Today’s news in brief – 21/3/25

Templeton Garden, the latest hotel from lifestyle brand Miiro, has appointed Will Meredith as bar director to lead the launch of Sprout, a new cocktail bar in Earl’s Court, London. Meredith, formerly head of bars at Tattu and a veteran of renowned venues like Dandelyan and Lyaness, brings award-winning expertise to the role. At Sprout, he collaborates with Ellie Camm and bar manager Dominic Royle, drawing inspiration from the hotel’s garden. Their menu highlights seasonal ingredients, including fresh herbs, and introduces the innovative “Keystone Cocktail” concept, where each drink is defined by a central element. Meredith aims to create a space that celebrates bartending craftsmanship and fosters guest engagement.

The Signet Collection has announced the opening of its fourth hotel, The Alfriston, set for 27 March 2025 in the South Downs. The boutique property will feature 38 individually designed rooms incorporating warm tones, upcycled antiques, and hand-painted ceilings inspired by the Bloomsbury Group. The hotel will include the 1554 Brasserie, a bar, the Orangery for afternoon tea, and the signature Signet Spa with a sauna, steam room, treatment rooms, and an outdoor pool. A function room for up to 120 guests makes it ideal for events. Managing partner Hector Ross emphasizes the brand’s commitment to relaxed luxury and local character.

Novotel and Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) have launched the Novotel Legendary Rooms, immersive hotel experiences celebrating PSG icons. Each room is themed around a legendary player, featuring memorabilia, digital storytelling, and exclusive interviews accessible via QR codes. The first Legendary Room, dedicated to Javier Pastore, debuted at Novotel Jakarta Cikini on 20 March 2025. More will follow across Asia, the Middle East, and Europe. Novotel’s Jean-Yves Minet describes the project as an opportunity to create memorable experiences for football fans, while PSG’s Nicola Ibbetson sees it as a way to deepen global fan engagement.

Crossbasket Castle, a five-star hotel in Glasgow, has officially opened with art deco-inspired interiors and a new restaurant, Trocadero’s, overseen by Michelin-starred chef Michel Roux. Set on 14 acres of countryside, the hotel’s expansion was led by owners Alison and Steve Timoney. The concept blends vintage glamour with live entertainment, including music from a double bass. A dedicated spa and eco lodges are set to launch later in the year. Alison Timoney highlights the hotel’s design as a luxurious retreat, while Trocadero’s aims to create a vibrant dining experience where “champagne flows and anything goes.”