Latest Updates

Sustainably Made in the South West

GAIA Skincare is made right here in the South West of Britain. It is vegan, cruelty free and comes in simple, recyclable packaging. When you use these products during your stay, you are supporting local makers and a cleaner environment. These are values we share and know matter to you too.

Wellness Woven Through Your Stay

You will find GAIA products in your room and soon in our brand new spa. Each scent, texture and ingredient is chosen carefully to help you unwind and feel refreshed.

Sarah Morris, our Spa Manager, has worked closely with GAIA and our team to craft a spa experience that is easy and welcoming. It is a quiet invitation to slow down, take a breath and enjoy moments of calm.

Your Journey with Us

From the moment you arrive at the Francis Hotel, everything is arranged to make you feel looked after. GAIA’s skincare and our soon to be revealed brand new spa treatments are part of a stay designed around your comfort. Guests staying for a quick getaway or a longer visit will find plenty of chances to relax and soak up the calm of the South West.

We cannot wait to welcome you to the spa when it opens later this year. For now, settle in, relax and enjoy GAIA in your room.

As we head into the next phase of The Francis Hotel reimagined, our team focus on the guest experience and journey, starting from the check-in to each of our 98 bedrooms are almost at the end of the transformation. With bold modern colours to welcome guests the moment they step inside, while beautiful wood-panelled walls frame the floral decor and hints of print, with comfortable chairs and cushions carefully thought to create perfect spots to curl up with a good book. 

We’ve carefully selected custom-made furniture that gives a gentle nod to our Georgian heritage while ensuring guests have all the modern comforts they could wish for. And for a good night’s sleep, that every guest deserves. Our Hypnos mattresses and pillows promise the perfect night’s sleep after a day exploring beautiful Bath. 

The artwork throughout tells stories about the fascinating people who once called these historic townhouses home.  Every corner is designed to be a personal sanctuary, wrapped in plush fabrics that make guests feel pampered and taken on a tour of our hotel history in our interiors. 

A Welcome That Warms the Heart 

Our wonderful Guest Experience Manager, Guillermo Martin, puts it so perfectly: “It’s often the smallest details that leave the biggest impression. Thoughtfully curated welcome gifts are more than just a gesture, they’re the first chapter of a memorable stay. From handpicked treats to personal touches that reflect the spirit of our hospitality, every element is designed to make guests feel truly special from the moment they arrive. Because in the end, it’s not just about service. It’s about connection.”

Setting the example this weekend with a fully occupied hotel for Robbie Williams, Bath Spa and University of Bath Open Days, along with multiple other activities going on in the City of Bath. Our team left sweet-treats for our VIP guests, a small taster of Emberwood as a welcome and hospitality. 

Modern Comforts with a Personal Touch 

While we treasure our history, our luxury modern touches are another moment for our guests’ stay to feel just right. Want to set the perfect mood? Pop on your favourite tunes with the lovely Roberts radio in your room. Fancy catching up on your latest Netflix obsession? Cast it straight to your smart TV and settle in with a cup of freshly brewed coffee and proper fresh milk because the little things do matter. 

These aren’t just nice-to-haves, they’re our way of making sure you feel completely at home while discovering the magic of Bath. 

This heartfelt approach touches everything we do at The Francis Hotel as we reposition ourselves in the city. With little quirks and fascinating stories scattered throughout the property, they aren’t just decoration, they’re conversation starters, memory makers, and the kind of special touches that make you feel like you’ve discovered something truly memorable. 

Our guest journey is a carefully crafted story where every detail has been considered, every comfort provided, and every moment designed to create lasting memories. This is hospitality elevated to an art form, where the smallest details truly do leave the biggest impression. 

Confidence in Every Thread 

At Francis Hotel Bath, a sense of welcome begins the moment a guest approaches. Even before a word is exchanged, there’s a quiet ease in how our team presents themselves, relaxed yet attentive, professional without being stiff. Our newly reimagined uniforms reflect that spirit. More than a nod to tradition, they’re designed to help every team member feel confident, comfortable, and completely themselves. 

Wearing the Role with Ease 

Whether it’s the tailored three-piece suits worn by our doormen, Alex and Jerry, or the crisp green polos of our housekeeping team, each garment has been chosen with intention. Designed to move with ease and to feel as good as they look, these uniforms support the rhythm of daily service, seamlessly blending style with practicality. 

We’ve focused on what feels right, not just what appears polished. Because real hospitality isn’t about performance. It’s about people. When our team feels grounded and at ease, that sense of connection naturally extends to every guest they welcome. 

Pride in the Detail 

Every uniform carries thoughtful touches that speak to who we are, symbols of shared standards, high expectations, and a genuine care for how we present ourselves. For our team, getting dressed each day is more than preparation; it’s an act of pride and a small but significant reminder of the part they play in creating guest experiences and lasting memories. 

In Emberwood, our chefs wear the match emblem on the chest of their aprons. Our waiters wear it stitched on the sleeve. A subtle spark, inspired by the fire of our open hearth, and a respectful nod to the match manufacturing company that once stood at No. 5 Queen Square in 1925. 

Even our new Francis Hotel logo carries meaning, echoing the Bath stone street name carvings etched into the corners of Bath’s Georgian buildings. It’s a tribute to craftsmanship, place, and our city’s beauty. 

More Than Fabric 

These uniforms are not just about appearance. They are a physical expression of our values, welcoming, connected, thoughtful, and proper in the best possible way. Designed to support, not constrain, they help our team feel at home in their roles, free to bring their best selves to every guest interaction.  

We reignited Queen Square last night with our launch party at Emberwood.

Beginning with Executive Head Chef Dave Hazell at our open hearth. Guests gathered around, as he served cote boeuf straight from the flames and dishes that perfectly captured our concept in a moment of canapes. 

We opened our doors to beloved locals, London journalists, influencers, and neighbouring businesses. All brought together to celebrate this exciting new chapter in our Francis Hotel story. 

The bar team showcased our martini trolley with theatrical flair to those who sipped and had guests reaching for their cameras. Meanwhile, the magnificent magnum bottles gifted from 100 Hills provided the perfect welcome toast to our new beginnings and a celebration of our wine list curated by Clair Vins.  

As we settled in for the evening, our thoughtfully designed interiors glowed warmly, filled with the ambience from the live band. Dom, our extraordinary Patisserie Chef, presented the evening’s finale, the dessert trolley laden with petit fours that had even the most sophisticated palates enchanted. 

No guest departed empty-handed, with each receiving our signature rhubarb macarons, a souvenir of celebrating.  

As we unveil our reimagined approach to dining, we perfectly embody the Francis Hotel’s vision: warm, attentive service firmly rooted in the present moment while honouring our storied past. In an age of fleeting dining trends, we provide something more substantial, a much-appreciated return to the fundamentals of hospitality, elevated through careful attention to detail. 

Always ready with a warm welcome, we’re not just a restaurant; we’re the newest expression of the Francis Hotel experience where every meal becomes a memory, and every visit tells a story. 

You walk along Queen Square, and as you pass the Francis Hotel you’ll be greeted by Alex and Jerry, our extraordinary doormen whose warm smiles have become as iconic as our historic façade.

Born and raised in our city, these gentlemen bring authentic local knowledge and genuine hospitality to every guest interaction. Their deep connection to our community, and being Bathonian’s, makes them a treasure for visitors seeking a memorable experience in the city, living like true locals.

Alex’s funny anecdotes and Jerry’s personalised top 5 recommendations of walks, pubs and places to eat have become a new tradition in our brand story. Whether it’s carrying your luggage, hailing a taxi, or sharing the perfect off-the-beaten-path café, they anticipate needs before they’re even expressed.

As The Francis Hotel unveils its reimagined approach to hospitality, Alex and Jerry perfectly embody our vision, warm, attentive service that remains firmly rooted in the present moment. In an age of digital convenience, these remarkable men provide a much-appreciated human connection and a friendly ‘hello’. Always ready with a warm welcome or fond farewell, Alex and Jerry aren’t just doormen, they’re the living spirit of the Francis Hotel experience.

That warm, woody scent from the hearth. Smoke, spice, maybe a whisper of rosemary. It feels like arriving somewhere you already know.

We’ve kept the menu simple, but everything’s been thought through.

There’s beef shin pie with cavolo nero and stout. Cornish hake with fennel and samphire. Bavette with green chilli and fries that demand fingers. Scallops roasted in their shells. Carrots that taste of flame. A proper parfait. Croquettes with punch.

What’s for pudding?

Maybe the chocolate mousse with cocoa nib brownie and tarragon ice cream. Or rhubarb with custard and white chocolate. Perhaps the tarte tatin, still warm, with a scoop that melts.

A trolley rolls by with cheesecake, charlotte cake, and yuzu choux bun. It doesn’t wait to be chosen. It comes to you.

Something to sip?

The drinks deserve a mention. A martini trolley rolls to your table. Cocktails are stirred, not shown off. There are low and no drinks, with just as much care behind them. The wine list offers favourites and quiet surprises.

Come for dinner. Stay for drinks. Stay for more than one pudding. No judgement here.

The fire’s lit, and your table’s waiting.

The Francis Hotel is undergoing a transformation, and you’ll notice it in the details. The first of our reimagined rooms are now revealed. With each thoughtfully updated space, we’ve aimed to create calm, elegance, and comfort.

Award-winning studio 3D Reid, known for their work on Gleneagles Townhouse and Cameron House, is leading the redesign. The focus is on blending the building’s Georgian heritage with modern comforts. Every room in the hotel is being updated, preserving what makes the hotel special while enhancing the overall experience.

Throughout your stay, you’ll discover key touchpoints, from room amenities to our team enhancing your journey. We’ll share personal favourites around Bath, along with insights into the owners of the townhouses that make up The Francis Hotel, with each detail unveiled in a unique, one-of-a-kind way.

The redesign combines classic elegance with modern luxury, featuring high-tech amenities and a thoughtful focus on wellness. From a restful night’s sleep to nourishing meals at Emberwood, and rejuvenation in our spa, the final phase of our multi-million-pound project, we’ve crafted an experience designed for complete relaxation.

We’re creating Bath’s most welcoming townhouse destination, a luxurious city escape where guests enjoy proper comfort and the warmth of a distinguished home.

This preview is just a glimpse of what is to come, a glimpse of what a stay at The Francis Hotel can feel like. With more exciting updates on the way, we’ll continue to share our next chapter, breathing new life into this beloved hotel’s rich history.

EMBERWOOD WELCOMES A CULINARY DREAM TEAM AHEAD OF MAY OPENING

Opening on the 1^st of May, Emberwood proudly announces David Hazell as Executive Head Chef and Sharky Patterson as Restaurant General Manager.

At Emberwood’s heart lies an open kitchen with a charcoal-fired hearth, where guests will witness the art of cooking with exceptional local ingredients. The seasonal menu showcases the best of Somerset and the South West – featuring heritage-bred meats from Lower Westcombe Farm, a nod to the south coast with fresh Cornish seafood from Wings of St. Mawes, and artisanal dairy products from Wyke Farm. This commitment to sustainability and provenance reflects the brasserie’s dedication to celebrating our region’s agricultural heritage.

David brings impressive credentials, having refined his craft at Bristol’s Clifton Lido and the Michelin-starred Paco Tapas, where he helped secure its prestigious accolade shortly after joining. His cooking philosophy centres on seasonality, bold flavours, and the elemental power of fire.

“I am thrilled to have joined Emberwood and I look forward to bringing a new menu to Bath. The dishes are a celebration of the local area, and we hope to become a must-visit for locals in the heart of the city.  My approach is all about simply enhancing the natural flavours of top-quality ingredients. Cooking over fire adds a unique depth and elevated flavour profile, and we are embracing this at Emberwood to create something truly special.”

Sharky Patterson completes the leadership team, bringing rich experience from prestigious establishments across the UK and France. His talent for opening distinctive venues, building cohesive teams, and creating memorable guest experiences promises to make Emberwood a standout destination in Bath’s thriving culinary scene.

“It is so exciting to be part of creating such a passionate and motivated team.  I am looking forward to bringing a new dining experience to the already thriving scene in Bath. Emberwood takes inspiration from Bath’s fascinating history and local surroundings, whilst, at the same time, bringing a fresh approach to a modern brasserie with an open hearth at its core.

We can’t wait to open the doors this spring and offer exceptional cocktails, wine and a menu which tempts a return visit.”

For the full press release and updates on our opening or to book a table for the 1^st of May, visit emberwoodbath.com

Emberwood will make its debut as one of Bath’s most anticipated restaurant openings set to ignite the city’s dining scene with open-fire cooking and a meticulously crafted seasonal menu. Earlier this year, Bath was named one of the world’s top culinary destinations by the Michelin Guide, setting the stage for an extraordinary year across the city’s food and arts scene. With preparations in full swing for the 250th anniversary of the city’s most celebrated daughter, Jane Austen, Bath is poised to shine on both the cultural and culinary map as never before.

David Hazell, formerly of Michelin-starred Paco Tapas and Bristol’s Clifton Lido, takes the role of Executive Head Chef, bringing his signature ingredient-led style to Emberwood. David’s menu will celebrate the rich agricultural bounty of Somerset and the South West. Starters will include burnt aubergine with goat’s curd, confit tomatoes, green beans, as well as crispy Porthilly oysters with Somerset lardo and spiced ketchup.

Mains further reflect David’s commitment to sourcing the finest local produce including West Country bavette with anchovy butter, green chilli, while vegetarian options include charred courgette and wild garlic cacio e pepe and chargrilled heritage carrots, crispy polenta, burnt baby gem and pumpkin seed pesto.

Adding the all-important final note, classic British desserts have been given a fresh modern twist. Highlights include Miso custard tart with vanilla pod ice cream and Chocolate mousse with coca nib brownie, raspberry and tarragon ice cream.

Complimenting the menu is an inspired cocktail list crafted by Zoe Burgess, the celebrated author of The Cocktail Cabinet and director of Atelier Pip. Guests can expect signature serves that reflect the surrounding countryside and the art of British mixology. Highlights include Solomon’s Spritz – a crisp blend of Somerset cider brandy, Pomona, Vault Champagne and Oyster vermouth, and Hundred Hills Sparkling Wine, while the Emberwood Negroni offers a sophisticated twist with London Dry Gin, Vault Bitter, Sweet Vermouth, and a black cardamom and saffron tincture.

At the helm of Emberwood are some of the most respected names in hospitality, ensuring the brasserie reflects the city’s rich heritage while offering a modern, vibrant experience. The launch is being overseen by leading consultancy Five Graces Hospitality, whose recent projects include celebrated London destinations such as Julie’s in Holland Park and Dorian in Notting Hill.

With its enviable location in the heart of the city and a team of industry leaders behind it, Emberwood is poised to become a must-visit UK dining destination, perfectly complimenting Bath’s upcoming year of cultural and culinary celebrations.

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.