A hat-trick of headline deals across Wales has signalled a long-awaited upturn in confidence in the region’s appeal as a major UK tourist destination, according to sector experts at Colliers International.
Hotels Director Peter Brunt has signed off three major deals in as many weeks at Slebech Park in Pembrokeshire, the Llanwenarth Hotel near Abergavveny and the Dragon Hotel in Montgomery.
He said: “Right across the market we have seen a sudden surge in interest and activity. Viewing rates have soared and buyers are finding that properties are much less likely to sit on the market and that they need to pick up their skirts and chase.
“The fact these sales have been achieved across the hospitality spectrum from large hotel and estate to town hotel to country restaurant suggests this is no midsummer flash in the pan but a widespread recognition that tourist attractions in the principality are finding favour once again.”
Slebech Park hotel was once the headquarters of the Knights of St John in West Wales. The park was the subject of a £4m restoration and investment project in 2003 but the luxury hotel ran into difficulties as the recession began to bite less than ten years later. The hotel and estate was sold to a single purchaser introduced by Peter on behalf of administrators at BDO.
Peter Brunt has also handled the sale of the characterful Llanwenarth Hotel near Abergavenny to local businessman Martin Haven on behalf of former Wales international rugby league player Richard Wallace.
He said: “I was delighted to help sell the hotel as Richard’s old sporting injuries were beginning to catch up with him, limiting his ability to run what is in fact a very strong business.”
The 17-bedroom hotel boasts outstanding views towards the Sugarloaf mountain and Brecon Beacons National Park and is an ideal base for visitors looking to explore the region.
Peter’s third success in as many weeks came in Powys where a consortium of local investors headed by chartered accountant Mark Cadwallader has taken over the reins at the Dragon Hotel in Montgomery.
The distinctive grade II former coaching inn in the heart of Marcher Country stands next to Montgomery Castle overlooking the town’s market place and is a magnet for locals and visitors alike.
Joining Mark in the new venture are wife Rhian, sister Clare and husband Simon Cousins along with Simon and Elaine Bedford.
The consortium intend to refurbish the landmark hotel and will work on a five year plan to restore it to its former glory as principal hotel destination in the town
Peter Brunt added: “This was the third hotel in Wales I concluded in a few weeks and I am seeing a noticeable pick up in viewings and serious interest during this year compared to last, with Welsh hotels proving their appeal to buyers.”