In Thursday's episode of The Hotel Inspector, host Alex Polizzi came to the aid of best friends Jack and Danny, who had invested everything in running the 16th-century Castle Inn in Bramber, East Sussex. After six months, the pair were struggling with low occupancy, forcing Jack to dip into his wedding funds and Danny to relocate his young family from Birmingham.
Polizzi was unimpressed with the hotel's dated decor, describing the sitting area as 'ghastly' and likening it to a canteen. As part of her plan, she invited three duos to stay and provide feedback. One guest remarked that the white padded chairs were similar to those used in mental health hospitals, prompting Polizzi to declare, 'That's a new low!'
With a £5,000 makeover budget, the team modernised the dining area with green panelling and stylish furniture, and improved bedrooms by adding luggage racks and lamps while removing unnecessary items. The owners hosted a 'meet the owners' evening for locals, which proved a success.
Four weeks later, Jack and Danny reported positive results: 'The locals have been raving about the changes... We've noticed strong traction in repeat customers and new ones.' The Hotel Inspector continues Thursdays at 9pm on Channel 5.
