s about making sure every guest feels comfortable, respected and able to enjoy their experience with us to the fullest. We hope our efforts make a real difference and inspire positive change.”

The award celebrations come as Billesley Manor prepares for an exclusive culinary experience with renowned award-winning chef Simon Hulstone.

An evening with Simon Hulstone is set to be held on Thursday, September 25 where guests will enjoy an eight-course tasting menu crafted from the finest seasonal British ingredients in celebration of Great British Food Fortnight

Simon, of Michelin-starred The Elephant, in Torquay, is the only British chef to win gold at the World Chef Championship in France.

Priced at £120 per person, the event promises to be an unforgettable evening of exceptional food and hospitality.

Billesley Manor is also gearing up for the festive period, including two and three night packages for those wishing to arrive on Christmas Eve.

The two-night stay is based on two people sharing a king room and is priced at £497.50 per person. It includes cream tea on arrival and a four-course Christmas Eve dinner, Christmas Day breakfast, a four-course Christmas lunch and an evening Christmas Day buffet, and a Boxing Day breakfast.

The three-night stay, also based on two people sharing a king room, is priced at £617.50 per person. In addition to the twonight package, the three-night stay also includes Boxing Day dinner and breakfast on December 27.

Laura added: “We have lots taking place both on the run-up to and across the festive period, and we can’t wait to welcome guests to the hotel to enjoy everything we have to offer.”

For more information on Billesley Manor, visit: www.billesleymanor.com