An ex BBC broadcasting centre, which has just undergone a huge £4 million restoration project under new ownership, will be officially re-opening at the end of the month as a new luxurious hotel.The Wood Norton, which is situated in the heart of Worcestershire, just a few miles from the Cotswolds, and Shakespeare’s Stratford-Upon-Avon, will be hosting an exclusive complimentary champagne reception. The event will mark the end of a magnificent refurbishment project, which has seen the building transform from an old BBC broadcasting centre into a stunning 50-room lavish hotel and restaurant.
Oliver Cooke, general manager of The Wood Norton, says: “We’re absolutely thrilled with the results. The building looks fantastic, and will make for a great place for holiday makers and business professionals to eat and stay.”
He continues: “The building is steeped in history, having been built originally as a hunting lodge for European Royalty in 1897. It’s since been the home of the BBC for over 60 years, and we’re now looking to create our own piece of history by turning it into a fantastic get-away.”
The BBC bought the site in 1939 to establish an emergency broadcasting centre away from London. It became one of the largest broadcasting centres in Europe with an average output of 1,300 programmes a week. When the war was over, Wood Norton became the BBC’s engineering training centre.
The official re-opening will be taking place on Thursday 29th November. Peter Luff Member of Parliament for Mid Worcestershire, along with the local Mayors (Mayor of Evesham, Cllr Robert W Raphael and the Mayor of Pershore, Cllr Charles Tucker) will be in attendance, along with members of the BBC, business professionals and local residents. On the night, Oliver and his team will be providing hotel tours. Whilst in the main dining room, guests will have the opportunity to sample tasters from the new menu.
Throughout the evening there will also be a live jazz band, plus head chef Gary Wheeler will be providing live demonstrations and talking through the hotel’s food offerings.
Oliver concludes: “We’ve got a fantastic, experienced, friendly team in place. And we’re looking forward to introducing ourselves to the world! Bring on the 29th – The Wood Norton doors will be officially open!”
