The Royal Maritime Hotel, one of Portsmouth’s most cherished historic landmarks, has announced a new partnership with BWH Hotels GB, the largest collection of over 200 independent hotels in Great Britain – a move designed to secure the hotel’s charitable future while expanding its global reach.
Founded in 1850 and operating today as a Charitable Incorporated Organisation (CIO), the hotel reinvests all surpluses into supporting serving and veteran members of HM Armed Forces. By joining Best Western Hotels GB’s global booking network, the Royal Maritime Hotel will now reach millions of travellers worldwide – helping attract more guests, generate more support, and spotlight Portsmouth as a proud island city.
“Our compass has always been Where Service Matters, for our team, our guests and those that serve,” said David Knight, CEO of the Royal Maritime Hotel. “Partnering with Best Western allows that service to reach further and resonate louder. We’re not changing our mission – we’re simply opening our doors wider so we can do even more good.”
Supporting Veterans Through Every Stay
Guests booking through bestwestern.co.uk or directly with the hotel will enjoy the same warm Portsmouth welcome, with every stay continuing to support veterans, the Armed Forces, and their families.
A Great Location, A Warm Welcome
Just a short walk from the iconic Spinnaker Tower, Gunwharf Quays, and Portsmouth Historic Dockyard, the Royal Maritime Hotel offers an ideal base for exploring attractions such as the Mary Rose Museum, HMS Victory, and HMS Warrior.
Open to the public, the hotel features the popular Horatio’s restaurant with its much-loved Sunday Carvery, several bars, and the Trafalgar ballroom. Recent refurbishments have included improvements to the library and other communal areas, while preserving the building’s distinctive maritime heritage.
Drink, Dance, Dine and Celebrate
Locals can support the charity too — by popping in for a drink or Sunday Carvery, joining an event, or applying to hire the function rooms privately. Every visit helps fund the hotel’s charitable work and keeps this special venue thriving at the heart of Portsmouth.
A Partnership with Purpose
For BWH Hotels, the collaboration brings a values-led heritage property into its GB collection. Tim Rumney, CEO at BWH Hotels GB, said: “The Royal Maritime Hotel is an important partnership for us, as one of Portsmouth’s most historic hotels that also supports veterans. We are focused on helping independent hotels like the Royal Maritime Hotel thrive, bringing in more visitors, supporting local tourism and driving bookings from around the world. All while ensuring they retain their independence, something we call ‘The Power of Two.’”
Local Impact for Portsmouth
The partnership promises tangible benefits for Portsmouth and its community:
- Increased tourism: Global visibility through Best Western’s platform.
- Sustainable charity: A stronger, self-funded model supporting veterans.
- Protected heritage: The hotel’s character, staff, and charitable mission remain unchanged.
David Knight said “After detailed consideration, it was clear that BWH Hotels GB was the perfect partner. Their global reputation, particularly across North America, and their respect for each property’s individuality align perfectly with our values as a charitable organisation. As a membership organisation with retained profit itself, their ethos of reinvestment mirrors our own mission to give back.”