A Bath-based specialist business has added a second hotel in the city to its portfolio, describing the move as making it “custodian of an iconic establishment”.
Hospitality management group Providence Hotels has taken on Grade I listed The Kennard boutique guesthouse on Henrietta Street through a lease agreement.
The hotel, pictured, built in 1794 and with 12 bedrooms over five floors, has been extensively restored over recent years. It also features a garden, breakfast room and on-street parking.
Providence Hotels, which works with independent hotel owners to enhance their operational efficiency and drive sustainable growth, has developed a 13-strong portfolio of upmarket hotels across the UK from Cornwall, Somerset and the Lake District to Scotland.
It also has six hotels in South Africa.
Its portfolio includes Bath’s 35-bedroom Parade Park Hotel on North Parade.
The firm said it boasted “a distinguished track record” in managing management contracts and lease agreements for independent hotel owners.
It added that the lease agreement with The Kennard “represented a strategic partnership aimed at preserving the hotel’s legacy by leveraging Providence Hotels’ expertise in hospitality management”.
Providence Hotels business development director Sybrand Engelbrecht said: “The Kennard holds a special place in Bath’s illustrious history, and we are honoured to become custodians of this iconic establishment.
“Our approach to hospitality revolves around fostering trust, authenticity, and accountability, values that align seamlessly with The Kennard’s ethos.”
Providence Hotels director of operations Dagmar Jungbauer added: “We recognise the responsibility that comes with managing a property of such historical significance.
“Our team are committed to honouring The Kennard’s heritage while infusing it with the warmth and personalised service that define Providence Hotels.”
The Kennard has had a number of owners over the past decade including Giovanni and Mary Baiano, who completed a comprehensive refurbishment before selling it in 2016 to Ajay and Priya Chathley. It was put on the market in 2021 with a price tag of £2m.
