I’m thrilled to sit down with Katarina Railko, a seasoned expert in hospitality and tourism, whose extensive experience in the travel industry and passion for entertainment and events have made her a respected voice in the field. With a particular flair for expos and conferences, Katarina brings a wealth of insight into what makes a destination truly stand out. Today, we’re diving into the recent recognition of Foxhills Club & Resort with the prestigious AA Four Red Star award, exploring what this achievement means, how Foxhills distinguishes itself in the competitive landscape, and the strategies behind creating unforgettable guest experiences.
Can you tell us what the AA Four Red Star award signifies for a destination like Foxhills Club & Resort?
Absolutely, this award is a huge deal. It’s the highest recognition from the AA, given to only a select group of hotels across the UK—152 to be exact. For Foxhills, it’s a validation of their commitment to exceptional quality, hospitality, and service. It places them in an elite category, not just in Surrey but nationwide, and it’s a signal to guests that they’re in for a top-tier experience, whether they’re there for leisure or business.
How does Foxhills stand out among other hotels and resorts in Surrey and the South East?
Foxhills has a unique blend of old-world charm and modern luxury. The historic 19th-century Manor House offers a sense of timeless elegance, while their state-of-the-art facilities—think two Championship golf courses and a top-notch wellness center—cater to today’s travelers. It’s this balance that creates a distinctive vibe. Plus, being so close to London yet tucked away in a 400-acre estate gives guests both accessibility and a peaceful escape.
What goes into maintaining the outstanding hospitality and service standards that earned Foxhills this recognition?
It all starts with the team. Foxhills invests heavily in their staff, ensuring they’re trained to anticipate guest needs and deliver personalized service. They also prioritize feedback, actively listening to what guests say to fine-tune their offerings. It’s about creating a culture where every interaction, no matter how small, leaves a lasting impression.
Foxhills is known as a prime location for meetings and events. What makes it so attractive for business guests?
Location is a big factor—just minutes from major highways and a quick train ride from London, it’s incredibly convenient. But beyond that, they offer a variety of dedicated spaces, from sleek meeting rooms to expansive outdoor areas perfect for team-building. They strike a great balance between work and relaxation, ensuring business groups can be productive while also unwinding with activities like golf or spa treatments.
There’s been significant investment in Foxhills’ facilities recently. Can you share some details about these enhancements?
Over the past 18 months, Foxhills has poured resources into upgrading their spaces. All 66 bedrooms have been refreshed to elevate comfort and style, and their leisure facilities, especially around golf and wellness, have seen major improvements. These updates aren’t just cosmetic—they’re designed to enhance the overall guest experience, and early feedback suggests visitors are loving the changes.
With over 70 employees staying for five years or more, how does Foxhills foster such loyalty among its team?
It’s all about creating a supportive environment. Foxhills offers clear career paths, from entry-level roles to senior management, and they invest in ongoing development. They also celebrate their long-serving staff—some have been there over 25 years—with events like Long Service Dinners. This builds a family-like atmosphere where people feel valued and motivated to stay.
How does Foxhills tailor experiences to cater to diverse guests, from families to business travelers?
Personalization is key. For families, they offer activities and amenities that appeal to all ages, like tennis courts and leisure programs. Business travelers get tailored support with flexible meeting spaces and networking opportunities. Golf enthusiasts, meanwhile, have access to world-class courses. They also add unique touches, like customizing dining options, to ensure every guest feels their needs are met.
What is your forecast for the future of destinations like Foxhills in the hospitality and events industry?
I think places like Foxhills are well-positioned to thrive. As travelers increasingly seek destinations that offer both luxury and versatility—spaces where they can work, relax, and play—resorts that combine historic charm with modern amenities will stand out. With their focus on personalized service and continuous improvement, I see Foxhills and similar properties leading the way in redefining what a premium hospitality experience looks like.
