Luxury Travel

VIP-Fly, a leading airport concierge specialist, is expanding its presence in the UK with the launch of premium VIP meet-and-assist services at Manchester Airport. Effective immediately, travellers flying on commercial airlines can experience a seamless and stress-free journey through all terminals, with personalised concierge support.

As the UK’s third-largest airport and a major international hub, Manchester Airport is expected to handle around 30 million passengers in 2025. With VIP-Fly’s exclusive services, travellers can enjoy tailored assistance designed to enhance convenience, maximise time, and elevate their overall airport experience.

“We are thrilled to introduce our bespoke concierge services at Manchester Airport, one of the UK’s busiest and most prestigious airports,” said Simon Williamson, Director at VIP-Fly. “We are looking forward to providing both leisure and business travellers with a seamless and memorable experience, ensuring every journey begins and ends on a high note. We proudly maintain a 5-star TrustScore on Trustpilot for our exceptional service.”

Stephen Turner, Chief Commercial Officer at Manchester Airport, added: “We’re pleased to see the launch of this new service from VIP-Fly, which will give passengers the option of a concierge escort through the terminal to their flight. This is a service that we know passengers who are looking to really elevate their airport experience will value.”

VIP-Fly is already present at Birmingham, Liverpool and Leeds Bradford Airports and is targeting more airports in 2025, Williamson confirmed.

VIP-Fly’s Meet and Assist Services Include:

• Personalised Concierge Support – Dedicated concierges guide customers through every step of their airport journey.
• Expedited Airport Experience – Assistance with baggage and priority processing.
• Premium Lounge Access & Chauffeur Drive – A relaxing pre-flight experience complemented by a pre-booked chauffeur service to and from Manchester Airport.
• Tailored VIP Assistance – Customised support for arrival and departure services for individual and group travel and MICE.

The service is available to book online, VIP-Fly is also offering trade rates. as well as developing a range of services for the travel trade, offering a competitive edge to agents, tour operators, airlines and corporate clients looking to enhance their offerings.

The owners of Jesmond Dene House, part of the esteemed Kronen Collection, announced the acquisition of Borrowdale Gates Hotel, a historic country retreat in the heart of the Lake District. This acquisition strengthened The Kronen Collection’s position as a growing boutique hotel group, adding to its expanding portfolio, which includes Jesmond Dene House in Newcastle, The Crown Hotel in Wetheral, and The Kilbirnie in Newquay.

Nestled at the gateway to the picturesque Borrowdale Valley, Borrowdale Gates Hotel had long been cherished for its timeless charm and stunning panoramic views of the surrounding fells. Originally established as a country retreat, the hotel became known for its warm hospitality, fine dining, and tranquil atmosphere—qualities that aligned seamlessly with The Kronen Collection’s ethos of “boutique luxury and warmth with personal service.”

This news marks an exciting development for the North of England-based owners of Jesmond Dene House, who have seen their flagship hotel in Newcastle become an award-winning destination for discerning guests from across the UK. Adding Borrowdale Gates to The Kronen Collection aims to offer travellers the opportunity to enjoy an authentic Lake District experience, complemented by the same exceptional service found at Jesmond Dene House and other properties within the group.

“We’ve always been passionate about expanding our portfolio with unique properties that offer both charm and exceptional location,” says a spokesman from The Kronen Collection. “Borrowdale Gates is an outstanding addition due to its rich history, stunning location in the Lake District, and the potential to provide guests with a truly authentic experience in one of the UK’s most picturesque regions.”

In keeping with The Kronen Collection’s commitment to individuality, Borrowdale Gates will retain its distinct character, ensuring that the local heritage and welcoming atmosphere remain at the core of guests’ experiences.

“We remain dedicated to building on the success of Borrowdale Gates, which has been shaped by the expertise and commitment of its custodians,” confirms a Spokesman. “As we introduce new initiatives, there will be opportunities for growth and development, further strengthening our reputation for excellence.”

Borrowdale Gates exemplifies The Kronen Collection’s hallmark blend of personal service, luxurious comfort, and a setting that celebrates the local environment—mirroring the ethos at Jesmond Dene House in Newcastle, The Crown Hotel, and The Kilbirnie.

“Borrowdale Gates encapsulates everything we stand for at The Kronen Collection,” says Christina Stephenson, Group Sales & Marketing Manager. “It’s a charming, intimate hotel set against one of the UK’s most stunning landscapes. Our ethos revolves around offering guests a truly bespoke experience, and Borrowdale Gates’ warm, homely atmosphere allows us to deliver that beautifully.”

The Kronen Collection looks forward to welcoming travellers to Borrowdale Gates under its ownership. Plans are already underway to introduce new experiences highlighting the area’s exceptional natural beauty, cementing Borrowdale Gates as a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the Lake District.