Latest Updates

Emberwood is set to ignite the heart of the city later this year, bringing a modern British brasserie to Queens Square with an open kitchen, a charcoal-fired hearth and a love for locally sourced produce. Inspired by Bath’s architectural heritage, its name pays homage to John Wood Senior, but its vision is all about the now, celebrating seasonal ingredients, open fire cooking and the art of gathering over exceptional food.

Guiding this exciting new venture is a team of seasoned industry leaders. General Manager Shaun Bowles joins forces with acclaimed restaurateur Alex Ghalleb, of London institutions Julie’s and Dorian, to bring Emberwood to life. In the kitchen, Executive Head Chef David Hazell will craft ingredient-driven dishes that showcase Somerset’s rich agricultural landscape, while Sharky Patterson leads the restaurant with seamless hospitality and expertise.

The bar will feature a carefully curated cocktail and wine list, created in collaboration with Zoe Burgess from Atelier Pip, the mastermind behind The Cocktail Cabinet Taste.

Shaun perfectly captures our vision, “We want Emberwood to be a place where the community comes together, where Bath’s history, seasonal cooking and warm hospitality meet in one unforgettable dining experience.”

We cannot wait to welcome you soon.

The Francis Hotel is currently closed while our multimillion-pound refurbishment continues. While the restaurant will remain closed until spring, breakfast is on us.

We are reimagining every detail to bring you an even more luxurious and unforgettable experience.

Enjoy a complimentary breakfast in a cosy, dedicated breakfast space for all stays from 29th January to 30th April 2025. Simply book our room-only package and confirm your free breakfast at check-in.

We cannot wait to reopen our doors and welcome you back soon to discover the all-new Francis Hotel. Stay tuned for updates.

The new year will bring exciting changes at The Francis Hotel.

Our multimillion-pound refurbishment is now well underway, and we are delighted to share a preview of the remarkable transformation taking shape. From elegantly reimagined rooms to meticulous design details, the results so far are truly beautiful.

This is just the beginning, we look forward to unveiling even more in the coming months.

Stay tuned, the best is yet to come.

Here is a sneak peek of how our £13 million reimagination is taking shape behind our doors. We are so excited about what the future holds and how we will preserve one of Bath’s most historic buildings and continue to be a part of Bath’s beautiful legacy.  Stay tuned for exciting updates and further information.

We are delighted to introduce Chris Edwards as the new Sales Manager at The Francis Hotel. He joins us at an exciting time as we embark on a major refurbishment and reimagining of our iconic hotel. With extensive experience working with domestic and international leisure, corporate, and group clients, Chris brings a wealth of expertise, ensuring that every guest’s needs are met with the highest level of care and attention to detail. 

Chris is especially thrilled to be joining the vibrant community of Bath, a city he has long admired for its rich history, stunning architecture, and welcoming atmosphere. You might spot him running through the picturesque streets, catching a performance at the Bath Theatre, or exploring the city’s eclectic bar and restaurant scene, all while uncovering the hidden gems that make Bath so unique. 

As a proud ambassador for both The Francis Hotel and the city of Bath, Chris is eager to engage with guests and locals alike. Whether you are a visitor discovering the beauty of Bath or a local with a love for the city, Chris is always open for a chat. Feel free to reach out, he would love to grab a drink and share more about the exciting plans in store for the hotel. We are thrilled to have him on board as we look forward to an exciting new chapter for both the hotel and the wider Bath community! 

Our multi-million-pound investment into The Francis Hotel has been carefully planned. We are collaborating with some of the top experts in the hospitality sector to design timeless experiences for our guests and the local Bath community. For our exciting new modern British brasserie, we have partnered with Alex Ghalleb, Managing Director of Five Graces Hospitality Consultancy, who is leading the transformation. Alex’s deep passion for hospitality, rooted in his upbringing in Torquay and early experiences in the industry, makes him the perfect partner for this project. 

Alex has already had a fascinating career. He gained valuable skills in various venues, from fine dining to high-energy nightclubs, before taking a brief detour to study media. However, his love for hospitality drew him back, and he quickly rose through the ranks at Soho House to become their youngest General Manager at the time. His success continued at Grind, where he helped transform the brand into a dynamic, multi-site operation. 

Now, Alex is bringing his expertise and passion to The Francis Hotel. His vision for the restaurant blends tradition with innovation, reimagining the beloved memories locals have of The Francis Hotel while infusing fresh energy into the space. Alex’s approach is to create a welcoming environment that feels like a timeless institution for both locals and hotel guests. He is focused on cultivating an authentic experience, with special touches like an open charcoal hearth that adds a theatrical element, dynamism and warmth to the dining room. 

The Francis restaurant will be a vibrant, inviting space, with energy flowing seamlessly across the restaurant, bar, and lobby. Alex’s design and service approach will ensure that every guest will feel special and included. The focus is on sustainability, local produce, championing artisanal quality and celebrating the best that the southwest has to offer. 

The dining scene in Bath has been burgeoning over the last decade, and Alex is eager to contribute to this thriving community. With Bath’s large university scene, he is looking forward to welcoming the younger generation into the restaurant, providing them with work opportunities, and inspiring them through passionate, energetic restaurant and kitchen leadership. For Alex, creating a great restaurant is all about energy—it is what drives momentum, engagement, and the overall guest experience. His attention to detail in every aspect of the restaurant, from lighting and music to service flow, ensures that guests will enjoy an exceptional experience every time. 

At its core, Alex’s vision is about reconnecting The Francis Hotel with the Bath community, transforming the restaurant into a space that celebrates Bath’s heritage with subtle, meaningful touches throughout, from the carefully chosen artwork that reflects the city’s rich history to the local produce on the menu, every detail has been thoughtfully curated. The menu showcases top-quality local produce, ensuring that the flavours of Bath are front and centre, creating a dining experience that truly resonates with the local culture.  As Alex puts it, “We will know we have done a great job when our restaurant is full of locals, hotel guests, and even guests from other hotels, all enjoying the experience.” 

The story of The Francis Hotel is interwoven with the visionary architect John Wood Senior, whose innovative designs transformed Bath into a masterpiece of Georgian architecture. Among his many contributions, the creation of our hotel stands as a testament to his genius and personal connection to Bath.

The Birth of Queen Square

John Wood was born in Bath, a city with a rich Roman and medieval heritage. His profound appreciation for classical architecture and urban planning led him to envision a grand transformation for Bath. In 1728, he embarked on an ambitious project: the creation of Queen Square, a harmonious blend of Palladian elegance and urban functionality. This square was his first major project and laid the groundwork for Bath’s future architectural splendour.

A Personal Masterpiece

Nestled in Queen Square, the Francis Hotel was originally a series of seven private townhouses, designed and built by John Wood between 1728 and 1736. These townhouses epitomised Wood’s architectural philosophy, featuring symmetrical facades, classical details, and a sense of grandeur that would become his trademark.

In 1738, John Wood decided to reside in one of these townhouses. Living within the walls of what is now the Francis Hotel allowed Wood to not only enjoy the fruits of his labour but also to display his architectural vision to potential clients and benefactors.

Architectural Elegance and Social Hub

The Francis Hotel is a celebration of Georgian elegance. The facade has clean lines, sash windows, and decorative pilasters, all hallmarks of Palladian design. Inside, spacious rooms, high ceilings, and intricate plasterwork speak to the craftsmanship and attention to detail that defines Wood’s work.

Wood’s residence here was more than just a home, it was a centre of social activity. He hosted gatherings with prominent figures of the time, fostering a vibrant community of thinkers and influencers. This tradition of hospitality and cultural exchange continues today, as The Francis Hotel remains a beloved destination for visitors from around the world.

A Lasting Legacy

As we embark on the reimagination of The Francis Hotel, we are proud to honour John Wood Seniors influence through a passion for meticulous attention to detail. Our renovation will seamlessly blend historical charm with contemporary luxury, creating inviting spaces where hotel guests and locals can gather. Whether here to explore the city’s heritage, relax in our sumptuous surroundings, or enjoy the best hospitality, comfort, and warmth, we want you to not just witness our ongoing story but to be a part of our next exciting chapter.

Winner of multiple GIA (Glasgow Institutes of Architecture) awards for hotel projects such as the new Gleneagles Townhouse in Edinburgh and Dakota Glasgow, we are super excited to be working with 3D Reid as the interior designers to bring The Francis Hotel story to life.  With a very clear brief to reignite our Georgian heritage whilst appreciating the trends, comforts and needs of today’s business and leisure traveller, we cannot wait to unveil some of the incredible designs planned across our interior spaces.  Here we meet the team working on our project:

Scott Torrance – Director

Scott leads the 3DReid interiors team and works on a diverse range of interior projects and sectors, designing hotels, bars, restaurants, F & B operations and hospitality environments. Scott has extensive experience working collaboratively with clients throughout the UK and is responsible for all aspects of projects from brand creation to project delivery on site. He has a particular interest in historic buildings. Scott’s recent projects include The Cuillin Hills Hotel, The Address Hotel and the AC by Marriott Hotel. Past projects include Sheraton Grand Hotel & Spa, Hotel Indigo, Turnberry Hotel and Gleneagles.

Laura Anderson – Project Architect

Laura joined 3DReid in 2006 and is responsible for the day to day running of projects, production and co-ordination of architectural information liaising with client’s and contractors. Laura has extensive experience across all stages of design and in a variety of sectors most notably in hospitality. Laura has recently completed the Grade A listed luxury Gleneagles Townhouse Hotel in Edinburgh. Other projects include the prestigious Mullin Automotive Museum in Oxfordshire and Gleneagles in Perthshire.

Nicolle Cairney – Senior Interior Designer

Nicolle is a creative interior designer with experience in luxury hospitality, corporate and leisure sectors. Nicolle’s experience spans new build and conversion projects, as well as historic restorations. With responsibility for each stage of a project from concept and feasibility to construction and handover, Nicolle has extensive experience managing projects, developing brand identities, designing bespoke joinery and producing unique concepts to ultimately provide quality, innovative solutions that transform interior environments. Nicolle has recently been responsible for delivering the AC by Marriott Hotel and The Address Hotel, in Glasgow and has led the concept design for the Cuillin Hills Hotel. Her past projects include Custom House Hotel in Glasgow and the Charlemont Hotel in Dublin.

Step back in time and explore the rich Georgian history of The Francis Hotel, nestled in the heart of Bath. Occupying seven of the nine townhouses built between 1728 and 1736 on the south side of Queen Square, The Francis Hotel offers a unique glimpse into the elegance and charm of the Georgian era.

In the early 18th century, renowned architect John Wood the Elder set out to restore Bath to its former glory, developing an ambitious plan that would redefine the city’s image. Queen Square was designed to appear like a palace with wings and a forecourt, offering a grand view from the south side. Named in honour of Queen Caroline, wife of George II, Queen Square became a popular residence for Bath’s Georgian elite.

John Wood the Elder chose to live at No. 9 on the south side of Queen Square, which now serves as the entrance to The Francis Hotel. The nine townhouses on this side of the square remained individual dwellings until the late 19th century when local builder Solomon Francis established a boarding house at No. 10 in 1858. By 1884, his widow Emily had expanded the business into Nos. 6-9 and 11, and the seven Georgian townhouses were opened as The Francis Private Hotel.

The hotel has seen significant historical events, including the devastating Bath Blitz during World War II. In April 1942, a 500-kilogram bomb destroyed part of the hotel’s frontage. The hotel was rebuilt in the early 1950s and continued to welcome notable guests, including The Beatles in 1963!

Today, The Francis Hotel stands as a testament to Bath’s rich history, and we are excited to be starting our upcoming refurbishment. Our goal is to keep the Georgian wow factor while incorporating today’s technology, luxurious amenities, and excellent service. We aim to make The Francis a destination for both locals and hotel guests. The transformation will encompass not only the guestrooms but also the introduction of a spa and snug, as well as an exciting destination bar and restaurant.

We cannot wait to take you on our reimagined journey and welcome you to our reincarnation of The Francis Hotel.

Sutton Hotel Collection today announces a £13 million refurbishment project at The Francis Hotel Bath. The renovation, which is due to begin in July, will include a full revamp to all 98 bedrooms and suites, a reconfiguration of the hotel’s lobby, the unveiling of a brand-new restaurant, as well as the addition of a dedicated spa and snug.

As one of the first Georgian buildings to be built in Bath, The Francis Hotel was once home to 18th century architect John Wood the Elder who was the inspiration behind the first Georgian stone buildings of Queen Square, the Royal Crescent and The Circus. The hotel has been a huge part of Bath’s history ever since. Working with award-winning interior designers 3DReid, the design concept planned for the hotel and all 98 bedrooms will take inspiration from the Georgian era whilst appreciating all the modern amenities and touches that today’s traveller expects.

Alongside a reinvention of the hotel’s 98 bedrooms and suites, the refurbishment will include a complete reimagining of the ground floor and lobby including the introduction of a snug. The snug will be open to the general public during the day and will be an intimate space for hotel residents to relax over a pre or post-dinner drink of an evening.

The project will also see the introduction of a new destination-restaurant, The Townhouse Brasserie which will showcase the finest British cuisine. The Townhouse Brasserie will focus heavily on seasonal and locally grown produce cooked over an open hearth in front of guests. Open seven days a week, the restaurant will combine traditional English classic flavours whilst playfully and effortlessly bringing a chic aesthetic, exquisite wine-list and memorable dining experience to new levels of timeless creativity and vibrancy.

Towards the end of the programme, a brand new thermal spa and three treatment rooms will be created tapping into Bath’s ambition to be the UK’s number one city for wellbeing in the UK.

“We are thrilled to be announcing the upcoming £13 million renovation of The Francis Hotel. This transformation will not only create an even more compelling hotel stay for domestic guests, but also drive even greater interest from more international leisure and business tourists who are visiting Bath.” William Gibbs, Hotel Director of Sutton Hotel Collection.

“Our vision is to create something incredibly special in the heart of Bath that offers truly personalised and curated experiences to guests. A place where guests can be their best selves and our team can be proud to offer a unique and enhanced service. Our location is already one of the best in the city, combine that with our fascinating history and compelling refurbishment and we will be one of the most sought after places to stay in Bath.” Shaun Bowles, Cluster General Manager of The Francis Hotel, Bath.

The Townhouse Brasserie will be a much sought after and new dining concept in the heart of Bath. A modern British brasserie that captures the best of Britain, cultivating the best ingredients cooked authentically and served with British charm in a timelessly modern vintage setting. The Townhouse Brasserie will focus heavily on seasonal and locally grown produce cooked over an open hearth in front of guests.

Open seven days a week, the restaurant will combine traditional English classic flavours whilst playfully and effortlessly bringing a chic aesthetic, exquisite wine-list and memorable dining experience to new levels of timeless creativity and vibrancy.

More information to follow.

To partner with Bath’s ambition to be the UK’s number one city for wellbeing in the UK, a brand new thermal spa with state-of-the art and exclusive facilities along with three treatment rooms will be created. Guests will be able to relax and unwind in the multi-use thermal room followed by a bespoke treatment.