The Mercer Collection properties are situated in Southsea, a delightful area of Portsmouth. Portsmouth hosts the Historic Dockyard, Mary Rose Museum, DDAY Museum and Gunwharf Quays- a large designer outlet, museums, & children’s attractions, such as the Sea Life Centre & attractive gardens and walks. Just 10 minutes away on the Hovercraft is the Isle of Wight - perfect for a day trip. Looking to stop somewhere before your ferry to France or Spain? We are just 15 minutes from the ferry port.
The first Boutique hotel in the group was Florence House Hotel, renovated and opened in 2005 with seven bedrooms. The first of its kind in the area, the hotel aimed to cater for guests looking for individual service, stylish design and comfortable rooms. In 2006 Somerset House Hotel opened, now with another 8 bedrooms, including a large Bridal Suite, perfect for special occasions. In 2009, a large bed & breakfast establishment came up for sale on the same street corner as the other properties. The property was opened in 2010 as Stattons Boutique Hotel. The building had its own car park - rare for a central hotel in Portsmouth.
In 2012, two properties directly next door to Florence House became available and The Mercer Collection seized the opportunity to expand next door to the original hotel. The Florence Suite opened late 2013 & Florence Gardens in 2014 followed later by The Clarence now an annex of the main group located 2 minutes walk from the main properties. .
In 2021 The Garden Southsea opened offering guests and locals a beautiful outdoor dining venue to enjoy throughout the summer.
Following previous ownership The Florence Arms was re-added to the group in 2023, redesigned and refurbished offering a fully air conditioned restarurant and bar to hotel guests and locals.