The Story Behind The Burlington Hotel

Our parents have always been ambitious. Together, they had one dream they set their sights on that they just wouldn’t let go of - running their very own hotel. 

Our parents could have chosen anywhere but when they came across the Burlington Hotel, they knew it was right for them. It was May 1994, Mum and Dad had arranged to meet with the Chamber of Commerce and Council representatives to view the hotel which was seeking a new owner.

At the time, the Eurotunnel was nearing its completion, providing a direct and easy transportation link to the rest of Europe. This connection to Europe, combined with the wonderful Victorian architecture and beautiful seaside location, meant it wasn’t long before the papers were signed and our family were the new proud owners of Folkestone's Burlington Hotel.

A lot can change in 25 years but something that has never changed has been our commitment to offering a professional, quality service with the personal touches that only an independent family run hotel can provide. Now that our parents have taken a back seat to running the hotel, we ensure everyone visiting, from the moment they step through our doors to the moment they leave, receives the 4-star experience they expect and deserve, something which can only be accomplished thanks to the fantastic team we have working with us.

It hasn’t always been easy. Having originally opened it’s doors in 1893, the Burlington operated as a 4-star hotel during the 1960's and 70's. Over time however, the hotel’s popularity declined which led to it losing a star in 1981. 

When our family took over as custodians of the hotel, our goal was to restore the hotel back to the height of its popularity, as well as to eventually regain the 4 stars it once held.

We believe a hotel should be more than just somewhere to rest your head after a long day. Part of this belief is held in the hotel’s accompanying restaurant and bar, the Bay Tree Bar & Grill. Back then it was renowned for its Sunday lunches and black-tie dinners boasting waiting lists of several months due to its popularity. It also employed famous chefs at the start of their careers such as Phil Vickery who worked under the renowned Head Chef Freddie Jones.  

While the bar and grill provided locally sourced food and classic cocktails to hotel guests, one of the key aspects that set it apart from the competition is that is was open to the general public as well. This is a service we pledged to champion when we reopened following the latest refurbished in 2018 with an all-new look and all new menu for everyone to enjoy.

Becoming the only fully serviced, assessed 4-star hotel in Folkestone and relaunching the Bay Tree Bar & Grill are just a few of our milestones over the years but we’re proud of so much more too. We joined the Best Western family as one of their top-rate Best Western Plus Hotels. We played host to Matt Lucas, Vic Reeves and Bob Mortimer as well as other actors when the hotel became the set of the popular television comedy Catterick. We’ve also won many awards, including the International Quality Award from Best Western and Kent Chamber Business Award.

Whether you’re coming from near or far, for a night or a week, or if you’re just popping in for a meal and a drink with friends, we’re confident you’ll enjoy your visit. After all, with 25 years in the business, we’ve learnt a thing or two about great customer service.

Contact us to find out more, or come in and see us today. We’re looking forward to meeting you.