Francis Hotel Bath opens as member of the MGallery collection

A sanctuary for the discerning traveller, exuding a homely atmosphere, unique character and Regency-inspired eclectic elegance.

Francis Hotel Bath, the newest member of the MGallery collection of unique hotels, officially opens on 24 May following a spectacular £6 million investment which has seen a renaissance of the iconic city landmark and its transformation into one of the UK’s best high-end, memorable hotels.

Located in the heart of Bath on Queen Square, Francis Hotel effortlessly combines 21st century elegance with the splendour of the Regency era, capturing the spirit of the period with its distinctive design and personality.

In total, the hotel features 98 individually-styled bedrooms, a sumptuous lounge and bar, as well as a snug, front parlour and breakfast room. A number of the bedrooms have four-poster beds and glorious views over the fashionable city of Bath, with elegant Regency furnishings and artwork designed specifically for the hotel.

The interior design and décor of the hotel offers eclectic elegance in a Regency townhouse setting. The colours are vivid and vibrant, reflecting the boldness of the period - ultramarine blue walls with bold geometric floor tiling and gold lighting. Elsewhere, the theme is celebrated throughout, with peacock patterned fabrics and wallpaper, gilt-framed mirrors, beaded panelling and bespoke table lamps and lampshades.

Francis Hotel will also offer its own take on the quintessentially British tradition of afternoon tea, in the elegant setting of its Regency-style lounge. The exclusive late afternoon treat boasts an impressive selection of delectable sandwiches, freshly-baked cakes and locally sourced ingredients.

The Bar area offers both guests and visitors an opportunity to sample classic and signature cocktails and the hotel’s unique champagne.

The extensive refurbishment has been sympathetically planned to ensure the hotel – originally seven of Bath’s most prestigious houses combined to create The Francis hotel in 1894 – retains its unique history whilst creating a new luxurious, contemporary feel.

The boundaries of the original houses are evident by the use of different colour, and blue plaques add to the hotel story, explaining who was in residence at specific dates. They include celebrated architect John Wood the Elder, who lived at number 9 and designed the famous square.

Karen Bassett, Francis Hotel Manager, said: “When John Wood the Elder developed his grand vision for Bath’s Queen Square, the south side comprised nine private townhouses, united by a single façade. Seven of these survive - seamlessly interconnected to form the new restored Francis Hotel Bath. Today, we are delighted that the Francis, an iconic local landmark, is entering an exciting new era. Whilst celebrating the vivaciousness of the Regency period, the £6 million restoration has transformed the hotel in terms of style, comfort and service, and will put her back on the map for local, national and international guests.”

Don Foster, MP for Bath, added: “The Francis Hotel is an important part of Bath’s heritage and a prime example of John Wood the Elder’s magnificent architectural influence on the city. I am delighted to have been invited to officially mark the re-opening of the Francis and to commemorate its transformation into a unique hotel that Bath can be proud of. The commitment of £6 million in the hotel’s refurbishment is a notable local investment story and the fact that Bath is the first city outside of London to offer an exclusive MGallery hotel is a reflection of the city’s standing as one of the UK’s most treasured tourism destinations.”

The hotel’s transformation into Bath’s unique Regency townhouse hotel has also coincided with the anticipated launch of Brasserie Blanc, an exciting new dining experience for both guests and the general public.

The Francis Hotel Bath’s interiors have been designed by architectural and design firm Househam Henderson.