Dracula hotel in Windsor goes on the market
The four-star, 118-bedroom Oakley Court hotel in Windsor, which has earned fame as the setting for Hammer Horror films and hosting the Team GB rowing and canoeing teams during London 2012, has been put up for sale for an undisclosed price after falling into administration.
Originally build in 1859 as a private residence, its Gothic style made it the ideal location to be used as a film set for Dracula. It was also was used as Frank-N-Furter's castle in the cult classic Rocky Horror Picture Show and the school in St Trinian's. The hotel's film connections benefited from its situation in 33-acres of grounds overlooking the River Thames, adjacent to Bray Studios.
During last year's Olympic games, general manager Richard Smith headed a team which created a "mini-village" at the hotel to look after 110 athletes and back-room staff, including Sir Steve Redgrave. Bedrooms, lounge and dining areas were lightly refurbished and longer beds purchased for the rowers.
Once owned by Queens Moat House, the property was bought in 2006 by Irish-owned group Heuston Hospitality, which was dissolved in May. It is currently operated by Principal Hayley Hotels, which was itself acquired by Starwood Capital earlier this year.
Oakley Court, which has a nine-hole golf course and extensive meeting and conference facilities, achieved a net turnover of more than £7.3m during 2012.
Julian Troup of property agents Colliers International, said that "a considerable amount of interest" from both domestic and international prospective buyers is expected, due to the hotel's impressive history, location and outstanding reputation. "Oakley Court is one of the most impressive hotel assets that has come top the market in recent years and its quality will drive the level of demand."
