Just wanted to let you know that I had a reply from Best Western about the Churchill and here's the reply.
Dear Mr Walkden
Thank you for contacting Best Western in regards to your question. The simple answer is no, Best Western is not a Franchise.
Best Western is a Membership organisation where Hotels become members and in return benefit from the possibilities of a major worldwide brand (like a franchise but without the costs)
Best Western gives performance of a franchise with the values of a consortium
Kind regards
Wolfgang Gold
Development Manager
Best Western Hotels GB
Website:
www.bestwestern.co.uk
Best Western is the largest group of independently owned and managed hotels in GB
So there you have it - it isn't a Franchise.
Roger