Cateys 2026: Hotel of the Year – Group: Kimpton Fitzroy London

The Kimpton Fitzroy London in Bloomsbury has had a phenomenal year, achieving record guest satisfaction scores and staff retention rates as well as several industry accolades. The Cateys judges were especially keen to applaud the strong leadership at the luxury property, who have succeeded in putting the hotel on the map both locally and internationally. 

Since opening its doors in late 2018 as the UK’s first Kimpton hotel, the 334-bedroom, Grade II-listed heritage property has transformed Russell Square into a luxury lifestyle tourist destination. Creative partnerships with nearby businesses, such as a cherry cheong and custard Kimpton bun created with Fortitude Bakehouse, and a limited-edition china plate collection by illustrator Fee Greening, ramped up press coverage and social media engagement. Hotel staff also contribute weekly to the upkeep of Russell Square through its ‘Clean the Park’ initiative, demonstrating Kimpton Fiztroy’s broader commitment to reinvigorating the neighbourhood.

Garreth Walsh, who joined as general manager in 2023, has created a culture of empowerment, collaboration and continuous improvement at the hotel. He has supported director of revenue Benoit Raffi in his nomination for an Acorn Award, recognising the industry’s most promising 30 under 30, setting Raffi on the path to then winning Revenue Manager of the Year at the 2025 Hotel Cateys. In the past year, the hotel also secured 17 internal promotions and had an average staff turnover of just 2.8%, substantially below industry benchmarks. 

A testimonial from Lucy Clamp, HR business partner at Kimpton Fitzroy London, reads: “What truly sets Kimpton Fitzroy apart as an employer is the willingness of managers to invest in potential. I have seen opportunities offered to internal candidates who demonstrate the right attitude and work ethic, even if they do not yet have all the technical skills.”

As well as a compelling people strategy, the hotel has been commercially lucrative, achieving significant increases to gross operating profit (GOP), average daily rates and corporate negotiation rates. Several departments, such as meetings and events, have exceeded budget expectations.

The team have also logged more than 1,300 improvement ideas over the period, of which 900 have been approved for implementation, showcasing the hotel’s ability to react quickly to demands. Staff are highly supportive of each other, with senior management approving more than £43,000 in recognition vouchers through Bravo, its internal recognition platform.

As the judges said, the team at Kimpton Fitzroy London have clearly demonstrated their “passion and commitment to looking after their people and supporting the community in becoming a true destination”.

What the judges said

“A great example at a hotel that continues to evolve and grow, outperforming in every area of the business.” Danny Pecorelli

“This hotel has been quietly focused in delivering consistent improvement, putting itself on the map both locally and internationally. Garreth Walsh and his team have shown themselves to be well-rounded and highly competent across all the important disciplines.” Gareth Banner 

“The hotel has had a great year and clearly demonstrated its passion and commitment to looking after its people and supporting the community in becoming a true destination. The excellent leadership have put this hotel on the map. A truly deserving winner.” Jennifer McCabe

The shortlist

• Galgorm Collection
• Kimpton Fitzroy London
• The Montague on the Gardens, London
• The Savoy, London

The judges

• Gareth Banner, the Ned
• James B Clarke, London Hilton on Park Lane
• Jennifer McCabe, art’otel London Battersea Power Station
  
• Danny Pecorelli, Exclusive Collection
• Laura Sharpe, Firmdale Hotels
• David Taylor, Lore Group