Tag Archives: hotel

New Beer Celebrates Shropshire at County Hotel

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Our hotel is not only near one of the county’s most popular landmarks, we’ve also been chosen to represent the county by launching a speciality beer celebrating all things Shropshire.

Wayne Jenson and Reuben Crouch

Wayne Jenson and Reuben Crouch

 

 

 

 

 

 

Buckatree Hall Hotel will exclusively supply Shropshire Stout, created by Cleobury Mortimer-based Hobsons Brewery.

Reuben Crouch, commercial director at Hobsons, said: “I always enjoy coming to Buckatree Hall Hotel and seeing the bar full.

“We have worked together for a long time so we had no hesitation in offering our new beer to Buckatree first of all.”

Hobsons chose Buckatree Hall as their first outlet after the success of the Wrekin Havoc ale there last year.

Hotel general manager Wayne Jenson said: “This new beer further highlights how committed Buckatree Hall is to the local area and showcasing the very best of our county.

“A lot of people got behind Wrekin Havoc last year and it was certainly a talking point for our guests so we suspect this will be the same.

“We have a tremendous working relationship with Hobsons and are pleased to be showcasing this ale.”

Hobsons sources all its ingredients locally and prides itself on contributing to the county’s economy by working with Shropshire businesses.
The stout is a dark beer made using locally grown roasted malts and barley, local hops, water and yeast.

“It’s a great beer, think Guinness, only better!,” Wayne added.

“I am certain our customers will take to it.  Guinness is one of the most successful beer brands in the world.
“Hobsons Shropshire Stout is easily on a par with taste and quality.”

Other locations across the county are set to get their deliveries of Shropshire Stout in the coming weeks ready for Christmas.

For more information about the Buckatree Hall Hotel, visit www.buckatreehallhotel.com or call 01952 641821.

Fashion show for our nominated charity

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October 2017

We’re delighted to say we’re hosting a fashion show to raise money for our chosen charity of the year, Homestart Telford & Wrekin.

The show will take place on October 19th from 7pm and there will be fashion brand Captain Tortue showcasing the new collection.

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We hope this will be a really popular event with lots of men and women wanting to come and try or buy – while at the same time raising money for charity.

Homestart Telford & Wrekin is a very worthy cause.

The aim of the charity is very simple but very important: to support those with children under five who may need a little extra help, whether they’re struggling with isolation, disability, domestic abuse or they’ve had twins or triplets or even just a hand to re-adjust to their new family life after having a baby.

They do this by training volunteers who then spend time with that family each week to help them find ways of coping and they also fundraise to take people out for rare days out and activities they probably wouldn’t otherwise be able to enjoy.

In addition, the team runs a number of courses which are all aimed at increasing parents’ confidence and helping them to raise happier and healthier little ones.

The fashion show is the latest in a series of fundraising events we are putting on.

Tickets are £5 per person and include tea, coffee and a selection of cakes.

It’s taking place here at the hotel, at the foot of the Wrekin and The Ercall.

To reserve your tickets call 07952 641 821 – we can’t book tickets here at the hotel.

The team at Buckatree are determined to make this our best year yet for fund-raising so we’d love to see as many of our regulars and new faces as possible.

There are collection tins in place for Homestart in our reception and we’re all ears if you have a fundraising idea to help the charity.

We’ve been shortlisted for a great award because we love Shropshire and our guests!

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May 2017

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We are delighted to have been shortlisted for a popular business award!
The finalists for the annual Shropshire Business Awards have been revealed this week and Buckatree Hall Hotel is up there with the best.
We are overwhelmed to have made the shortlist for the fourth year running and will be doing everything we can to bring home that trophy – just like we did in 2014!

In our category, the Tourism, Leisure and Hospitality Award, we are up against Lakeside Coaches Limited, Hadley Park House Hotel and Wroxeter Hotel.

All companies which I am sure do their bit for Shropshire, but we are determined to make sure we do the most and do our family owners proud. We’ve been shortlisted because of the hard work we do in generating tourism for Shropshire, boosting the local economy here and making sure our guests are happy. So, in part, thanks goes to you as well for all your positive feedback – and the advice we have had about how to make your stay a better one, because we’ve reacted to it all.

Over the next few weeks we’ll be visited by a team of judges who will make the final decision.

It’s the 17th time these awards have run and we’ll find out if we’ve won in front of 600 people at an Oscars-style awards night at The International Centre in Telford on June 23.

The event is organised by Shropshire Chamber of Commerce and we’re delighted to be part of it yet again. We love business in Shropshire (as you can see from our last blog post…) and now we’re hoping that businesses in Shropshire love us enough to name us winner of this award. Keep your fingers crossed for us.

The importance of being part of the business community

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May 2017

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Wayne Jenson with Shropshire Chamber of Commerce members

There are many different aspects to running a hotel and, while a big part of what we do is focused around guests’ experiences – making sure your food is delicious, your room is clean and the service you receive is top rate, we also do a lot behind the scenes to contribute to the business community here in Telford.

We’re one of 32 Shropshire Chamber of Commerce patrons – which gives us access to a whole range of opportunities such as business events across Europe. This helps us push the Buckatree even further and in turn offer you an even better experience here as we’re learning from the best of the best.

More locally, it enables us to work with partners from across the county, help Shropshire’s economy thrive and it also shows to you that we’re a respected part of the business community.

We also host the Chamber’s Telford breakfast networking club and regularly provide a venue for the Telford Business Club.

We do all of that because we care about what’s happening right here in Telford and we want to do our bit to promote our great town across the county and beyond.

There’s no point having such fantastic facilities (including the Buckatree of course!) if we don’t shout about them and ensure everyone knows what’s on offer here.

There is also a lot to be said for networking face-to-face, while so much these days happens online you can’t replace a good old chat with a fellow business owner. And weeks or months down the line while they may have forgotten about a faceless email sent to them, they’re less likely to forget about shaking your hand and sitting down for ten minutes or so to discuss the economy and what can be done to continue to ensure Telford thrives.

We’ve also got our own business club, with exclusive rewards including discounted accommodation and food, free meeting room hire and special promotions and offers.

You can join by visiting www.buckatreehallhotel.com/buckatree-business-club.

If you’re a Shropshire company then we encourage you to do all you can to be a valuable part of the business community – and if you’re a resident then why not consider what you can do to ‘shop local’ and keep the economy growing!

A gift voucher for a getaway makes the perfect present

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April 2017

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Gift vouchers can be the perfect present for anyone hard to buy for. And here at Buckatree Hall, at the bottom of the Wrekin, we have a range of different offers if you’ve got a special occasion coming up and you’re struggling for ideas.

Whether you want to buy a cash gift voucher ranging from £25 upwards or treat your loved one to a Sunday lunch or a Lakeside Restaurant dining experience, we’ve got it all covered and you can even buy online.

If you’re feeling especially generous, there’s even the option to purchase a spring break – a two night break inclusive of dinner, bed and breakfast. Of course we are in the Easter spirit so our guests will enjoy hot cross buns and tea on arrival and enjoy an Easter egg in the room too or a box of chocolates if you stay after the Easter break!

These vouchers are ideal because not only are you buying your friend or family member an experience they won’t forget in a hurry, you’re also giving them access to the beautiful Shropshire hills and plenty of surrounding attractions when they travel to the Buckatree to redeem their voucher.

Of course, there’s the fantastic Wrekin which the Buckatree sits at the foot of and lots of other hills and popular trails for keen walkers to explore but there’s much more than that to enjoy nearby.

If museums are your thing, then why not head out to Ironbridge which is just six miles away? There you’ll find everything from Blists Hill Victorian Town to Enginuity science museum, as well as the famous bridge itself.

Or if there are little ones in your party then there’s Hoo Farm on the outskirts of Telford or the Town Park right in the centre, featuring Wonderland, the ice skating rink, bowling and much more.

One thing’s for sure, you can be certain whether you’re seeking beautiful scenery or a day out all the family can enjoy you’ll find it right on our doorstep.

Simply click here to find out more about our range of vouchers and purchase one today.

Refreshments for runners at Bayley Mile event

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March 2017

Bayley Mile Photo

Wayne Jenson, Phil Morris Jones, Wellington Mayor and Byaley Mile organisers Caroline Mulvihill and Jim Moystn.

If you are a Telford resident, you will probably have heard of the Bayley Mile event.

It started in the 1930s and was revived 21 years ago – it sees children from schools across the town coming together at the start line to run a mile.

What you may not know is that last year we were right there next to them handing out refreshments to the thirsty boys and girls taking part, and this year we’ll be there again too.

At Buckatree Hall we’re really proud to be sponsoring this event and to have our staff there on Wednesday, May 17, from 12pm to 2.30pm to support all of the runners.

We believe it’s our duty as a local business to get involved in the community, and as the start line at Wellington Leisure Centre (Swimming Pool East car park) is only a couple of miles down the road from us, it really is a local event!

Not only it is a great for us to do our bit and give something back to residents, a lot of whom support us throughout the year, it’s also a fantastic day. Last year we loved getting involved and cheering everyone on, and it was amazing to see Paralympian Mickey Bushell MBE handing out the medals.

The track and field star won gold in the 100m at the London 2012 Paralympics so it was a real treat for everyone to meet him.

At the end of the day, there’s also an open race for any of the spectators wishing to get involved. Who knows, maybe you’ll see some of the Buckatree staff limbering up for that one?

If you’re free that afternoon, please do come down and support the children as they take on the mile-long challenge. And if you decide to take part in the open race then do pop and see us for much-needed refreshments afterwards!

Any schools interested in taking part in the council-run event should call Caroline on 01952 567696 or email caroline.mulvihill@telford.gov.uk.

And do keep an eye on the blog as we’ll be updating you throughout the year about the charity and community events we’ll be supporting!

Spend a romantic Valentine’s Day break at Buckatree Hall

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January 2017 

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It’s that time of year again when everything seems to be about hearts, flowers and chocolates.

With the colours red and pink being unavoidable currently, there’s no excuse for forgetting about Valentine’s Day – especially if you’ve popped the question (or said yes!) over Christmas and New Year.

Last weekend, Emma, Kaya and Chantel were lucky enough to meet hundreds of loved up couples at the Telford Wedding Exhibition in Telford Shopping Centre where they started to help with the planning process ahead of the big day.

They joined more than 60 exhibitors who were also showcasing their services from flowers to dresses and suits to your transport – everything was covered!

Whether you made it along to our stand at the exhibition or you didn’t quite make it – don’t worry as you could still be in with the chance of winning a table for two on Valentine’s Day if you can pop along to our very own wedding fair on February 12th from 11am to 3pm.

Enjoy your own one-to-one discussion with our wedding planning experts in the very place you could tie the knot or celebrate your marriage.

Our show offers are also continuing until the end of the month and will be available at our wedding fair including deposit contributions, free chair covers and candy wheel or 15% off the final bill for all non-discounted packages.

This year we’re offering a two-night romantic break from just £74.50 per room per night – it includes accommodation in one of our superior double rooms with your own private balcony.

Rose petals sprinkled on the bed and a box of chocolates waiting when you arrive, and a full English breakfast is served on both mornings.

You can also choose which night to take advantage of the romantic dinner included within the deal which comes complete with a glass of chilled Prosecco – and a single red rose if you stay with us between February 10 and 15.

You could even upgrade to one of our feature rooms subject to availability.

If you’re not free over Valentine’s then you can still take advantage of the deal and book now for a romantic stay any time before November 30 – meaning you’ve both got something to look forward to throughout 2017.

To find out more and book today, simply visit https://goo.gl/0h93SG

A day in the life of a Hotel Manager

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December 2016

Basil Fawlty may be an extremely entertaining and comedic character but as a hotel manager he falls way short in the people skills needed to keep a successful business going.

Fortunately here at Buckatree Hall we have a general manager who continues to ensure our hotel maintains its position, high standards and professionalism among the very best.

We are a busy and hugely successful hotel – 2016 has been a record breaker for us – and we are always striving to ensure we maintain those goals for the good of our guests. This can’t be achieved without a highly committed and motivated workforce and here at Buckatree Hall we believe we have the best.

Part of the fun about being a hotel manager is meeting the countless number of people who come through our door – each one has a different experience of life and each has their own unique story to tell.

After taking on the challenge of running the independently owned hotel four years ago, we asked general manager Wayne Jenson to explain what continues to drive him on a daily basis:

“Ensuring everything is right day-to-day is truly a full-time job but it is also a hugely rewarding one and the thought each day that we have made the stay of our guests as good as we possibly can is very satisfying.

“To do this with the challenges any 24/7 business faces and still be able to maintain our very professional approach and high level of service is what it is all about.

“Whilst a lot of things are routine – two days are rarely the same. There is always something that needs addressing or requirements or requests by a guest that need sorting. Every day is different in some way or other.

“Some of the things we get asked or some things that happen are quite unusual but in the interests of guest confidentiality I don’t think I should relay them here.

“You always have to have an open mind and try to ensure the guests’ needs are dealt with in a professional and courteous manner.

“People visit us from all over the world and engaging them in conversation and hearing about their experiences is wonderful. So many from a wide diversity of backgrounds generate an interesting insight for us into their lives and places they come from. It can be a bit like going on holiday without ever leaving the hotel!

“Obviously I am responsible not only for the smooth running of the hotel and the welfare of the guests on a daily basis but also for the workforce. The hotel has 62 rooms and over 40 members of staff, so there’s enough to keep busy!

“We have an excellent staff base at Buckatree Hall and that helps me to keep things on track through the excellent structure we have in place.

“Things usually run well but there are always those instances that you can’t see coming and then it’s all hands to the pump to make sure every eventuality is catered for.

“Another great thing about working at Buckatree Hall is the wide range of events and services we have here. It is always busy and that’s good for me. Whether it’s weddings, functions or a host of meetings by various organisations, there is always something happening.

“It’s a real pleasure to do the job I do and I am so pleased to continue to be a part of such a huge success that is Buckatree Hall Hotel.”

A lunch date with the stars

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November 2016

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Here at Buckatree Hall Hotel we like to give our guests the very best – including top class entertainment on the lead up to Christmas with tribute act visits from Cilla Black, Frank Sinatra and Vera Lynn.

So we’re hosting Tribute Lunches from November 30 to December 19 and visitors can choose from a festive three-course lunch menu to accompany the top tribute act of the day for just £16.50.

The tribute lunches follow on from the success of last year and because of the sell-out dates of 2015 we decided to increase the number of acts this year from four to six – and half of those are already fully booked!

We won’t tantalise you with them (okay so you missed out on Elvis, Buddy Holly and Doris Day – but we have plenty more on offer)

So what’s what’s left?

  • December 6th – Cilla Black and Friends
  • December 15th – Vera Lynn

The fun will begin when our guests arrive at noon for lunch to be served at 12.30pm. The tribute act goes on stage at 1.30pm and we have some great singers to entertain you so come and join the festive fun at Buckatree Hall.

It’s the perfect date for friendship and community groups and sporting clubs who have their day times free and don’t necessarily want to venture out during the dark winter nights – but don’t wait around as there’s limited availability!

For more information or to book call (01952) 641 821 or email sales@buckatreehallhotel.com

Have you met our new receptionist?

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June 2016

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Liena Ergle has joined our team here at The Buckatree Hall Hotel after completing a course at Telford College of Arts and Technology.

Liena, 27, from Donnington is the second full time member of staff we’ve taken on as part of the continued partnership, as well as around a dozen casual staff.

We thought we’d share Liena’s thoughts with you:

“I have worked in shops, as a cleaner or in factories but I didn’t have any other experience so people wouldn’t give me any other jobs.

“I probably would have never got this job before, I really like it.

“I am learning everything – it’ll all new to me but it is easy to pick up.

“When you learn more about the company it is easier to do it, like knowing about the rooms and check in and check out systems for reservations.”

Liena has two children and speaks Latvian and Russian as a first language and despite speaking English for six years, decided to complete an evening course at Telford College of Arts and Technology to improve her English writing skills.

“You get to meet a lot of people here, it is nice getting to chat to them and find out where they are from,” Liena added.

“I make new friends as well.”

She landed the role after going to a CV writing workshop with Reed NCFE Senior Employment Broker Shelley Instone, based at Telford College of Arts and Technology, and being notified about the job.

The partnership between our hotel and the college sees 260 students, on 13 different courses, gain a realistic insight and experience the tourism industry.
Those studying business admin, event management, professional hospitality, and travel and tourism complete a traineeship involving one week working on reception, in the kitchen, behind the bar, in housekeeping and in the restaurant.

The aim is to work with professionals in order to make an informed decision about their future.

Mrs Instone said she is delighted to see the benefits of this continued partnership.

“This partnership has had a positive influence on many students.

“We are so proud to be able to work with this award winning hotel and offer a great opportunity for so many of our learners.

“For this to lead to employment for so many people, the latest of whom is Liena, just shows how effective it is and is a reflection of the strong working relationship we have built.
“Many employers may have been concerned at offering this role to someone with no recent experience, but Buckatree Hall Hotel has always been willing to consider the individual themselves and the transferable skills a person has to offer.

“The team are always willing to help others realise and achieve their potential. We are thrilled for Liena and wish her all the very best in her new role.”

Family-run Buckatree Hall Hotel won the travel, tourism and leisure category at the Shropshire Business Awards 2014.

It was also the highest ranking hotel in the BestOf Business of the Year 2016 awards across Telford & Wrekin and has been handed accolades from industry partners Laterooms, Booking.com and TripAdvisor®.

Our General Manager, Wayne Jenson, said: “Liena is a great addition to our reception team and has learnt the role quickly.

“She is efficient and I am pleased to have her on board.

“The partnership with TCAT is proving to be a real success.”