04/12/2025
Historic Worcester Hotel Enters New Era Under Local Ownership
Ownership of the iconic Diglis House Hotel in Worcester transfers to local hospitality group Spirit Hospitality, part of Pershore-based Spirit Ventures.
This riverside landmark has been owned by its previous proprietor, Mrs Julia Seymour, for 31 years, and was sold as she entered retirement. All existing staff will be retained, and all bookings remain secure.
Situated on the banks of the River Severn, Diglis House Hotel is a Grade II listed building, first listed in 1954. With origins predating the 1600s, it was rebuilt and extended during the Georgian era. In the 1800s, it was the home of Edward Leader-Williams, acting engineer of the Severn Navigation Company, and his brother Benjamin Williams-Leader, a world-renowned artist.
The purchase of Diglis House Hotel is part of Spirit Hospitality’s vision to develop a network of upscale, historic and boutique hotels across Worcestershire and local areas, linking historic properties that celebrate the local heritage and landscape. This complements the recent acquisition and renovation of Colwall Park in the Malvern Hills, which re-launched in November 2025.
By connecting existing properties, including The Angel in Pershore, an AA 5-Star Inn and in the “Georgian Gem” town, and The Seven Stars and Colwall Park in Herefordshire, the group aims to encourage visitors to travel between local towns and cities, increasing overnight stays, supporting independent businesses, and boosting the local tourism economy.
Like other Spirit Hospitality venues, Diglis House Hotel offers historic architecture, stunning gardens, wedding and event spaces, and accommodation: 33 rooms at Diglis, 23 rooms including three holiday cottages at The Angel, 22 rooms at Colwall Park. The venues are licensed wedding locations with a strong reputation for service and atmosphere.
A defining feature of Spirit Hospitality’s approach is its commitment to sustainability and high-welfare farming. The group sources much of its produce from its own farm near Kempsey, Worcestershire. The farm raises pigs, lambs, and turkeys to the highest welfare standards, including British Lop Pigs—a rare and endangered native breed. The Angel’s orchard produces apples and plums, and the apples are used to make original Angel Juice cider, pressed locally in Peopleton.
This farm and orchard produce is already used in existing properties, including The Angel and Banking Hall, The Claude Choules Bar & Kitchen in Pershore, The Seven Stars in Ledbury, and Colwall Park near Malvern. It will now be featured at Diglis House Hotel, ensuring menus are seasonal, local, and sustainably sourced.
“Using our own produce means we know exactly how it’s been raised or grown,” explained Steve Waites, Lead Director of Spirit Hospitality. “It’s better for animal welfare and for the environment, and we can ensure the highest quality and care for every dish.”
Spirit Ventures is owned and led by Darren Eden, a Worcestershire-born entrepreneur with a strong track record of community engagement. “This is an exciting opportunity to strengthen the local area’s appeal as a destination,” said Darren. “We want visitors to experience our history, hospitality, and beauty through our collection of hotels.”
For more information, please see spiritventures.co.uk and diglishousehotel.co.uk
