The results are in for the UK's annual hotel showdown, and the pattern remains strikingly familiar. Premier Inn has secured its position as the nation's favourite hotel chain for an impressive third consecutive year, while Britannia Hotels finds itself languishing at the bottom of the pile once again.
The Cream of the Crop: Premier Inn's Winning Formula
In the comprehensive Which? survey of over 4,500 British travellers, Premier Inn emerged as the undisputed champion. The budget-friendly chain earned an outstanding customer score of 78%, receiving top marks for its cleanliness, comfortable beds, and overall value for money. Guests consistently praised the reliable quality and service standards across its numerous locations.
Following closely behind were smaller chains, with Hub by Premier Inn securing second place and Wetherspoons Hotels, known for their prime locations above popular pubs, taking a respectable position in the rankings.
The Bottom Dweller: Britannia's Continued Struggle
At the opposite end of the spectrum, Britannia Hotels delivered a performance that will surprise few regular travellers. The chain managed a meagre customer score of just 48%, earning the dubious honour of being the only hotel group to receive a single star for cleanliness. Guests described their experiences in stark terms, with one respondent summing it up as "like stepping back into the 1970s."
What Makes a Winner?
The survey results highlight clear patterns in what British travellers value most:
- Consistency - Knowing what to expect regardless of location
- Cleanliness - Spotless rooms and facilities remain non-negotiable
- Comfort - Quality beds and peaceful night's sleep
- Value - Fair pricing for the quality delivered
Rory Boland, Editor of Which? Travel, emphasised that the results show "you don't have to pay over the odds for a comfortable, clean room and a good standard of service." The research demonstrates that budget chains can and do outperform their more expensive counterparts when they maintain high standards.
For travellers planning their next UK getaway, the message is clear: the gap between the best and worst hotel experiences remains vast, making informed choices more valuable than ever.
