Today’s news in brief – 21/5/24
Kaleidoscope Hotels has acquired the historic Dukes Hotel on Great Pulteney Street in Bath, expanding its presence in the city to 46 keys. The acquisition aligns with Kaleidoscope’s strategy to reimagine historic properties while maintaining their legacy and enhancing guest experiences in the South West. The Dukes Hotel, a 17-bedroom establishment occupying two 18th-century townhouses, originally known as St Monica’s, was rebranded in 1985 to honour the Duke of Clevedon. Kaleidoscope plans to refurbish the hotel, respecting its historical significance while infusing it with the brand’s vibrant design ethos. The refurbishment will include upgrades to all bedrooms, public areas, and the addition of a boutique wellness facility. The existing team will continue operations to ensure stability during the transition.
IHG Hotels and Resorts has expanded its European upscale extended stay segment by adding over 380 rooms with the signing of Staybridge Suites properties in Budapest, Antwerp, and Belfast. These additions reflect the growing popularity of the extended stay market among both owners and guests. Each new property will feature fully equipped kitchens, 24-hour fitness rooms and convenience stores, complimentary laundry facilities, and storage lockers. Guests can enjoy a daily breakfast buffet and evening social events three times a week.
Foresters Hall, a meticulously refurbished hotel on the Isle of Wight, has been put up for sale for £2.3m by owners Sara Curran and Peter Sussman. The hotel features 14 bedrooms, a restaurant, bar, library, and outdoor heated saltwater pool. Curran and Sussman, who acquired the hotel without prior hospitality experience, have repositioned it as a community asset and elevated its status. They plan to sell as their daughter prepares to leave for university, and they wish to pursue writing and film projects.
Philip Raymond has been appointed head chef at the historic Pilchard Inn on Burgh Island, Devon. Raymond, with a decade of experience in Michelin-starred and AA Rosette restaurants, aims to enhance the inn’s culinary offerings with modern British pub fare. The Pilchard Inn, one of the UK’s oldest pubs with nearly 700 years of history, will continue to operate seven days a week, offering locally-brewed craft beers, wines, and spirits, including Burgh Island’s own gin. Raymond aspires to make it a top dining destination in Devon and the Southwest.
