Monopoly Madness | Navigating the Ultimate Hotel Competition at Balmer Lawn Hotel
Roll the dice, and explore our ultimate hotel competition!
From touching traditions to strategic game playing (some might argue cheating), we’ve had an abundance of entries for our recent ‘Monopoly Moments’ competition.
Whether you’re a secret cash hoarder, or a jailbreaking extraordinaire, we’re delving into the chaos caused by this much-loved game:
Launch of New Forest Monopoly
As a cultural icon, Monopoly has been a staple in the family home for years.
From 12-hour stale mates, cunning bankers and ruthless property sharks, Monopoly is a timeless game for all.
In April this year, Monopoly released a New Forest edition of their infamous game, which features our own Balmer Lawn Hotel space!
To mark our newfound place on the recently published board, we organised a thrilling ‘Monopoly Moments’ launch day, graced by none other than Mr. Monopoly himself!
This exciting addition to the Monopoly universe showcases not just our cherished Balmer Lawn Hotel, but also other iconic landscapes within the New Forest region.
You can begin the game by battling it out with other contestants for the newest token in the lineup, as the New Forest Pony makes its debut. Move over, top hat!
Introducing Our Exclusive Hotel Competition
Following the launch, we opened a hotel competition in which we invited people to reminisce and share their most memorable Monopoly moments.
With the chance to win one of two prizes, we were inundated with tales from all over the UK.
Our hotel competition has now closed, and our Balmer Lawn judges have the task of choosing the winners.
The first place prize is a lavish Bed and Breakfast retreat for two, allowing the winner to explore the New Forest region and immerse themselves in its breathtaking scenery.
The second place prize is a delectable afternoon tea experience for two, where the winner can indulge in exquisite finger sandwiches and delicious sweet treats, while enjoying a game of Monopoly.
Hilarious Hotel Competition Submissions
With a multitude of amusing, strategic, and heartwarming entries, our judges are now tasked with the challenge of selecting the finest tale!
Brian Reeve shared his tale of meeting his new girlfriend’s parents, in which an after-dinner game of Monopoly left a chilled atmosphere.
After being advised to purchase Whitechapel, Brian exclaimed “Who would ever want to reside in Whitechapel?”. As he was met with stunned silence, it was revealed the parents had lived in Whitechapel for three decades!
The fiercely competitive nature of Monopoly is notorious for sparking familial rivalries as Amanda Jallands showed. After a game with their victorious 80-year-old grandmother, Amanda’s children stated: “Why can’t nanny fall asleep in front of the TV like most old people? She’s exhausting!”
Dominique also shared her touching tale, expressing that Monopoly symbolises family time in her home. As a staple in her childhood Christmas day festivities, with hours spent playing whilst divulging in a tub of Quality Streets, Dominique has since carried on this loving tradition with her own children.
Tantrums, Tricks and Treachery
From currency conundrums to tantrums and abrupt endings, Monopoly builds memories to last a lifetime.
On one occasion, Jo McMeekin’s daughter tried to use Monopoly notes at the local shop to buy some chocolate; luckily, the shopkeeper went along with her playful act.
Ann, on the other hand, was left red-faced as she went to pay for her weekly shop, only to find her son had changed all the money in her purse for Monopoly cash! Unfortunately, the cashier wasn’t willing to accept Monopoly money as payment!
Monopoly can bring out some creative approaches, as Karen Roger explains. Taking the game to a new level, Karen swallowed hotels on Mayfair and Park Lane in a bid to avoid paying the fines!
With emotions running high, Mary Dempsey brought Monopoly to a permanent end in her family. At 8 months pregnant, she threw the board in the air, packed her bags, and phoned her mum to collect her, as her husband had brought Mayfair whilst she had Park Lane!
Let’s Talk Strategy
Our exhilarating hotel competition saw an array of submissions, showing that the strategy of this iconic game extends beyond the board. With wild card fanatics and gruelling landlords, rule bending seemed to be a common theme throughout entries.
Emma Day’s father’s deception was revealed as notes slipped from his jumper when he headed to answer the front door, whilst Linda Randall’s money-savvy approach saw her acquiring a second Monopoly board from a carboot sale to bolster her in-game fund.
These witty stories had our staff laughing — while also nodding in agreement at some of the unconventional tactics used. What’s a game of monopoly without a healthy dose of competition?
Winner of Our Hotel Competition
The winners of our hotel competition will be announced on the 21st August, crowning our favourite Monopoly moments.
Our General Manager, Michael Clitheroe, expressed his enthusiasm with our hunt for the best memories.
He said: “Our quest for the best ‘Monopoly Moments’ revealed so many heartfelt, and often hilarious, stories, revealing that Monopoly is not just a board game, but something that allows us to build bonds with our loved ones and kindle treasured memories.
“Each entry paints a familiar picture of families strategising, joking, and relishing in each other's company, encapsulating the essence of what makes the Monopoly experience truly unforgettable.
“As we plan to unveil the winners next week, we eagerly await hosting them, celebrating the spirit of the board game marked by laughter, connection, and cherished memories''.
Staying at Balmer Lawn
Set in the heart of the New Forest, with stunning scenery surrounding our hotel, it’s the perfect place to enjoy a weekend away — and a game or two of Monopoly. Why not book a break and come and experience it for yourself?
Contact a member of our team today to plan your perfect stay.
Alternatively, check out our recent blog on our involvement in the Hampshire Food Festival.
