Sunday with Miriam Francis & John Brennan
Oct 12, 2025
Francis Brennan, an experienced hotelier and TV presenter, and his brother John, a veteran in the hospitality industry, share their journey after selling the iconic Park Hotel in Kenmare. They discuss their daily routines and new passions, including ongoing projects and TV appearances. The brothers reflect on family work ethics, humorous holiday hosting challenges, and their evolving relationship over the years. Additionally, they dive into the trend of open-plan hotel bathrooms and their practical instincts shaped by early experiences.
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Choosing To Stay Close After The Sale
- Francis kept an apartment on the Park Hotel grounds after the sale and visits only to collect post every few days.
- He values being in town for convenience and enjoys the feeling of 'coming home' to Kenmare.
Hotel Ownership Never Switches Off
- John emphasised hotel ownership means constant responsibility 24/7 and never truly switching off.
- Selling the hotel removed relentless stress and restored personal downtime.
Unpredictability Defines Hospitality Stress
- Francis and John pointed out hotel crises can happen at any hour and owners are the first contact for emergencies.
- That unpredictability makes hotel management uniquely intense compared with other businesses.