A new hotel and resort, owned by a famous chain with properties around the world, is set to open in the heart of the British countryside, offering ‘free desserts’ every day for guests
There’s a catalogue of luxury hotels dotted all over the UK, but there’s one that might just stand out from them all after it opens its doors to Brits. The Swiss brand Mövenpick Hotels & Resorts, known for offering guests an hour of complimentary desserts every day, is set to open its first hotel in the UK.
Dubbed the ‘chocolate hotel’, Mövenpick has establishments all over the world, from Asia, the Middle East, Africa, Europe, and even as far as the Pacific in Australia and New Zealand. In an exciting move, the well-known chain, owned by Accor, will open a new hotel in late 2027 at the Old Thorns Estate & Resort in Liphook, Hampshire, across 400 sprawling acres.
After a full renovation, the luxury hotel and resort will boast 194 bedrooms, a championship-level golf course, four restaurants, a wellness centre with spa, 2,500 square metres of conference and meeting spaces, and a ballroom accommodating more than 500 guests.
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Mövenpick is known for its premium and varied ice cream, which was acquired by Nestlé. Guests staying at the hotel can expect to enjoy an extensive selection of delicious treats, including éclairs, truffles, and brownies, as well as a chocolate fountain, during the brand’s famous ‘chocolate hour’, along with other food offerings.
What’s more, these desserts are famed for being complimentary for guests every day for 60 minutes. What makes the hotel chain stand out is its in-house chefs, who provide various workshops, demonstrations, and experiences for their guests, from truffle rolling to cupcake icing during the famed ‘chocolate hour’.
Graham Dodd, VP development for UK and Ireland, premium, midscale and economy brands at Accor, said: “Bringing Mövenpick to the UK marks an important step in strengthening our premium brand portfolio and reinforcing our growth commitment for this important market.
“Mövenpick is a world-renowned brand that is recognised for its culinary excellence and environmental responsibility, which align perfectly with the expectations of UK guests. The Old Thorns estate provides an exceptional backdrop to introduce the brand in this incredibly important destination for Accor.”
Renovations are expected to take place over the next two years to transform the former Old Thorns Estate & Resort into a new Mövenpick property in the heart of the Hampshire countryside, just an hour from London. The chain aims to expand its leisure and wellness facilities, elevate the dining experience, and restyle the guest bedrooms, all with an approach rooted in its Swiss-inspired hospitality.
Israr Liaqat, group CEO of Select Group, added: “This property stands as a landmark of character and opportunity. Its celebrated history aligns seamlessly with Mövenpick’s commitment to authentic experiences and Swiss-inspired hospitality. Together with our trusted and established partner Accor, we will elevate this iconic property into a world-class resort destination, blending heritage with the sophistication of the Mövenpick brand.”
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