nourish team One of Norfolk’s oldest establishments has been shortlisted for a major hospitality prize.
The Grove in Cromer is in the running for Small Hotel of the Year in the East Anglian Hospitality Awards, which highlight the very best in the industry throughout the region.
It is the latest in a series of accolades for the family-run hotel, set in a Cromer Georgian country house and established by Robert Graveling in 1936, including two AA Rosettes and Gold Awards for ten consecutive years, and multiple industry recognition. Since Robert’s grandchildren took over in 2012, the business has grown dramatically, with two restaurants, a new accommodation wing, a partnership with The Massage Hut, offering holistic massages, and a glamping offshoot.
Judges visited for an unannounced stay before Christmas and the shortlist has been revealed to the public today with the gala evening on 16 March where the winners will be revealed.
Richard Graveling, one of the partners at the Grove, was pleased with the shortlisting.
“It is obviously a great honour to be in the running for this award. We were absolutely delighted when we got the news – although we’ve had to keep it quiet until now! It’s a massive compliment to our superb team here, who work incredibly hard every day and go out of their way to make our guests feel important and special.
“I think it also shows that our seaside resorts have a huge amount to offer all year round, not purely in the summer months, and I know everyone in the town is doing everything they can to make Cromer an all-year-round destination.
“We’ve now got a great night to look forward to in March, which we’ll really enjoy, regardless of where we ultimately finish.”
The Small Hotel of the Year winner is for small serviced accommodation business that shines in all areas, demonstrating the personal and unique experiences that can be offered in an industry in which major chains with large budgets operate.
“This award is recognition and appreciation for all the tireless hours and effort that small hotels and all their staff put in to stand out in such a competitive industry,” said judge Nathan Doe, managing director of award sponsor John Doe Carpets and Furniture.
“To be recognised as Small Hotel of the Year across the region is such a fantastic opportunity and a brilliant achievement for anyone that wins – an achievement that will speak for itself in terms of marketing and attracting future guests.
“From the initial welcome from the front-house team and food cooked by the chefs, to the comfort of your room and the on-site experiences that are available – what will stand out to me is the entire offering and experience as a whole.”
Last year’s winner was the Hog Hotel in Lowestoft, with Norwich’s Assembly House and the Norfolk Mead in Coltishall Highly Commended and Finalists respectively.
