FOUR STAR HOTEL IS A FIRST FOR HARPENDEN
August 2008
Harpenden House, part of Folio Hotels, has become the first hotel in Harpenden to achieve four star status from the AA.
The new grading follows a £2.5 million investment, which has encompassed the hotel's 76 bedrooms, public areas, restaurant and meeting rooms
Training for staff has enabled hotel general manager Mark Barber to implement new service standards at the hotel which is set in the charming market town of Harpenden, conveniently situated for the M1, Luton and St Albans. London is a 25 minute train journey.
The hotel has appointed a new chef, Alan Tarsey, who joined recently from Brocket Hall and Beales Hotels. He is implementing new menus for the hotel's Georgian Restaurant, with the emphasis on good British food using fresh local ingredients. Starters include 'pan seared chicken livers with sour dough bread and raspberry vinaigrette', followed by 'medallions of beef with fondant potatoes, celeriac puree and madeira jus' and home made desserts to finish, including traditional cheesecake, or chocolate fondant.
"I am absolutely delighted that the hotel has achieved four stars. I am very proud of my team who have worked so hard to improve the hotel. Thanks to the huge investment, we offer some of the highest standards of accommodation and service in the area. We also have an important role to play in the local community and I believe that we offer something for everyone." said Mark Barber general manager.
Harpenden House has seven meeting rooms with a maximum capacity of 120 delegates. There is free WiFi internet access for guests using or visiting the hotel. The hotel also operates the Georgian Restaurant and Welcombe Bar and Lounge.
Harpenden House is part of Folio Hotels which operates 36 hotels in England and Scotland.
Further information
Harpenden House, 18 Southdown Road, Harpenden, Hertfordshire, AL5 1PE. Tel 0844 600 8713, fax 01582 760 511, email sales.harpendenhouse@foliohotels.com or website www.foliohotels.com/harpendenhouse
