In a special series testing whether luxury experiences justify their price tag, our travel correspondent was invited to review a unique hotel package that lets you sleep where England's football stars prepare. Following a stay in a lavish London suite, the next stop was the Hilton at St George's Park, the Football Association's National Football Centre.
The Ultimate Football Getaway
Priced at £650 per night for up to two adults and two children, the 'Stay Like The England Teams' package is designed as the ultimate treat for superfans. The experience includes a private cinema, exclusive behind-the-scenes tours, a one-on-one training session with an FA coach, and a wealth of custom memorabilia to take home. For a lifelong supporter, the chance to walk the same halls as Harry Kane and the Lionesses was an opportunity too good to miss.
The hotel is situated near the National Forest, roughly six miles west of Burton upon Trent. It's accessible by a three-hour drive from London or a 90-minute train journey, with one-way rail fares starting from £18. The location also places guests within easy reach of Alton Towers for an optional day trip.
From VIP Arrival to 'Suite Caroline'
From the 1pm check-in, the service was exceptional. Staff were warm and attentive, immediately whisking luggage away and transporting guests via a custom England-themed golf buggy to a private VIP building. The entry is through the same secluded tunnel and lift used by the national squads, leading to a mini-lobby adorned with team branding.
A standout moment was signing a mock England contract at a press-conference desk, complete with a commemorative Polaroid. The accommodation, aptly named 'Suite Caroline', is a spacious and modern haven filled with football nostalgia. Knowing Gareth Southgate once stayed there added a genuine thrill.
The room features changing-room-style benches, signed shirts from legends like Alex Scott and Ian Wright, and is stocked with official merchandise to keep, including a shirt, football, and Hilton robes. The real showstopper, however, is the private, football dugout-style cinema with heated seats, blankets, England coach jackets, and a PS5.
Training, Tours and Fine Dining
The package's core experiences are what set it apart. The private training session on the same pitches as the England squad, led by an FA-certified coach, felt surreal and was expertly tailored, even accommodating a recovering Achilles injury. This was followed by an insightful behind-the-scenes tour of the National Football Centre, offering access to the indoor 3G pitch, treatment rooms, and tactics areas.
Dining at the hotel restaurant was another highlight. Guests enjoy a bespoke three-course menu at a private table. The reviewer particularly praised the tuna tataki, beef fillet, and the 'Final Whistle' chocolate fondant. While alcohol isn't included, soft drink pairings were excellent, and staff offered complimentary red wine. Breakfast was declared the best hotel breakfast ever had, featuring the same performance-focused options the players eat, from smoothies to custom egg dishes.
The Verdict: Worth Every Penny
So, is the 'Stay Like The England Teams' package worth £650? The resounding conclusion is yes, for the right guest. This isn't just a hotel room; it's exclusive access and a series of unforgettable experiences. It successfully blends football-centric excitement with genuine luxury and relaxation.
The staff were pivotal in making every interaction feel personal and special. While undeniably a bucket-list treat and not a cheap night away, the value for a devoted fan is unquestionable. The package offers availability on limited dates until 4 January 2026.
