Refurbished voco The Clifton Folkestone Hotel Celebrates First Anniversary
A day of celebrations marked the first anniversary of an historic Folkestone hotel joining the voco group, part of IHG hotels and resorts.
Following a multimillion-pound refurbishment, voco The Clifton Folkestone welcomed hundreds of guests to showcase its newly renovated function rooms. Over the last year, both bedrooms and communal areas have been completely transformed with luxurious touches throughout the hotel.
The hotel is owned by the Managing Director of Leaf Hotels Group Kanagaratnam Rajamenon, known as Menon, who said: “A year ago, we opened our doors with a vision – to create a vibrant, welcoming space that reflects the energy, creativity, and warm hospitality of Folkestone and the wider Kent community.
“I want to extend my deepest gratitude to the entire voco Clifton team who have been on this journey with me from the beginning when we were part of Best Western. The hotel is so much more than bricks and mortar – it is passion, belief, commitment and love that pours from everyone who is part of the Clifton.”
To mark the anniversary, a business breakfast saw speakers deliver updates to an audience of local business people, followed by a lunchtime networking event, organised by Kent Invicta Chamber of Commerce. The day culminated in a celebratory party that included traditional Sri Lankan dances, ice sculptures, a huge cake and a sumptuous buffet. The evening also saw the launch of book ‘History of The Clifton Hotel’ by Deborah Jones which charts the history of the hotel from 1864.
During a speech from Menon, he announced Leaf Hotels Group had purchased Terlingham Vineyard – the boutique vineyard, known for its green credentials, as well as its award-winning wines and spirits.
Jackie Wilks, who was one of Terlingham’s previous owners and will be running the vineyard, said: “Menon shares our passion for craft, sustainability, and celebrating the best of Kent. With the support of Leaf Hotels Group, we will continue to produce our fabulous, terroir-driven wines, while expanding the ways people can experience the Terlingham magic – from tastings and events to collaborations across their hotels. We’ll be staying true to everything people love about Terlingham wine: handcrafted, sustainable, and rooted in this wonderful corner of Kent.”
The new function rooms, suitable for weddings, celebrations or business meetings can hold 80 people for dinner or up to 110 for a standing reception. Located alongside the function suite is the new Bouverie Bar, which offers guests an exclusive area to enjoy bespoke cocktails and speciality gins.
For more information, visit thecliftonhotel.com
