This November, the iconic Francis Hotel will unveil its completed bedrooms following a £14 million reimagination led by acclaimed design practice 3DReid. The extensive transformation has refreshed every corner of the hotel, combining contemporary design with subtle references to Bath’s rich heritage and vibrant present.
Located on Queen Square, Bath’s first Georgian Square, the Francis Hotel’s refurbishment encompasses all 98 guest rooms, corridors, and public spaces, marking a new chapter in the hotel’s storied history. Originally a row of Georgian townhouses and the home of celebrated architect and visionary John Wood the Elder, who designed the building, the original townhouses later became a hotel in 1884 when entrepreneur Emily Francis extended it across seven adjoining houses that now make up the Francis Hotel.
Known for their work on Gleneagles Townhouse and Cameron House, 3DReid have sensitively blended the Francis Hotel’s rich Georgian heritage with contemporary designs and comforts, fulfilling a vision to create one of the UK’s premier townhouse hotels. The interiors draw from a modern interpretation of classic Georgian colour palettes and craftsmanship, preserving heritage whilst embracing innovation.
Each guest room has been carefully designed as a personal sanctuary, featuring plush fabrics, bespoke furniture, and subtle nods to the building’s Georgian roots. Materials, textiles, and curated artwork by Artiq reflect the stories of past occupants in the original townhouses.
The 98 redesigned rooms, ranging from Cosy and Comfy rooms to the more spacious Generous rooms, offer an elevated guest experience with the perfect combination of comfort and thoughtful detail. Hypnos mattresses, rainfall showers, and handmade natural GAIA toiletries from the South West ensure maximum comfort. Guests will also find modern amenities, including flat-screen smart TVs, high-speed Wi-Fi, air conditioning, GHD hairdryers and straighteners, Nespresso coffee machines, classic Roberts Radios, and well-stocked fridges, all thoughtfully considered to create a seamless stay.
Further enhancing the hotel’s offering and complementing Bath’s wellness heritage, a state-of-the-art thermal spa will open in 2026. The spa will feature a tranquil garden retreat and a multi-use thermal room delivering steam, heat, and a curated menu of bespoke treatments, designed to restore mind, body, and soul.
Shaun Bowles, Cluster General Manager at the Francis Hotel Bath, comments: “This £14 million transformation is more than a design update of the Francis Hotel; it’s a complete reimagining of what the hotel stands for. Alongside the physical refurbishment, we’ve made a significant investment in our team, giving them the tools and training to deliver truly exceptional and heartfelt service. This marks an exciting new era for the hotel, where heritage, hospitality, and innovation come together in perfect harmony.”
Earlier this year, in May, the hotel launched Emberwood as part of its revival, a bold new British brasserie led by Executive Head Chef David Hazell. The restaurant brings open-fire cooking and a meticulously crafted seasonal menu to Bath’s dining scene, celebrating British produce in a warm, modern setting.
Whether for a mini escape or a longer stay, the Francis Hotel will offer a refined and welcoming retreat. With its renewed interiors, commitment to comfort, and deep connection to Bath’s architectural heritage, it stands ready to redefine townhouse luxury in the heart of the city.
