Focus Hotels announces the completion of extensive refurbishment to the landmark Royal Hotel in Hull following its acquisition of the property in 2009. The £1.5 million renovation will ensure this iconic historical building remains a major focal point in the city and the investment will play a major part in the continued regeneration and improvements to Hull city centre.

Located in the heart of the city, The Royal Hotel was built in 1851 and is one of Hull’s most famous and historically significant Victorian structures. The hotel has been visited by dignitaries including Queen Victoria and it is where Philip Larkin wrote ‘Friday Night at the Royal Station Hull’. Michael Palin has also visited the hotel whilst filming the BBC2 documentary, “Great Railway Journeys: Confessions of a Trainspotter” and most recently Michael Portillo was a guest during the filming of BBC2’s “Great British Railways”.

The hotel has been carefully restored to combine the splendour of the Victorian era with the comforts of modern living and reflects Focus Hotels standards, offering stylish accommodation whilst retaining the individuality and character of the building. The grand foyer, lounge and bar have undergone an impressive facelift and present a show stopping entrance to the historic railway hotel, providing the ideal meeting space for business or leisure guests. The décor features rich brocades and oriental carpets in a palette of vibrant jewel shades, offset with points of gold at ceiling level and on the monumental pillars for a contemporary take on nineteenth century grandeur. In addition the spacious en-suite bedrooms have been refurbished and offer modern, bright décor with highly efficient power showers and plasma screen televisions equipped with Freeview. Free Wi-Fi is now also available throughout the hotel which complements the nine meeting rooms which offer flexible space and excellent facilities, catering for events for up to 400 people.

Situated adjacent to Hull Station, the new St Stephen’s shopping complex and Hull’s historic town centre, The Royal Hotel is the ideal base to visit all that the city has to offer. The Hull Marina and The Deep, the world’s only submarium are both within walking distance whilst the vibrant and historical city of York and the beautiful spa town of Harrogate are a short drive away.

The refurbishment is the latest in a string of projects by Focus Hotels across the UK which has seen the acquisition and refurbishment of twelve hotels since launching in 2007. The group continues its expansion with an investment programme of over £10m in place for 2010.