Blackpool hotel relaunches after £1m refurb

Blackpool’s iconic north shore hotel, the Best Western Carlton, relaunched in spectacular circus style following a million-pound refurbishment that has transformed this 57-bedroom hotel into a contemporary, stylish holiday retreat.

The Best Western Carlton's entire ground floor and public areas have been transformed, with a new bar area as its centrepiece.

Luxurious bedrooms feature unique bed heads depicting famous Blackpool landmarks.

Locally renowned photographer Glynn Ward has captured a series of images so guests can now sleep under the shadow of the world famous BlackpoolTower, share their slumbers with seaside donkeys or even nestle down next to the Pleasure Beach.

Clowns, fire-jugglers, stilt-walkers and hula hoop girls were joined by a traditional ring-master all members of the hotel team, welcoming over 100 specially invited guests celebrating the hotel’s transformation by owners, London-based hotel operators and developers Starboard Hotels.

Managers, food and beverage teams and housekeeping staff from The Carlton have all been trained in circus skills in order to entertain guests from across the UK, including members of the hospitality sector and hotel suppliers, at the launch party this week.

The circus theme is part of Starboard Hotel’s long-term commitment to skills training and the development of careers within the hospitality sector.

Starboard operations director Kerian Barnes, based at the company’s northern hub in Chorley, said: “Our launch event was a fantastic evening not only for our guests which included tourism chiefs, local suppliers and industry experts, but for our team too. It gave us the perfect opportunity to showcase our new look and what being part of the hospitality industry means.

"We are always looking to encourage the next generation to consider a career in the hospitality sector. It is not just about washing up and waiting on, even when you first start in the business. Skills you acquire working in hospitality can prove invaluable throughout your working and personal life.” A the launch event, Starboard Hotel’s managing director Paul Callingham, presented two local community groups supported by The Carlton with with gifts. Blackpool Carers Centre were also presented with prints of Glynn’s photography whilst the Wyre Gang Show were given a donation as part of the hotel's on going support for their annual theatre review.