Skipton’s largest hotel is under new management as retiring owners, Malcolm and Karen Weaving have introduced First & Foremost Hospitality to run The Rendezvous, with the aim of changing the dynamic of the hotel.
The internationally acclaimed management firm and its directors have more than 30 years of experience of running hotels around the world, including the UK, South Africa, Dubai and the Maldives. Bringing fresh ideas and world-class flourish, they have big plans for the 96 bedroom hotel.
As well as a refurbishment of the public areas and bedrooms, their plans to improve the restaurant is designed to appeal to the local dining clientele with new culinary experiences and themed dining on the unique purpose-built narrowboat The Graceful Swan.
Over the years the hotel has scooped many awards in the coach and group travel sector, but the new team is focussed on attracting individual family bookings more in tune with the makeover and plan to upgrade to a 4-star destination. It is already seeing an uplift in bookings from leisure travellers.
Managing Director, Michael Scully said: “Hotel Rendezvous is a fantastic venue set in one of the most beautiful places in the country. It has so much potential and we’re delighted with how well it’s going so far with over 95% occupancy in August with September and October filling up fast.
“We are already hearing of the benefit to the whole of Skipton. As well as buying local produce and recruiting from Craven, our emphasis on attracting higher spending leisure travellers will in turn support town centre businesses as those guests dine, drink and shop in Skipton during their stay”.
Investing in people is key to the new team, so Hotel Rendezvous has launched a new management training programme which encourages staff members to progress and gain experience of management, marketing and sales. First & Foremost are also working with Craven College and its apprenticeship team as part of its commitment to nurturing hospitality skills.
The restaurant is being upgraded to appeal to locals as well as visitors with exciting menus and plans for the hotel’s boat, The Graceful Swan to be a unique and intimate venue for celebration bookings.
Mr Scully added: “The boat really is our jewel in the crown. We’re looking at various ways to offer something a bit different, such as shrimp-stack style events, sundown cocktails and afternoon teas on the water.
“With the boat and our choice of superb function rooms, we are keen to offer Hotel Rendezvous as Skipton’s new home of stylish celebrations. Anyone having a birthday, wedding, anniversary, or just a group of friends wanting to come together – we have the right facilities to welcome them to the Hotel Rendezvous.”