Revitalizing The Navigator Hotel
“I opened a hotel four years ago. It signalled the end of my marriage, I almost lost my mind and it’s quite hard work,” remarked Alex Polizzi, the well-known presenter of The Hotel Inspector. Her candid reflection highlights the personal challenges she faced while managing her own hotel, a journey that resonates with many in the hospitality industry.
Located in Bognor Regis, The Navigator Hotel has recently undergone significant refurbishment under the ownership of Kathleen Lamb, who purchased the establishment in September 2024. The hotel, which features 12 rooms, was previously described as “a little tired, dated and old-fashioned” before the renovations. The changes have not only improved the hotel’s aesthetics but also its marketability, with sea-view rooms now priced at £135, up from the initial £110.
Polizzi’s involvement with The Navigator Hotel came at a crucial time for Lamb, who admitted, “I called on Alex because I was getting a little bit out of my depth.” This collaboration has proven beneficial, as Polizzi’s expertise in the industry has helped guide Lamb through the complexities of hotel management and refurbishment.
Reflecting on the hotel’s transformation, Lamb stated, “Everything was dark green and brown – it felt very unloved. I’ve been working hard to put the love back into it.” Her dedication to revitalizing The Navigator Hotel has not only enhanced its appeal but has also contributed to a renewed sense of community in Bognor Regis.
Polizzi’s personal journey, including her divorce from Marcus Miller in 2024 after a 12-year engagement, adds depth to her professional endeavors. She has two children, Olga and Rocco, and has openly discussed the impact of her marriage breakdown on her life and career. This context makes her commitment to helping others in the hospitality sector even more poignant.
The episode of The Hotel Inspector featuring The Navigator Hotel aired on March 5, 2026, showcasing the improvements made and the challenges overcome. As Polizzi continues to navigate her own path in the industry, her experiences serve as a source of inspiration for hotel owners and managers alike.
Looking ahead, The Navigator Hotel plans to expand its offerings by introducing craft workshops, aiming to attract more visitors and enhance the guest experience. This development signifies a positive step forward for both the hotel and the local community, as it seeks to establish itself as a destination for creativity and relaxation.
Details remain unconfirmed regarding the specific timeline for these new initiatives, but the commitment to growth and improvement at The Navigator Hotel is evident. As Alex Polizzi and Kathleen Lamb work together, their partnership exemplifies the resilience and innovation that define the hospitality industry.