Victoriana rules again at the Durley Dean Hotel.

UK (SANEPR.com) October 14, 2008 -- Victoriana rules again at a historic Dorset hotel, wowing VIPs and visitors at its opening night.
The Durley Dean Hotel in Bournemouth has been re-launched following completion of the first phase of a £4.2m refurbishment.
The project has completely refurbished two-thirds of the hotel’s 121 bedrooms and revitalised the rest, allowing guests to choose from 20 executive rooms and suite boasting a four poster bed.
The new décor follows a contemporary town house theme with traditional touches, to complement the building’s elegant Victorian heritage.
It contains a new brasserie style restaurant No 28, offering a traditional British menu with Mediterranean influences.
Public areas and the bar have also been totally redesigned.
“Our aspiration is to make this the best three star hotel in Bournemouth, but in reality the facilities we’ve put in are of a four star standard,” said Matthew Welbourn, Folio’s MD, at the launch.
“We are very proud to be operating in Bournemouth.”
The official opening saw more than 100 guests from the town’s tourism and business sectors and prominent council members enjoy a bubbly reception and tours of the hotel.
Mayor of Bournemouth, Cllr Stephen Chappell, said: “As one very interested in conservation, I applaud the work returning this hotel to its Victorian glory.
“The town welcomes tremendous investment in hotels like this.”
The Durley Dean was Bournemouth's first hydro hotel when it opened nearly 100 years ago.
Its unique facilities helped create the town’s spa image, tempting thousands to flock to the resort.
But despite its roots, the hotel is very much 21st Century.
Five fully air conditioned meeting rooms can cater for up to 200 and offer state-of-the-art facilities, free WiFi and a private bar for meetings, weddings and local functions.
Other facilities include a leisure club and pool.
The next phase of the refurbishment is due to start next year.