Cirencester’s Ingleside hotel opened its doors on Saturday 30 May. Situated next door to the town’s award-winning Barn Theatre the stylish boutique hotel has been created by transforming Ingleside House from offices, a language school and rehearsal studios into an 11 bedroom hotel.
With the restaurant Teatro, situated in the old servant’s quarters and basement of this historical building the whole site has a unique offering for the discerning Cotswolds traveller.
Ingleside was built in 1812 for a Mr Baylis a wealthy local man whose business was transporting goods to London from the region. The house moved onto the Sewell family and the 1851 census showed ownership of a Mr Joseph Sewell, a gentleman! Since then it has gone through various changes, to offices for the WW2 effort and more recently a community centre and private school. It was granted Grade 2 listed status in August 1992.
The idea to convert the building was that of Ian and Chrissie Carling, the benefactors of the Barn Theatre. “We wanted to bring something different to the region and the town,” Ian said. “There are lots of hotels and accommodation around the Cotswolds but this one comes with theatre on its doorstep, and hopefully no drama within’’.
“Recent events meant that Ingleside House was no longer required as office space with so many now working from home. It has always been in the back of our minds to convert it, the building is so special and we have taken much care to make each room have its own unique story to tell and with such a bold design – it really is something to be proud of’’
The hotel now boasts 11 individually designed bedrooms, a large garden and marquee area, ideal for weddings and celebrations and fire pit dining, perfect for those summer evenings.
Téatro has been a roaring success too and the hours have now been extended to open for breakfast and brunch seven days a week for hotel guests and Cirencester locals alike.
Rachel Wright is a director of Ingleside and said: “Our aim is to make your stay memorable and we offer you a relaxing base in the heart of the Cotswolds, be it to explore the area, take in a show and dinner or just a romantic getaway. The hotel is the missing link that we have been waiting for.’’
Ingleside will continue to offer multiple event spaces throughout the year, from Teatro’s private dining to large garden parties as well as linking up with the Barn Theatre to offer packages to those visiting Cirencester.
