I’m thrilled to sit down with Katarina Railko, a seasoned expert in hospitality with a rich background in travel and tourism. Her insights into entertainment and events, especially expos and conferences, make her the perfect person to discuss the exciting transformation happening at Daresbury Park Hotel in Cheshire. Under Katarina’s guidance, this multi-million dollar refurbishment is set to redefine luxury and guest experience as the hotel joins the prestigious Elite Venue Selection portfolio. Today, we’ll explore the innovative design changes, the vision behind new amenities like the health club, and how this project aligns with broader goals for elite hospitality in premium locations.
Can you walk us through the most striking changes happening at Daresbury Park Hotel with the refurbishment of all 228 bedrooms and seven conference suites? What inspired this bold redesign?
I’m genuinely excited about the scope of this transformation. Every single one of the 228 bedrooms and bathrooms is being completely remodeled with sleek, modern fixtures and furnishings that scream sophistication. The conference suites are getting a similar overhaul to ensure they’re not just functional but also visually stunning, perfect for corporate events or weddings. The inspiration came from listening to past guest feedback—people wanted spaces that felt fresh yet timeless, a place they could truly unwind or work productively. I recall a particular comment from a business traveler who mentioned feeling uninspired by the dated decor; that stuck with me and fueled our push for a design that energizes. We’ve aimed to create an environment that impacts guests the moment they walk in, making them feel like they’ve stepped into something special, whether it’s the calming tones of the rooms or the state-of-the-art setups in the meeting spaces.
What’s the vision behind the brand-new health club with its indoor pool, steam room, and fitness suite? How did you decide on these specific amenities for the hotel?
The health club is a cornerstone of our vision to offer a holistic experience at Daresbury Park. We wanted a space where guests could recharge—whether that’s a quick swim in the heated indoor pool, unwinding in the steam room, or pushing limits in the fitness suite with a squash court. The decision came from analyzing what modern travelers crave: a balance of relaxation and activity, especially after long journeys or intense workdays. During planning, we faced challenges like ensuring the layout maximized space without feeling cramped, but seeing the design come to life with its serene, spa-like vibe has been incredibly rewarding. I envision guests stepping into this area and instantly feeling stress melt away, with the gentle sound of water and the warmth of the steam creating a little oasis. This sets us apart in Halton as a destination not just for stayovers, but for wellness.
How does Daresbury Park fit into the Elite Venue Selection portfolio of 15 luxurious hotels, and what makes its Cheshire location stand out? Can you share a memorable moment from another Elite venue that mirrors your hopes here?
Daresbury Park is a gem in our Elite Venue Selection portfolio of 15 unique, high-end hotels. It fits perfectly because it embodies our mission to offer distinctive experiences in prime locations, tailored for everything from weddings to corporate retreats. Cheshire, and specifically Halton, stands out with its blend of accessibility and charm—just three minutes from the M56 motorway and a short hop from Manchester Airport, yet surrounded by the serene beauty of the North West countryside. That duality makes it ideal for diverse guests. I’m reminded of a wedding at another Elite venue where the couple was floored by how the setting elevated their day—guests kept commenting on the seamless blend of luxury and personal touches in every detail. That’s exactly what I hope for here: creating moments where guests feel the space was made just for them, whether they’re sealing a business deal or saying ‘I do.’
The addition of a new coffee lounge and landscaped gardens is intriguing. What’s the story behind these features, and how do they enhance the overall guest experience?
The coffee lounge and landscaped gardens were born from a desire to craft spaces where guests can connect or simply pause. We envisioned the lounge as a cozy yet chic spot—think the aroma of freshly brewed coffee wafting through the air, soft seating, and natural light pouring in. The gardens, on the other hand, are an extension of that calm, a place to stroll or sit with a view that soothes the soul after a busy day. These features tie into the guest experience by offering little havens within the hotel; they’re not just add-ons but integral to making people feel at home. I insisted on personal touches like local art in the lounge to spark conversation, and I can’t wait to see guests snapping photos in the gardens or lingering over a latte. It’s about creating a vibe of warmth and discovery, something I’ve seen missing in many properties.
How has the hotel’s strategic location near the M56 motorway and Manchester Airport shaped the redesign plans? What specific elements are you incorporating for business and leisure travelers?
The location near the M56 and Manchester Airport was a huge factor in our redesign strategy. We know many of our guests are on tight schedules, whether they’re jetting in for a conference or exploring Cheshire on a quick getaway, so convenience is key. For business travelers, we’ve upgraded the seven conference suites with cutting-edge tech and flexible layouts, plus high-speed Wi-Fi throughout to keep them connected. Leisure guests will appreciate the pet-friendly policy and the 400-space car park for easy day trips, alongside relaxing spots like the new health club to decompress. I’ve always believed luxury shouldn’t mean sacrificing practicality—imagine a traveler stepping off a long flight, checking in effortlessly, and finding a quiet lounge to regroup. We’ve worked hard to balance that ease with upscale touches, ensuring every guest, no matter their purpose, feels catered to in a meaningful way.
What’s your forecast for the future of luxury hospitality in locations like Cheshire, given projects like Daresbury Park?
I’m incredibly optimistic about the future of luxury hospitality in areas like Cheshire. With projects like Daresbury Park, set to reopen in March 2026, we’re seeing a shift toward creating destinations that blend accessibility with unparalleled experiences, drawing in both local and international guests. I think we’ll see more properties focusing on personalized, multi-purpose spaces—think wellness hubs alongside corporate facilities—because travelers today want it all. My hope is that regions like this become synonymous with innovative hospitality, where every stay feels like a curated journey. It’s exciting to be part of that wave, and I believe Daresbury Park will set a benchmark for what’s possible when you prioritize both heart and strategy in hotel transformations.
