Pure Regency Style: The Francis Hotel, Bath

Francis Hotel, Bath by Sue Lowry

When I first visited Bath, I was working for The Leading Hotels of the World and stayed in high style at the Royal Crescent Hotel. I remember the fun I had in exploring this gentle Somerset city and I longed to return.

Francis Hotel, Bath by Sue Lowry

As fate would have it, I was recently invited to experience the The Francis Hotel,  so returned to the city in an equally stylish fashion. Like the Royal Crescent, The Francis is situated in a Georgian terrace (seven adjacent houses converted into one) but is perhaps a little more central, overlooking a leafy square where, in the evening, a competitive game of boules is played by the locals.

Francis Hotel, Bath by Sue Lowry

Behind its listed regency facade, the decor is a clever mix of contemporary style, sitting comfortably amidst its historic setting.

Francis Hotel, Bath by Sue Lowry

Traditionalists may quibble with the juxtaposition of design elements, but I personally think the hotel has hit just the right note.

Francis Hotel, Bath by Sue Lowry

Touches of roguish Regency mix happily with mix-matched yet sumptuous armchairs, silhouette wallpaper, samples of exquisite Bath Aqua Glass and de-constructed crystal chandeliers.

Francis Hotel, Bath by Sue Lowry

It’s lighthearted and fun – and it certainly made me smile.

Francis Hotel, Bath by Sue Lowry

I stayed in the Jane Austen Room (you can’t get more Regency than that) and I loved the vibrant, dark colours and my views out over the square. Obviously there’s fast free Wifi, tea & coffee, gorgeous toiletries (Bigelow Apothecaries) and sumptuous linens and towels – that goes without saying.

Francis Hotel, Bath by Sue Lowry

Elements that stand out for me include the “now you see it, now you don’t” wardrobe which is a lot of fun.  This is the wardrobe closed …

Francis Hotel, Bath by Sue Lowry

and this is it open!  Clever, don’t you think, and appropriate to the age of the property.

Francis Hotel, Bath by Sue Lowry

This almost-vintage telephone was another hit to me.

Francis Hotel, Bath by Sue Lowry

The bathroom – well, if I could have, I would have packed it away in my suitcase so I think that just about sums up my preferences there.

Francis Hotel, Bath by Sue Lowry

We took afternoon tea (fresh and delightful) and what will make me consider making this my prime Bath address forever – were the friendly, happy staff who stopped at nothing to make my stay enjoyable. A hotel is only as good as its employees and these are just great.

Francis Hotel, Bath by Sue Lowry

Francis Hotel Bath, Queen Square, Bath, BA1 2HH – reservations call 01225 424105 or visit their website.  The rates for the Feature Rooms range from £160 – £325, room only.

Contributor & photographer :  Sue Lowry

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