Halcyon backs £2m fawsley hall deal

By Andrew Sangster

The company that owns the Halcyon, one of London's most exclusive townhouse hotels, is branching out into the country house hotel market with the aim of creating a "new breed" of accommodation.

Celebrated chef Nico Ladenis is also involved in the project to open what is planned to become one of the UK's most prestigious luxury hotels.

The Halcyon Hotel Corporation is in the final stages of negotiating a management contract for Fawsley Hall, situated between Banbury, Oxfordshire, and Northampton.

Fawsley, a Grade I-listed building, has been a pet project for its antiques dealer owner, Ted Saunders, since 1975.

Mr Saunders took on the property when it was virtually derelict and has instigated a gradual restoration programme, including replacing the roof and furnishing it with antiques.

Around £2m is to be invested in opening the property as a 43-bedroom hotel by this August. Food is expected to be a key attraction for guests, with Mr Ladenis overseeing the development of the 80-seat restaurant.

Heading up the management team at the new hotel is Robert Wauters, also general manager at the Halcyon. "We have a special opportunity with this property, which has many unique facets," he said.

The building dates back to the 12th century and has three period wings added at later dates - one Tudor, one Georgian and one Victorian. Each wing will be decorated in keeping with its architectural period.

The hotel is surrounded by 300 acres of parkland and has 30 acres of grounds designed by landscape gardener Capability Brown.

Rack rates at the hotel will start from £150 a night and go up to £300 for a suite. Key markets are expected to be weddings and conferences for up to 200 people.

Mr Wauters said he hoped the project would lead to further management contract opportunities for the Halcyon Hotel Corporation.

"We are currently exploring a number of opportunities at London properties," he added.