Kaleidoscope Hotels strengthens presence in Bath with latest acquisition
Kaleidoscope Hotels, an independent, privately-owned collection of hotels, has acquired the Dukes, a landmark property nestled on the prestigious Great Pulteney Street in Bath.
This strategic move emphasises Kaleidoscope’s commitment to reimagining historic properties whilst continuing its legacy and enriching guest experiences in the South West. The acquisition also solidifies Kaleidoscope’s position as a leader in unique hospitality experiences and welcomes the company back to Great Pulteney Street in Bath; the first time since No.15 was open there. Kaleidoscope now has 46 keys in the city centre.
As Kaleidoscope Hotels builds on its existing properties, including Bishopstrow in Wiltshire, Homewood in Somerset and The Bird in Bath, it’s a positive sign for the South West tourism and hospitality sector, which saw an 8 per cent increase in visitors in 2023.
Dukes is synonymous with service-led hospitality and is the number one rated hotel in Bath on TripAdvisor. The 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, honouring the building’s historical importance while infusing it with the signature vibrancy and design ethos synonymous with the Kaleidoscope brand. Over the coming year, operations will continue with the existing team, ensuring continuity and stability. Future enhancements include refurbishing all bedrooms, revitalising public areas, and introducing a boutique wellness facility, paying homage to Bath’s rich, cultural heritage.
The hotel is acquired by owners Ian and Christa Taylor, expert hoteliers with over 25 years of experience transforming hotels into unique and distinct spaces, bringing a sense of playfulness and personality to each hotel in the collection.
Ian Taylor, Co-owner of Kaleidoscope Hotels, 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 the Dukes Hotel was conducted on an off-market basis by Savills Hotel Capital Markets.
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.”
Pictured above: the Dukes Hotel on Great Pulteney Street, Bath
