Party in the park part of growing trend for Leicester’s tourists

It doesn't get much better than a fully booked weekend in the hospitality industry.

September was always looking busy for us as graduation bookings started to come in, mixed with corporate reservations.

And as 70,000 people descended on Leicester to witness music icons Kylie Minogue, Tears for Fears, Pretenders, James Blunt, Busted (etc etc), we knew it would be a great weekend.

The atmosphere throughout The Gresham was ecstatic, with elated guests checking in and getting ready to make memories that will last a lifetime.

Of course the staff were exceptional, working round the clock to ensure the guests had the smooth and luxurious stay they'd expect, so a massive well done to them.

It was an occasion that reminds me how much I enjoy this job.

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This review from the weekend really sums it up for me:

Super Hotel, Super Location, Super Staff

What a lovely gem in Leicester. The staff were amazing at getting us into our studio room early (before 10am). We were hoping just to store our luggage early - they got us access to the room. Which was super - modern and well equipped and quiet. Great look location, great bar.

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The Gresham team enjoyed Radio 2 In The Park, Leicester

Radio 2 In The Park isn't a one off though - Leicester and Leicestershire has seen annual growth in tourism since the pandemic, as more and more people visit the city.

More than 9 million tourists came to Leicester in 2022, up on 2019 levels, contributing over £2 billion to the local economy.

With so much to enjoy and experience here it's easy to see why our numbers are up.

The National Space Centre, Richard III Visitor Centre and Curve Theatre take the headlines, but there's an array of top attractions within walking distance of The Gresham Aparthotel alone, not to mention those slightly further afield.

In fact, inews featured Leicester this month as the "affordable food capital" for an "underrated" city break, including some fantastic recommendations with The Gresham mentioned as the place to stay.

From the classic pork pie and Red Leicester cheese to vegan delights and Indian thali, there's something new to excite everyone's taste buds, local or tourist.

After a packed summer, now the nights draw in, our attention turns to the festive period and planning for what promises to be another wonderful Christmas time.

5 tips for a beautiful bed

“If you want to change the world, start by making your bed”

Perhaps the most famous line from retired Navy SEAL Admiral William H. McRavens during his 2014 speech for the graduating class from the University of Texas at Austin.

September marks the start of a new year for many. Schools return and people get back into a new routine after summer breaks.

Autumn equals cozy, it is a time to reflect and work out ways to reach goals and take forward positive habits.

Making the bed is one habit that can happen every day. According to Charles Duhigg in his book, The Power of Habit, the daily habit that can improve productivity is as he says; "making your bed every morning is correlated with better productivity, a greater sense of well-being, and stronger skills at sticking with a budget.”

Since opening in November 2021, the award-winning Gresham Aparthotel based in Leicester makes hundreds of beds every week.

What better way to start your day than by using these expert tips from housekeeping manager Karolina on making the bed in the best possible way.

By following these steps, you can create a comfortable and beautiful bed that will make you feel relaxed and refreshed every time you sleep on it. Here are her top five tips:

1) Choose the right bedding materials.

“At The Gresham Aparthotel we use high-quality bedding materials that are soft, durable, and breathable.

"They include a mattress protector, a flat sheet, a duvet, and four pillows, plus two decorative cushions and a bed runner for extra warmth and coziness.”

2) Smooth out the wrinkles.

“Before you put the sheets on the bed, make sure they are smooth and wrinkle-free. You can use an iron or a steamer to remove any creases.

"This will make your bed look neat and tidy, as well as prevent any discomfort from sleeping on wrinkled sheets.”

3) Tuck in the sheets and duvet properly.

“Start by placing the mattress protector over the mattress and tucking it under the corners. Then, spread the flat sheet over the mattress protector.

"Tuck the top hem of the flat sheet under the mattress along the sides and foot of the bed.

"Place the duvet on the bed, leaving some space on the top for the pillows, and tuck it under the mattress just like you did with the flat sheet.

"Make sure the sheets and duvet are snug and secure, without any loose or hanging edges.”

4) Plump it up, fluff and arrange the pillows.

“We use six pillows per double bed: four standard pillows and two decorative cushions for extra flair. Fluff them up by shaking them gently and tapping them on both sides.

"Then, place them on the bed in a staggered arrangement: first, the standard pillows against the headboard, then the square pillows in front of them."

5) Add some finishing touches.

“To make your bed look more inviting and stylish, you can add some finishing touches such as a bed runner.”

The Gresham Aparthotel has high-end, tastefully decorated apartments and studios, there is a home from home feeling with the bonus of hotel service and care.

Each of the 121 stylish and unique serviced rooms contains a fully-wequipped kitchenette, ensuite facilities, shower room, dining area and lounge area with a smart TV.

The flexibility of the rooms means guests can enjoy a short or long stay, whether that is for business or leisure including festivals, events, a city break, meetings, seminars, or graduations.

Guests at The Gresham can be sure of a beautiful bed… and with these tips you can enjoy the same luxury at home.

Celebrate Christmas in the city

2023 is going by quickly and Christmas is the ideal time to reflect, rejoice, celebrate and feel special.

Cities at Christmas become magical places and Leicester is no exception. The traditions take centre stage such as the stunning Christmas tree located next to the iconic clock tower, the big-wheel alongside the ice-rink and elegant lights twinkling throughout the city centre streets. Venues truly come to life with soirees, laughter, delectable food and fun.

Securing that ideal and unique gift is also made even easier in Leicester as it is home to big-name and high-street stores, amazing independent boutiques and one of Europe’s largest covered markets.

Local attractions such as The Guildhall, The Athena and Jubilee Square host special Christmas experiences and memorable family events. Plus, Curve is the home of diverse, exciting, and inspiring theatre including incredible Christmas productions.

With an array of choice, it is no wonder businesses choose to book their celebratory Christmas team outing in the city. And the award-winning Gresham Aparthotel makes the perfect base to stay at. Nestled conveniently (on a traffic-free street) in the heart of Leicester with well-known and independent cafes, boutiques, restaurants, and famous sporting grounds conveniently close by.

Adored by guests - including several VIPs - the unique boutique apartments at The Gresham are clean, large, and aesthetically pleasing. The spacious set up makes getting ready to go out feel super stylish. With features such as kitchenettes (to keep the bottle of fizz cool) and complimentary toiletries, a hair dryer, and fresh towels the little touches help make guests feel great.

The two sky rooms provide a jaw dropping skyline view of the city. And at the end of the day or night - no long taxi ride is required - and a very good night's sleep awaits.

Mark Hills, General Manager explains: “The Gresham always fits people’s plans perfectly. Our facilities allow guests complete freedom and flexibility. We know they like that the rooms feel like home, only better.

“When we speak to many of our guests, we find out they are here to attend a special occasion such as a wedding, graduation ceremony, a sports match, or a show. The location is unbeatable so guests can easily get to where they need to be hassle-free.

“The team and I are dedicated to making sure people have the best stay possible to complement their visit to Leicester. We like to think that we set the standard for living well away from home.

“For any businesses coming into the city to celebrate this Christmas please feel free to get in touch to see if we can accommodate your overnight requirements and help make your Christmas celebration sparkle even more. We recommend booking sooner rather than later, especially if there is a specific date in mind.”

Find out about The Gresham's Christmas Offers and Packages.