Elephant at Pangbourne sold to Bluebelt Hospitality
The three-AA-star, 22-bedroom Elephant at Pangbourne, Berkshire has changed hands, with Bluebelt Hospitality acquiring the leasehold from Hillbrooke Hotels.
Expanding group Bluebelt Hospitality has bought the 18-year lease off a guide price of £230,000, and as a result has increased its portfolio of properties to four, including Widbrook Grange and the Boathouse pub, both in Bradford on Avon, Wiltshire; and Shieldaig Lodge, which is set to open in Gairloch, Ross-shire in June.
Originally launched in the late 19th century as the Elephant, the hotel was renamed as the Copper Inn during the intervening years before reverting to its original name. Under Hillbrooke's ownership, it has become known for its shabby chic décor with a nod towards Indian opulence from the days of the Raj.
Today it offers a 70-seat restaurant, bar, three banqueting spaces, and a garden which can cater for up to 150 covers.
Will Thomas of Fleurets, which marketed the property, said the Elephant hotel is in good condition and generated a great deal of interest.
"I have no doubt that the Elephant will fit well within Bluebelt's operations and will assist the group in establishing themselves as high end hospitality operators."
