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The Mercure Sheffield Kenwood Hall Hotel and Spa has marked its 100th birthday with a celebratory dinner and presentation by The Right Worshipful the Lord Mayor of Sheffield, Councillor Jayne Dunn.
The evening brought together over 100 guests from local businesses and organisations, with Sheffield city leaders, and valued supporters of the hotel, for a three-course celebration dinner.
At the start of the evening, the Lord Mayor of Sheffield, Councillor Jayne Dunn, presented a commemorative plaque to Garin Davies, CEO of Kenwood Hall’s owners, Vine Hotels, in recognition of the achievement. This will now be displayed in the Hotel’s reception.
Dating back to 1845, the property was built for local cutler George Wostenholm, who made his fortune in America. His love of the country was so great that he named his home, and modelled the area surrounding it, on the tree-lined streets of Kenwood in New York State.
The original house was constructed from stunning Sheffield marble, with its rooms beautifully decorated in ornate ceilings, grand fireplaces, and detailed gold leaf designs; much of these original designs can still be seen today. The house featured a low balustrade overlooking its gardens and included its very own chapel.
There is a rumour suggesting the House’s upkeep was funded through gunrunning during the American Civil War. With no direct heirs, George Wostenholm’s property was passed to his last wife’s heiress, Miss Margret Rundle, who was the last family member to reside in the house.
In 1924, it was sold to the Sheffield Café Company for conversion into a hotel. The original Kenwood Hotel was designed to cater to long-staying guests and, due to the Chairman’s religious beliefs, did not include a bar. Over the years, Kenwood Hall has been owned by various hotel chains, undergoing significant developments and refurbishments, though its serene gardens and peaceful ambiance remain, much like George Wostenholm would have known them.
Davies said: “Kenwood Hall holds a firm place in the affections of Sheffield. For 100 years it has been a part of the business community, and importantly, the lives of local people. I want to thank all those who have supported the Hotel, and tonight’s event captured the atmosphere that has made this Hotel so special.
“A century of welcoming guests, events and celebrations is quite an achievement, which would not have been possible without our incredible teams – past and present. We look forward to the next hundred years.”
Senior vice-president of Accor Franchise Operations, Stuart Symes, added: “The Mercure Sheffield Kenwood Hall Hotel & Spa falls into the rare category of being a hospitality centenarian.
“With a century of history behind it that has included a great ability to adapt, progress, evolve, and move with the times, it continues to deliver the warm hospitality that the region is known for. These are hallmarks that stand the Hotel in good stead for the future. Many congratulations to the Hotel and its team.”
