Kaleidoscope Hotels has acquired the landmark Dukes Hotel on Great Pulteney Street in Bath.
Dukes Hotel on Great Pulteney Street in Bath | Photo courtesy of Savills
Savills advised on the sale of the boutique hotel, which sold off market from a guide price of £4 million.
As Kaleidoscope Hotels build on their existing properties – The Bird in Pulteney Road in Bath, Homewood near Hinton Charterhouse and Bishopstrow near Warminster in Wiltshire – it’s a positive sign for the South West tourism and hospitality sector, which saw an 8% increase in visitors in 2023.
Situated on Great Pulteney Street, Dukes is the number one rated hotel in Bath on Tripadvisor.
The Grade I listed 17-bedroom hotel occupies two townhouses, with a legacy dating back to the 18th century.
Originally known as St Monica’s, the property underwent various transformations before assuming its current identity as Dukes in 1985, paying homage to the Duke of Clevedon.
Kaleidoscope’s vision for Dukes includes a meticulous refurbishment plan and the introduction of a boutique wellness facility.
The company is owned by Ian and Christa Taylor. Ian Taylor said: “As Dukes integrates into the Kaleidoscope portfolio, the focus will be on continuing to bring our playful spirit into the hospitality world, whilst fostering a sense of community among the brilliant team and bringing them into the family with a smooth transition.
“Looking ahead, exciting synergies across the portfolio will be explored, especially with The Bird, which is a neighbour of Dukes.
“As a hotel collection we delight in being different, and we are looking forward to bringing this unique approach to Dukes as it becomes part of the Kaleidoscope Hotels.”
The sale of Dukes was conducted on an off-market basis by Savills Hotel Capital Markets. Its director James Greenslade said: “This exceptional property is the perfect addition to the buyers’ portfolio of stunning hotels.
“The hotel has been tastefully decorated with antiques and fine art, and there are several opportunities to increase its offering subject to planning permissions.
“Dukes will remain open offering excellent service to their customers.”
Bath law firm Mogers Drewett advised on the purchase and associated financing arrangements. The firm’s corporate, commercial property, employment and HR teams were all involved in the deal.
Tom Webb, head of the corporate and commercial team at Mogers Drewett, said: “We have worked with Ian, Christa and the Kaleidoscope Collection group for over 10 years and this is the eighth hotel transaction that we have assisted them with.
“We are delighted to support this local success story as they expand their collection of luxury boutique hotels in the region.”
