The Francis Hotel is undergoing a multi-million pound investment to transform the hotel and build a team to deliver an unparalleled sojourn. The Francis Hotel plays a huge part in Bath’s history. The original building was the inspiration of local freemason John Wood the Elder. It was built on Queen Square – the first Georgian square created in Bath. John lived at No. 9 Queen Square which is now the front door to The Francis Hotel and he went on to create the vision for the world-famous Circus before his son (John Wood the Younger) took his father’s inspiration and created the Royal Crescent. We are a long lasting part of Bath’s history and a play a pivotal part in the city. Our investment will touch every part of the hotel with opulent design, personalised service and curated experiences for our guests. It will be a place where we will celebrate Bath’s heritage and continue Bath’s beautiful legacy. We want you to feel your best self and will be one of the most sought-after hotels to stay in Bath.
THE FRANCIS HOTEL IS ONE OF THE FINEST AND FIRST EXAMPLES OF GEORGIAN ARCHITECTURE IN BATH AND HOLDS A VERY SPECIAL PLACE IN THE HEARTS OF THE LOCAL COMMUNITY
Our plans
Join us on our exciting journey as the much-loved Francis Hotel undergoes a magnificent transformation. Experience 98 new-look bedrooms, a gourmet restaurant serving the tastiest cuisine, a cosy snug, and a stylish bar which will become Bath’s hottest spot. Unwind on the stylish outdoor terrace with a drink in hand and indulge in the cutting-edge spa. We look forward to welcoming you.

Terrace Dining at Emberwood

Welcoming GAIA Skincare to The Francis Hotel
Reimagining Our Guest Experience

Terrace Dining at Emberwood
After months of planning and preparation, the Emberwood terrace has opened, perfectly timed with the summer heat wave. Marking another exciting milestone in our multi-million pound reimagined project at Francis Hotel, in the city of Bath.
The terrace has been transformed into something visually beautiful. We’ve achieved that elusive, rich, alfresco feeling. Sitting on the edge of Barton Street and Queen Square, the terrace catches the golden Bath stone just right. With plush embroidered ‘Emberwood’ cushions that invite you to settle in for hours. The design strikes the perfect balance between luxury and comfort. Our eye-catching spot for tourists and for Bath locals to feel completely at home.
Open from midday until almost midnight, the menus give the option to spend the day people-watching. Served with charcuterie boards or light lunch, through to a late evening of cocktails and snacks. The terrace reflects Emberwood concept of brasserie. A glass of wine and nibbles or glimpse over our full menu and make a proper afternoon with something heartier from the hearth.
Bath is the ideal base for discovering the food region of the Somerset and beyond, from the charming market towns of Bruton and Frome to the coastlines of Cornwall. Our outdoor dining provides the perfect respite between adventures, and has nod of the variety of the region across our menu. From Cornish scallops to Wyke Farm cheeses, all changing with the seasons.
The terrace bar in Bath has become more than just an extension of Emberwood, it’s established itself as the premier outdoor dining destination in Bath Somerset. The perfect spot for alfresco dining in the historic city.
Our position in the heart of Bath makes us the perfect local place. We look forward to welcoming guests from across the South West and beyond, from London day-trippers to Cornwall-bound travellers seeking the chicest outdoor terrace in the city.

Welcoming GAIA Skincare to The Francis Hotel
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.
Reimagining Our Guest Experience
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.