US-based investment firm Gencom has acquired Rosewood London, a 308-key luxury hotel at 252 High Holborn in Central London, marking its first luxury hotel acquisition in London and its entry into the European market.
The hotel occupies a freehold property in a landmark 1912 building close to Covent Garden, the Royal Opera House, the British Museum and Somerset House. The transaction was financed by HSBC and Santander, which provided a £225m senior debt financing package to support the acquisition and development of the property.
The acquisition also marks Gencom’s second owned asset under the Rosewood brand, following its purchase of Rosewood Bermuda in 2017. HVS Hodges Ward Elliott represented the seller in the transaction.
“Rosewood London has earned its place among the world’s premier luxury hotels, distinguished by its iconic setting in one of the most important global gateway cities and by an exceptional guest experience,” said Karim Alibhai, Founder and Principal of Gencom.
Alibhai added that the acquisition reflected the firm’s confidence in the long-term strength and resilience of the London hospitality market and represented a further step in its relationship with Rosewood.
The hotel underwent a comprehensive transformation between 2011 and 2014, led by design firm Tony Chi Studios. The refurbishment covered guest rooms, public areas, restaurants and meeting and events spaces.
Its accommodation includes guest rooms, suites and seven Houses, with the latter spanning up to 185 sq m. The Manor House Suite also features an independent street entrance.
The property’s food and beverage offering includes Holborn Dining Room, a modern British brasserie with an interior designed by Martin Brudnizki, and Scarfes Bar, which features cocktail offerings and live jazz programming. Other outlets include the Gin Bar, with more than 300 varieties, and Mirror Room, which serves all-day dining and afternoon tea.
“Rosewood London exemplifies the type of investment opportunity we seek: an iconic, irreplaceable asset in a premier global hospitality market with strong long-term fundamentals and significant value-creation potential,” said Alessandro Colantonio, Gencom’s Chief Investment Officer.
Radha Arora, President of Rosewood Hotel Group, said the company was pleased to build on its relationship with Gencom and would continue working with the hotel team to develop the guest experience.
Rosewood London was ranked 56th in The 50 Best Hotels in the World for 2026.
Gencom’s hospitality portfolio includes properties associated with brands such as Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts, The Ritz-Carlton, St. Regis, Thompson Hotels, InterContinental Hotels, Andaz, Fairmont and Auberge Resorts.
