Solent Hotel and Spa in Fareham – part of the Thwaites hospitality group – has completely renovated its wedding venue space, named the Hambledon Suite.
24 July 2026…// £200,000 was invested into the project, which saw a complete overhaul of interiors, technologies and facilities, designed with soon-to-be weds and large functions in mind.
Works included the introduction of dynamic lighting, installation of state-of-the-art audio-visual equipment, bespoke artwork, elevated window dressings, a comprehensive re-decoration, French polishing on the furniture, and new carpets throughout.
Jeremy Pardey, who recently joined the business as general manager, said: “We’ve never been more committed to enhancing our guest experience than we are right now. This investment is one of many, and we hope that it displays our versatility as a venue.
“Every single detail in this renovation has been well and truly thought through – we’ve had our soon-to-be brides and grooms in mind at every stage of this project. It was important for us to create somewhere that was going to resonate with the real people who use the space. It was our mission to showcase a new space which couples, families and friends alike will make ever-lasting memories in.”
Specific details on the upgrades include two 100-inch high-definition television screens, and a third drop down screen; adjustable and colour-changing coffer lighting – technological investments Thwaites hope will enhance a couple’s day through the ability to create a truly bespoke experience.
The design direction came from in-house head of interior design, Rachel Wooton. Neutral and timeless interiors have been the focus for the re-design, with the aim being to create a completely versatile space that wedding pairs can tailor to their special day – with no constraints of colour, pattern or theme clashing.
Rachel said: “As we do with all of our renovations, we wanted to elevate the interiors of this particular room to reflect a sense of place for the beautiful surroundings of Hampshire, but also ensuring that we created a space that couples can make their own. We have installed bespoke artwork, and we worked with local contractor, Skyline Constructions, to help us bring that locality inside.
“The look and feel of a space is so important when re-designing a wedding venue, and we hope that our sensitive, carefully considered choices elevate someone’s ever so special day.”
Other works included refurbishment of the main suite and the breakout area, as well as a re-decoration of the toilet facilities.
The investment is overseen by brand-new general manager, Jeremy Pardey, who was appointed to head up the hotel’s overall operation earlier this year. He joins the team with decades of hospitality experience; most recently including all three sites for the holiday resort operator, Butlin’s, where he oversaw a £100m investment which included the construction of its waterpark and pool facilities.
The transformation is part of a long-term development and investment plan, and comes after Solent Hotel and Spa saw a complete refurbishment of its pool hall last year. After a six-figure renovation and three months closure for the works to complete, the space now boasts a brand-new pool area, as well as a salt sauna, steam room, jacuzzi and storm shower.
Thwaites has also confirmed the development of a scheme to invest a further £1.2m into Solent Hotel and Spa’s bedrooms; a move which is intended to elevate the existing offering. Details on this are set to be revealed in the coming months.
Solent Hotel and Spa is conveniently placed between Southampton and Portsmouth. It boasts a rosette open-flame dining experience, a modern business centre, a brand-new spa and pool facility, and a variety of room types – like family and suites.
For more information or to book, visit the website here: Southampton & Hampshire Hotels | Solent Hotel Deals & Stay
