Pub & hotel in historic Somerset village finds new owners
Specialist business property adviser, Christie & Co has sold the leasehold of the George at Nunney, a country pub and four star hotel situated in the village of Nunney, near Frome in Somerset, to a local couple, one of whom worked at the business.
Occupying a 17th century Grade II listed coaching inn, the George at Nunney provides substantial dining and drinking areas catering for over 100 covers in contemporary surroundings, having been carefully restored by the previous owner, whilst maintaining its original period features. Additionally, the property offers guest accommodation in the form of 10 high quality letting rooms.
Also on the site is customer car parking for up to 12 vehicles and an enclosed terraced garden with table seating for up to 40 covers, plus a night lit waterside terrace which sits on the brook running through the village.
Situated in Nunney, described by BBC Radio 4 as the prettiest village in England, The George is ideally located to cater to both local and international visitors drawn to the village due to its historical prevalence, home to a 12th century Grade I listed Saxon Church and 14th century castle with a moat said to be the deepest in England. The business also benefits from being close to popular nearby attractions including Longleat Safari Park.
Previous owner, Mr Gordon Hedges had owned the business for the past six years and invested heavily in the site over that time, establishing a widespread reputation for high quality. The George at Nunney achieved the prestigious ‘Retailer of the Year’ award from regional brewer Wadworth in both 2013 and 2016 and is also the highest ranked hotel in Frome on online booking sites.
Mr Hedges sold the George at Nunney to focus on his other business interests and to move closer to family.
The business was purchased by David & Sharman Barrett, who live locally and with Sharman having previously worked at the George at Nunney, they both saw a great opportunity to buy the leasehold when it came to the market.
Nicholas Calfe, Director at Christie & Co who handled the sale, comments, “Leasehold coaching inns of this quality, offering the three income streams, close to a well known tourist destination such as Longleat attracted interest from buyers all over the UK. The huge amount of investment and effort put into building up the George at Nunney by the previous owner, Gordon Hedges, made it incredibly attractive. We were delighted to have secured a sale with Mr & Mrs Barrett, who have a history with the business and are part of the local community.
“We wish Mr Hedges all the best for the future and are sure that the new owners of the George at Nunney will help the business continue to thrive.”
The leasehold interest of the George at Nunney was sold off a guide price of £245,000.
