Travelodge Says ‘Free Palestine’ Greeting on TV Screen Was Antisemitic

Travelodge has apologised after a welcome greeting reading “Free Palestine” was displayed on the TV of a hotel room.

A Jewish guest checked in to Travelodge Manor House in north London on 3 June to find the pro-Palestine message displayed on his TV screen. The guest also alleged that a member of staff had behaved in a hostile way towards him.

Travelodge launched an investigation into the incident, but has been unable to find out who inputted the message or establish if it was displayed for previous occupants of the room.

The hotel chain initially described the message itself as “antisemitic”, and is now planning on rolling out antisemitism training for its staff in response.

A spokesperson told the BBC: “We are now very close to concluding a robust internal investigation, but unfortunately it has not been possible to determine exactly how or when the message was put on this individual TV.

“However, our internal focus on our policy of zero tolerance to discrimination including antisemitism will continue and we are currently in discussions with a leading organisation in the Jewish community to facilitate an appropriate training programme on cultural sensitivity and antisemitism.”

While support for Israel is high amongst the UK’s Jewish population, there is also significant criticism of Israel and support for Palestine – particularly among younger British Jews.

According to a 2025 report from the Institute for Jewish Policy Research, 40% of adult British Jews say Israel’s actions in Gaza have weakened their attachment to the state, 51% say this conduct clashes with their Jewish values, and 24% of 20 to 29-year-olds identify as anti-Zionist.