Edgbaston Park Hotel and Conference Centre is celebrating winning two prestigious new awards.
It took the University Hotel Award at the U Dine Awards 2024, and won Hotel of the Year at last week’s Midlands Food, Drink & Hospitality (MFDH) Awards. The hotel was also shortlisted for MFDH’s Venue of the Year.
The U Dine Awards celebrate excellence and innovation within the university hospitality sector, acknowledging institutions that set the highest standards in service, facilities, and guest experiences. The MFDH Awards is a region-wide celebration of the great work done within the food, drink and hospitality industry – the people and venues that help put the Midlands on the map.
To win awards at both events places Edgbaston Park Hotel amongst the industry’s very best. This year’s victories are particularly significant though as they follow the hotel’s shortlisting for the same U Dine award in 2023, as well as its recognition as ‘Hotel of the Year’ at last year’s MFDH Awards.
It’s testament to the hotel’s unwavering commitment to providing outstanding customer service and hospitality to University of Birmingham staff and students, as well as its local community. Edgbaston Park Hotel is proudly people-focused, something which is undoubtedly key to its success.
Billy Harris, Director of Commercial at the hotel, said: ‘It’s a fantastic achievement, particularly for an independent hotel, and wonderful recognition of the work we’ve done to increase sustainability, strengthening our excellent team and building our commercial success.’
Other achievements in the past 12 months include:
Awarded Greengage’s ECOsmart gold award and re-accreditation of Green Meetings Gold award by Green Tourism
Raised over £1,000 for its chosen charity, Birmingham & Black Country Wildlife Trust
Provided 544 lunch box meals in 2023 for children in coffee growing regions through its partnership with Paddy & Scott’s
Awarded Bronze at the West Midlands Tourism Awards 2024 for Large Hotel of the Year
Richard Metcalfe, CEO at Edgbaston Park Hotel, commented, ‘This team puts our guests at the very heart of what they do. I’m incredibly proud to work with such a talented, caring group of people and this is thoroughly deserved recognition of the work they put in every day’.
Edgbaston Park Hotel and Conference Centre continues to lead the industry with its luxurious accommodation, state-of-the-art conference and event facilities, and a focus on guest experience. These awards reinforce the hotel’s position as a top hospitality destination in Birmingham and the wider Midlands region.
Seeking an award-winning hotel? Get in touch at [email protected] or explore our website for further information.
Edgbaston Park Hotel partners with St Basils
Edgbaston Park Hotel is delighted to have chosen St Basils – which supports homeless 16- to 25-year-olds – as its charity for 2024.
Anyone who’s stayed at Edgbaston Park Hotel will know it prides itself on being a part of the Edgbaston community – a hotel that not only puts its customers and team first, but its local area too. Since 2021, the hotel has partnered with a chosen charity each year to help make a difference to its community.
This year, the hotel has partnered with St Basils, a charity dedicated to supporting young people facing homelessness in the West Midlands. The team works tirelessly to keep youngsters off the streets, to find and keep a home, grow their confidence, and develop skills to attract opportunities that will help safeguard their future.
Partnering with St Basils was a natural choice for the Edgbaston Park Hotel team. CEO Richard Metcalfe said ‘St Basils is a charity close to our hearts and the team was unanimous in choosing it for our charity of the year. The role we play in our community is hugely important to us and we are all delighted to be working with St Basils to support the incredible work they do.’
This support will come from several donation drives in the coming months, plus the proceeds from the hotel’s annual family fun day, which will be held in August. Last year’s event proved hugely popular with local families and raised an incredible £1,000 for charity.
Head of Fundraising and Communications at St Basils, Barrie Hodge, added, ‘We are so grateful to the team at Edgbaston Park Hotel for choosing us as their charity partner this year. Their commitment to our cause is truly appreciated.
‘The range of things they are planning to raise funds for what we do is fantastic, and we can’t wait to get started with them. On behalf of all the young people their fundraising will support, thank you’.
Edgbaston Park Hotel is more than a hotel. It’s a community wanting to make a real difference to Birmingham. So, next time you visit, you can be sure of a feel-good stay, knowing that you’re supporting a business that cares more about people than profit.
Details about the hotel’s upcoming fundraising events will be released as soon as they’re confirmed. Make sure to stay in the know by following the hotel on Facebook and Instagram and subscribing to its monthly newsletter.
Top tips for planning the perfect outdoor wedding ceremony
We recently sat down for an exclusive Q&A session with our Assistant Conference & Events Sales Manager, Laura, to uncover the essential tips for planning the picture-perfect outdoor wedding ceremony at Edgbaston Park Hotel.
From selecting the ideal venue to navigating unpredictable weather, Laura shares her expert advice and insider knowledge to ensure your special day is nothing short of magical. Join us as we delve into Laura’s top tips and invaluable insights to help you craft the outdoor wedding of your dreams.
What are the most important factors couples should consider when choosing an outdoor wedding venue?
When choosing the ideal outdoor wedding venue for your ceremony, one of the first considerations is the time of year you plan to tie the knot. Each season offers its own unique charm and potential challenges, so it’s important to align your venue choice with your desired atmosphere and weather preferences.
Consider venues that offer ample space and picturesque features such as serene ponds and a grand sweeping aisle which provide breathtaking backdrops for your wedding photographs amidst lush greenery and florals.
Lastly, embrace the natural charm of the venue’s existing grounds as a canvas for your personal decorations, allowing you to infuse your unique style into every aspect of your wedding day.
2. How can couples effectively plan for and handle unexpected weather conditions on their wedding day?
Always have a backup option! Choose a venue that seamlessly transitions between outdoor and indoor spaces to accommodate any weather surprises, as we know how unpredictable the British weather can be!
Additionally, ensure that the venue’s team is prepared to swiftly transform the ceremony into an indoor setting if needed. Having a proactive approach and reliable support from the venue team will help mitigate any weather-related disruptions and ensure a smooth and memorable wedding day experience.
3. What are some creative ways couples can personalise their outdoor wedding ceremony and outdoor spaces?
Couples can personalise their outdoor wedding in several creative ways. Add your own personal touches through decorations, incorporate charming elements like a moon gate, draped canopy or frame the area with a stunning floral arch.
If you’re a pet lover you could include your beloved pets for a special touch, alternatively you could enjoy live outdoor music while soaking in the scenic surroundings.
4. What are some eco-friendly practices couples can implement to minimise their environmental impact when planning an outdoor wedding?
Embrace biodegradable or natural confetti for a whimsical touch that respects the environment. Instead of traditional paper, offer guests biodegradable or seeded paper for your wedding signage and stationery allowing them to take home a sustainable keepsake.
Indulge your guests with a culinary journey that champions sustainability and choose vegan food and drink options.
When selecting your venue, consider one that consolidates ceremony, reception, and accommodation to minimise the need for transportation which reduces carbon emissions. Prioritise a venue with excellent public transport links to encourage guests to travel sustainably. With these practices, couples can create a beautiful and eco-conscious outdoor wedding celebration.
5. How can couples seamlessly incorporate the outdoor wedding theme throughout their entire day?
Kick off the celebrations with a refreshing outdoor drinks reception and canapes to allow your guests to enjoy the scenery. Elevate the excitement with lawn games like giant Jenga, ensuring there’s never a dull moment. And for the little ones, why not bring in a bouncy castle or even hire some adorable alpacas to create your very own petting zoo?
When it comes to choosing a wedding theme that harmonises perfectly with the outdoor setting, the possibilities are endless. Embrace festival vibes with twinkling lights and live music. For a bohemian feel, incorporate dreamcatchers and floral crowns. Alternatively, a Mediterranean flair can be achieved with lush greenery and al fresco dining. For a more laid-back dining experience, consider street food to add an interactive element to the celebrations.
If you’re seeking an unforgettable outdoor wedding ceremony, Edgbaston Park Hotel stands out as the perfect venue. We can host up to 100 guests for an outdoor wedding ceremony, complemented by the beautiful Lloyd Suite in Hornton Grange as a back up option, couples can rest assured that their special day will proceed seamlessly regardless of the weather. We offer the perfect blend of outdoor and indoor spaces ensuring couples have the flexibility they need to plan their dream wedding.
Nestled in leafy Edgbaston, our picturesque grounds offer an idyllic setting for outdoor canapé and drinks receptions, lawn games, live music, and provide the perfect backdrop for wedding photographs.
With luxury accommodation available on-site, complimentary car parking and bespoke packages, Edgbaston Park Hotel offers everything you need for a magical outdoor wedding ceremony. Our Hornton Grange Wedding Package starts from £120 per person.
Behind the scenes interview with our Head of Food & Beverage
We’re pleased to introduce Ashley, our newly appointed Head of Food & Beverage at Edgbaston Park Hotel.
With five years of invaluable experience within our team, Ashley began his journey with us as a Food and Beverage Assistant and has now stepped in to this exciting new role.
Join us as we sit down with Ashley to delve into his journey, insights, and vision for the future of our culinary offerings.
How did you get into the hospitality industry?
My career journey began in the retail sector where I worked for 12 years, before I embarked on an overseas adventure working as a sports and entertainment host with TUI in Tenerife. Upon my return to the UK, I joined Edgbaston Park Hotel as a Food & Beverage Assistant. I was drawn to this role, as I felt that I had transferrable skills in customer service and guest experience. For me, what truly captivated me about the hospitality industry was its emphasis on fostering connections and teamwork, making it the ideal environment for me to thrive in professionally.
2. What inspired you to pursue this promotion and how does it align with your career goals?
At Edgbaston Park Hotel & Conference Centre, it’s the vibrant people and dynamic culture that motivated me to progress into my new role. I joined the team at Edgbaston Park Hotel from when the hotel first opened in 2018 and since then I have been given a clear progression and development plan and unwavering support from my directors and peers. I am passionate about managing people, and I currently oversee a team of 70 team members. My aim has always been to transition and progress into an operational role within the hospitality industry, and this promotion aligns with that goal perfectly.
3. What skills and experiences do you believe were instrumental in earning this promotion?
Being committed to engaging customers and ensuring guest satisfaction has truly been crucial for me. Alongside that, having a deep understanding of the food and beverage industry and staying on top of its ever-evolving trends has been key. My experience in planning and flawlessly executing events, as well as my leadership skills, focusing on training and development have contributed significantly. I’ve also had recognition as Leader of the Year at the EPH Team Awards Night and Manager of the Month on multiple occasions.
4. What do you like about working at Edgbaston Park Hotel and Conference Centre?
I truly value the camaraderie and vibrant culture within the team at Edgbaston Park Hotel. It’s inspiring to be in an environment where career progression is actively encouraged. Moreover, I find that the vision and values of the hotel closely resonate with my own professional ethos.
5. Can you share any memorable experiences or lessons learned from your journey within the industry leading up to this promotion?
One of the most memorable experiences was navigating our way through the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic, particularly in terms of catching up on the backlog of weddings that were cancelled due to restrictions. It was incredibly fulfilling to play a part in making these guests’ experiences extra special, especially for those who had to postpone their weddings. Witnessing the joy of reuniting with family and friends after such a challenging time was truly heartwarming. In the span of one year, we successfully hosted over 100 weddingsand created lots of memorable experiences for our guests which was extremely rewarding.
Looking for an exciting new career within the hospitality industry? Visit our careers page today.
Behind the scenes interview with our Head of Food & Beverage
Edgbaston Park Hotel and Conference Centre has achieved a gold ECOsmart award for its commitment to the environment.
It’s the second successful milestone reached in the hotel’s quest to be one of Birmingham’s greenest, following a gold Green Tourism award in 2023.
The new ECOsmart award from Greengage is the leading accreditation used by organisations around the globe aiming to protect and save our planet from climate change.
Julie Crump, Director of Operations, was full of praise for the team: “I’m really proud! Not only is it a recognition of all the hard work by the team to drive forward sustainable initiatives, but it recognises the values of our business to be a positive influence on our people and community. There’s a lot more we want to achieve, and this gives us the boost to continue, with the recognition that we are moving the business in the right direction.”
ECOsmart award involves a comprehensive survey which covers six key areas – energy and waste conservation; building construction; waste management; recycling and plastic; sustainable food and beverage management; rooms; consumables and facilities management, and corporate and social responsibility. The hotel submitted evidence via the ECOsmart portal, which was then reviewed by a team of experts from Greenage.
This included:
Removing sauce sachets to reduce single-use plastic and replacing with planet-friendly condiments by Tracklements, for use in the bar and restaurant.
Removing single-serve jars from breakfast served in the restaurant to reduce glass waste.
Seamless waste management system which includes regular reviewing of buffet wastage; adding a food waste bin in staff canteen; new bins across the hotel which allows guests to separate their food, general and mixed recycling.
Stocking sustainable drinks, vegan wines, and alcohol-free beers.
Improving energy efficiency across the building which includes LED lighting, BMS system, motion sensor lighting, and regular review of equipment.
Use of eco-friendly chemicals and refillable toiletries in bedrooms.
Paddy & Scott’s coffee stocked across the hotel and bedrooms. Every coffee bag sold provides one meal for a child in coffee growing regions. The hotel contributed to 544 lunch box meals.
All staff are given two days per year to volunteer in the community for a charity of their choice.
No waste to landfill.
Director of Sales, Krishna Pastakia added: “Being part of the hotel’s sustainability journey has been truly rewarding. This achievement not only recognises our progress but also gives us motivation to continue leading the way in sustainable business practices.”
Last Friday marked a spectacular evening as the team at Edgbaston Park Hotel came together to celebrate hard work, dedication and passion that made 2023 an incredible year. The evening was a testament to the exceptional individuals and collective efforts of the entire team!
Richard Metcalfe, CEO at Edgbaston Park Hotel, commented: “A heartfelt thank you to our outstanding team for their hard work and commitment throughout the year. Without each team members dedication, we wouldn’t have achieved the success we did in 2023.”
The spotlight of the evening was on our remarkable award-winners:
Team Member of the Year: Nash (C&B Team)
Team of the Year: Maintenance Team
Leader of the Year: Tracey (Rooms Division Manager)
Guest Services Champions: Rhona (Reception Team) & Breakfast Team
To everyone’s surprise, members of the management team made a special appearance as the iconic “Spice Girls” and CEO, Richard, also took the stage dressed in an inflatable snowman costume and delivered a memorable performance of “Ice Ice Baby”. A big shoutout to the Housekeeping Team who brought their dance moves during the performance!
In addition to the awards ceremony, the Volunteering Committee at Edgbaston Park Hotel demonstrated its commitment to its local community. The Volunteering Committee presented to the team, showcasing the collective efforts to make a positive impact beyond the workplace. Furthermore, they are proud to announce that their team’s generosity knows no bounds. The raffle on the evening raised an impressive £383.00 for the Hotel’s chosen charity, Birmingham and Black Country Wildlife Trust.
As they reflect on this Team Awards Night, they are filled with gratitude for their incredible team and excited about the possibilities that lie ahead. Here’s to another year of success, collaboration, and making a difference – together!
Looking to join an award-winning Hotel? Visit our careers page today.
Edgbaston Park Hotel Shines Bright in 2023
A Year of Sustainability, Community, and Culinary Excellence
In the heart of leafy Edgbaston, Edgbaston Park Hotel has been bustling with activity throughout the year, making significant strides in sustainability, community engagement, and culinary innovation. Follow the Hotel’s journey as they showcase the standout moments of a remarkable 2023.
Green Success
Thanks to the unwavering efforts of the sustainability committee, Edgbaston Park Hotel proudly secured a gold accreditation for Green Meetings from Green Tourism. This achievement is a testament to the Hotel’s commitment to environmental responsibility. The Hotel said farewell to single-use plastics and encouraged guests to opt for eco-friendly transport options.
Edgbaston Park Hotel has become a cornerstone of the Edgbaston community, retaining key commercial partnerships with Edgbaston Stadium, Edgbaston Priory Club, and Edgbaston Golf Club. Together, they have worked collaboratively to enhance the local experience and put Edgbaston on the map as a destination.
Making a Difference: One Event at a Time
This year, the Hotel has been on a mission to give back to the local community, organising a series of impactful events. From a lively family fun day to a heartwarming MacMillan coffee morning, a spooktacular Halloween bake sale, and even contributing to the cleanliness of Edgbaston by litter picking. Through these events they have raised funds for some great causes including their chosen charity, Birmingham and Black Country Wildlife Trust, MacMillian Cancer Support, WWF and University Hospital Birmingham Burns Unit.
Unveiling New Menus
In June, taste buds were delighted with the launch of the new 1900 Bar menu, which featured an array of delectable light bites, sandwiches, and mouth-watering main courses. September saw the refresh of the 1900 Restaurant menu that combined classic flavours with a modern twist. At Edgbaston Park Hotel, they believe in offering a culinary experience that exceeds expectations.
Award-Winning Excellence
Edgbaston Park Hotel was overjoyed to announce their recent triumphs on the awards stage. The Hotel was awarded the prestigious Hotel of the Year Award at the Midlands Food, Drink & Hospitality Awards. Adding to the celebration, Director of Sales at Edgbaston Park Hotel, Krishna Pastakia, was honoured with the miaList Individual Award, recognising her remarkable contributions to the hospitality industry. But the excitement doesn’t end there! The Hotel also proudly secured the Highly Commended Green Initiative of the Year at the FamtasticRocks Awards, highlighting their commitment to sustainability.
A Great Place to Work
Edgbaston Park Hotel’s success this year extends beyond its physical accomplishments to its thriving people and culture. The Hotel has achieved a remarkable employee engagement score of 82.5%, showcasing how the Hotel has prioritised team well-being and created a positive working environment for all.
As 2023 comes to an end, Edgbaston Park Hotel proudly reflected on a year of sustainability, community, collaboration, and culinary excellence—achievements fuelled by the remarkable efforts of its dedicated team. Explore exciting opportunities in the Hospitality industry by checking out our careers page today.
Edgbaston Park Hotel: Leading the way in green innovation and sustainability
Edgbaston Park Hotel has been awarded the “Highly Commended Green Initiative of the Year” award at the FamtasticRocks Awards 2024 hosted at the Mercure Manchester Piccadilly Hotel.
Reflecting on their journey, in January 2023, Edgbaston Park Hotel proudly received the prestigious gold standard award for Green Meetings, from Green Tourism. This inspiring accomplishment means that the Hotel is now one of only 17 conference venues in the UK demonstrating the highest sustainability standards within the industry.
But their green revolution doesn’t end here! The dedication of the Hotel’s sustainability committee has led to the implementation of new sustainable initiatives and the FamtasticRocks “Highly Commended Green Initiative of the Year” award is a testament to this.
Corporate Sales Manager, Money Chopra from Edgbaston Park Hotel enthusiastically attended the awards evening and expressed her excitement upon receiving the award. Money commented, “This award is a significant achievement for the Hotel and acknowledges the dedication and hard work invested in our green initiatives from our entire team.”
The Hotel’s has set its sights on an ambitious goal – to achieve net zero carbon by 2035, aligning with the University of Birmingham’s commitment to attain net zero carbon emissions by 2045.
Well done to our team building and events partner Eventurous for winning Green Initiative of the Year and Team Building Company of the Year. We are proud to work in conjunction to deliver inspirational team building that doesn’t cost the earth.
For the third year in a row, Edgbaston Park Hotel has been shortlisted as a regional finalist at The Wedding Industry Awards in the Wedding Venue (Hotel) category.
The Wedding Industry Awards acknowledge outstanding achievements within the wedding industry and are recognised as the only awards in the UK wedding industry that combines regional and national client voting and expert judges.
This is an incredible achievement that showcases the Hotel’s unwavering commitment to providing exceptional guest experiences for couples on their wedding day. Let’s delve into this remarkable achievement and what makes Edgbaston Park Hotel a top contender in the wedding industry:
Two beautiful wedding venues in the West Midlands: Hornton Grange a charming historic exclusive use house and theFry Suite, our largest contemporary venue, accommodating up to 200 guests.
188 bedrooms on site, all complete with plush interiors and the essentials you need for a great night’s sleep.
Luxury, bespoke wedding packages and menus to plan a wedding day that’s truly your own.
Friendly team of wedding experts on hand to help at every stage of the planning journey.
The Hotel is not only celebrating becoming a regional finalist but is also the proud host of the West Midlands Regional Awards event, set to take place in the bright, contemporary Fry Suite in November.
Tasmin Sales, Wedding Sales Executive at Edgbaston Park Hotel commented: “We’re absolutely thrilled to be shortlisted for this award. It’s a fantastic testament to the dedication and hard work of the entire team from coordination through to the delivery on the day. We can’t wait to continue to create unforgettable experiences for our couples!”
To find out more about weddings at Edgbaston Park Hotel, join our exclusive wedding evening on Monday 6th November 2023 or Spring wedding showcase on Sunday 3rd March 2024. Email the team [email protected] to find out more.
Krishna Pastakia takes home miaList Individual Award 2023
It was celebrations all round at the Meetings Industry Association Awards, as Edgbaston Park Hotel’s Director of Sales, Krishna Pastakia, was awarded the miaList Individual Award.
Hosted at the Park Plaza Victoria London, the team at Edgbaston Park Hotel celebrated Krishna’s success, enjoyed delicious food and drink and danced the night away!
This outstanding award win showcases Krishna’s astounding contribution to the hospitality industry. In the last 12 months, Krishna has:
Driven new and significant enquiries to the hotel during the year; contributing to the success of the hotel’s best financial year yet.
Established new commercial partnerships with Edgbaston Stadium, Edgbaston Priory Club and Edgbaston Golf Club.
Led the Green Tourism project, where the hotel achieved a gold accreditation for Green Meetings.
After achieving this incredible award, Director of Sales, Krishna Pastakia commented: “It is an honour to be one of the winners for the individual category’ at the Meetings Industry Association. It is a hat-trick year for us!”
Looking for an award-winning hotel? Get in touch via [email protected] or visit our website for more information.
