The new 194-bedroom Crowne Plaza Resort Colchester - Five Lakes, which is the first UK resort to open under the Crowne Plaza brand, has opened to guests for the first time.

Owned by AB Hotels and managed by BDL Management as part of Intercontinental Hotels Group (IHG), the new property boasts a swimming pool; a gym; and an on-site spa.

ESPA, Clarins and Jessica Nails supply the resort's spa, which includes 12 treatment rooms and a relaxation room, while a sauna, a steamroom and a spa bath are also available.

Other facilities at the resort include two 18-hole golf courses, three practice putting courses and a floodlit eight-bay driving range, as well as two restaurants and a cocktail bar.

Ben Danielsen, the property's general manager, said: "It is extremely important for us to look at what will make a stay here special for our guests.

"We find that professionals who attend meetings here really appreciate being able to do business and also take advantage of the resort facilities."

Graham Norris, divisional director for BDL Management, added: "The Crowne Plaza brand is incredibly strong which is why we wanted to partner with IHG to open the first Crowne Plaza resort in the UK."