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Shepherd Neame invests in tourism

January 18, 2006: A massive refurbishment of Kent pub accommodation by Shepherd Neame has put the county in a good position to take advantage of an expected influx of tourists.

The brewer has invested £3m in the last three years on a rolling programme of refurbishment work and additional bedrooms to maintain the high standards laid down by the company. Its new 2006 accommodation guide features 13 hotels and pubs, all of which have three- or four-diamond VisitBritain quality rating and offer modern, stylish accommodation at value-for-money prices.

Kent is now the ideal location for a weekend break, with high-speed rail links from London giving visitors a quick, convenient way to travel. Shepherd Neame also anticipates increased demand for accommodation before, during and after the Olympics in 2012.

Fittingly, the company chose the bicentennial year of Nelson's Victory at Trafalgar to give the Royal at Deal a £450,000 transformation. The early 18th century building, where Nelson dined with Lady Hamilton in 1803 while guarding the coast from invasion, now offers the highest standards of 21st century hospitality, providing the ideal romantic coastal destination for those wanting to get away for a weekend. Three of the hotel's 18 guest rooms have large balconies overlooking the shingle beach and have been decorated to a high specification with state-of-the-art facilities and some delightful themed touches. The Wellington Room, for instance, enables visitors to relax in a freestanding, raised, period bath, while gazing out into the English Channel.

The Royal, as well as three other Shepherd Neame pubs - The Conningbrook Hotel, Ashford, The White Horse at Boughton and The Marine, Tankerton - has a full wedding licence and is fully equipped to host receptions, conferences and meetings of all sizes, with wireless broadband internet connectivity to help all guests keep in touch.

Shepherd Neame retail director Nigel Bunting said: "With the Olympics in our sight, our refurbishment programme ensures that visitors enjoy true Kentish hospitality with high quality, comfortable accommodation. Customers can take in the character of an old Kentish inn while enjoying the convenience and luxuries of the modern day."

For a free accommodation guide call 01795 542173 or visit www.shepherdneame.co.uk