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.

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.