A hotel in a Sussex village is set to appear on a popular evening television programme later this week.
The Castle Inn Hotel in Bramber, close to Steyning, will feature on Channel 5’s The Hotel Inspector on March 26 at 9pm, shortly after The Navigator Hotel in Bognor Regis was showcased on the programme.
The establishment dates back to the 16th century and is run by Jack Visick and Danny Baker.
Mr Visick explained that they acquired the 20-bedroom property in November 2024, but by January and February business had virtually dried up.
He described situations where the pair found themselves alone in an empty building, uncertain how to reverse their fortunes.
Seeking new approaches, the two owners contacted The Hotel Inspector, with host Alex Polizzi providing her hospitality knowledge to the venue.
The programme’s description labels The Castle Inn Hotel as having tacky decor, mismatched rooms, and a soulless dining area.
Mr Visick noted that when they assumed control, the enterprise lacked any clear direction.
He stated that even before the broadcast, Ms Polizzi’s influence had been considerable, assisting them in establishing a fresh identity for the establishment, streamlining their offering, and bringing focus to what had been a muddled operation.
The episode follows The Navigator Hotel’s appearance on the programme earlier this month.
The revamp of the seafront property, overseen by former educator Kathleen Lamb, was hailed by Ms Polizzi as an outstanding success.
Mr Visick suggested that The Castle Inn’s narrative mirrors the broader difficulties confronting the hospitality sector throughout Sussex and the nation.
He mentioned that as household costs pressure patrons and expenses keep climbing, profitability has become increasingly constrained.
Independent businesses are facing an extremely challenging period, with numerous establishments compelled to shut down or reconsider their strategy.
Remaining viable presents significant difficulties, let alone generating profit.
The venue will hold a special screening to celebrate the broadcast.
Other West Sussex establishments previously featured on the programme include St Mary’s Gate Inn in Arundel.