The Castle Hotel Windsor Bids Farewell to Sam Goss as He Embarks on New Hospitality Journey in UK

Published on September 17, 2025

After five successful years as general manager, Sam Goss has confirmed his departure from The Castle Hotel Windsor. Known for his strategic leadership, Goss helped the hotel achieve remarkable growth, particularly in the North American market, despite the challenges posed by the pandemic. His impact extended beyond guest relations to include a significant boost in the hotel’s meetings and events business, with 2024 events up 48% on pre-pandemic levels. As Goss embarks on a new chapter in his hospitality career, he has joined The Runnymede on Thames as general manager. This transition comes at a pivotal time for The Castle Hotel Windsor, which is set for a £9.5 million refurbishment. The hotel’s future looks bright, with new leadership and a multi-phase renovation planned to elevate its standing in the competitive UK hospitality market.

Achieving Remarkable Growth in Challenging Times

Sam Goss first joined The Castle Hotel Windsor in March 2020, just before the world was impacted by the global pandemic. Despite the challenges posed by COVID-19, Goss quickly adapted to the changing landscape of the hospitality sector. Under his leadership, The Castle Hotel Windsor saw a remarkable growth in its North American market, successfully attracting international guests. Additionally, Goss focused on expanding the hotel’s meetings and events business, which has flourished since his tenure began. In 2024, the hotel’s events business was reported to be up by an impressive 48% compared to pre-pandemic levels, a testament to Goss’s effective strategy and vision for growth.

Exciting Changes Ahead: A £9.5 Million Refurbishment

The news of Goss’s departure comes on the heels of exciting developments for The Castle Hotel Windsor. The Sutton Hotel Collection recently announced plans for a major £9.5 million refurbishment of the hotel. The multi-phase project, which is set to begin in November 2025, aims to revamp the hotel’s facilities and enhance its appeal in the ever-evolving UK hospitality market. The renovation is expected to be completed by late 2026, promising a modernized and refreshed experience for guests. The ambitious project will be overseen by Shaun Bowles, the newly appointed cluster general manager, who will manage both The Castle Hotel Windsor and The Francis Hotel Bath.

A New Chapter: Sam Goss Joins The Runnymede on Thames

Sam Goss has now joined The Runnymede on Thames, a Reserve by Warner Hotel, as its new general manager. He shared his excitement about joining the prestigious organization and expressed his eagerness to exceed the expectations of guests. As a seasoned leader in the hospitality industry, Goss’s expertise is expected to make a significant impact at The Runnymede on Thames, further cementing his reputation as a forward-thinking and results-driven manager.

The Future of The Castle Hotel Windsor and Beyond

In conclusion, Sam Goss’s departure from The Castle Hotel Windsor marks the end of an era for the hotel, but also signals the beginning of an exciting new phase for both Goss and the hotel itself. As the hotel prepares for its £9.5 million transformation, it remains to be seen how the changes will affect its standing in the UK’s competitive hospitality industry. With new leadership in place, including the appointment of Shaun Bowles, The Castle Hotel Windsor is poised for continued success in the years to come. As for Goss, his next chapter promises to be just as impactful as his tenure at The Castle, making his move to The Runnymede on Thames an exciting development to watch in the UK hospitality sector.