THE Holiday Inn in Winchester has been rebranded as an upmarket hotel chain.

The site of the budget hotel at the science centre is now home to "premium brand" voco Hotels, which has described their accommodation as "upscale" and operates worldwide.

The company said: "Last year, voco Hotels was voted the number one premium brand last year and is IHG's fastest-growing premium brand, offering a hotel experience that is consistently thoughtful and distinct.

"Each property is characterised by its individual charm, providing guests with something different whilst also ensuring the reliability of a global brand."

READ MORE: New Forest hotels the first to achieve Michelin key status

The interior of the rebranded hotel near Winchester (Image: Voco) The contemporary hotel, which was built in 2010, is located on the edge of the  South Downs National Park and within five minutes of the city centre. It benefited from a £2.5 million refurbishment in 2019 followed by the additional refurbishment when it was re-branded to voco.

The hotel has 131 bedrooms consisting of double, twin, accessible, premium and grand rooms, all including en-suite. Since the refurbishment, voco say that all rooms have benefitted from an improvement in quality and service.

The brand-new premium and grand rooms now offer complimentary mini bars, Nespresso machines and new bedding with filling made with 100% recyclable materials.

SEE ALSO: Aviator Hampshire named second-best UK hotel for 2024

The hotel offers nine adaptable meeting and event spaces and is also a popular choice for weddings and private events, catering for up to 200 guests and offering the perfect setting for both segments of business. 

The restaurant, ‘Kitchen 21’, is renowned for its unique 21-inch pizza. The Ana Spa was added in 2019 offering treatment rooms, a Hydro-Pool, Himalayan Salt Sauna, Sensory Shower, Crystal Steam Room and a Bubble Foot Spa.

Jon Beare, general manager at voco Winchester Hotel and Spa, said: “We are delighted to rebrand to voco following a fantastic refurbishment programme which has benefitted the hotel throughout. Anyone staying with us can experience the perfect blend of Winchester’s rich heritage and modern amenities and we look forward to welcoming guests to this beautiful and improved contemporary hotel.”