Today’s news in brief – 20/09/23
Iconic Luxury Hotels has unveiled The Chelsea Townhouse, formerly the Draycott Hotel, following a significant makeover. Located on the Cadogan Estate, the boutique hotel spans three Victorian townhouses and offers 36 bedrooms. The restoration, overseen by architect Gary Kellett, has preserved much of its original charm. Accommodations range from spacious suites to cosy rooms and garden suites with direct access to Cadogan Gardens. The hotel also features a ground-floor “dining salon” open throughout the day. Andrew Stembridge, Executive Director, highlighted The Chelsea Townhouse’s embodiment of residential Chelsea’s spirit, offering an independent and authentic experience in contrast to larger, internationally-owned hotels in the city.
Clermont Hotel Group has welcomed two senior directors to bolster its commercial function and drive expansion. Marc Saunders joins as sales and marketing director, focusing on brand development and marketing strategies, drawing on his extensive experience across various industries. Stuart Yeates assumes the role of group revenue and M&E director, with a background in revenue management within leading hotel groups. These appointments align with Clermont Hotel Group’s aim to strengthen its brand, marketing, and digital strategy in London’s competitive market. CEO Gavin Taylor emphasised the importance of capturing a fair market share and potentially investing in some properties as they continue to pursue growth and expansion.
Vine Hotels has taken over the management of the Best Western Abbots Barton Hotel in Canterbury, expanding its portfolio. The Sangiuseppe family, who have owned the hotel for over 25 years, will retain ownership. Vine Hotels will oversee a refurbishment plan initiated in 2021, adding 22 guestrooms. The hotel, conveniently located near Canterbury centre, offers 77 guest rooms, a bar, and The Fountain Restaurant. Vine Hotels CEO Garin Davies expressed enthusiasm for developing a sales and marketing strategy to capitalise on the local tourist economy, while Daniel Sangiuseppe, from the owning family, praised Vine Hotels for their expertise and passion for hospitality.
Bespoke Hotels has sold its White Horse Hotel in Dorking to the Heartwood Collection for an undisclosed sum. Bespoke had acquired the historic inn in 2017 and invested £4m in refurbishments, launching it as the White Horse Hotel and Dozen Restaurant in 2018. The Heartwood Collection plans to relaunch the property as part of its portfolio in 2024. Bespoke Chairman Haydn Fentum expressed satisfaction with the sale, highlighting plans for future acquisitions in the UK. Harriet Fuller, from Savills’ hotel capital markets team, praised the sale as a testament to the market’s appetite for well-located and well-capitalised assets.
