Hotel group with designs on ‘character chain’ buys historic Lakes facility

Newly-launched hotel group H&M has bought its first property in the Lake District as it bids to create chain of ‘character hotels’.

It has acquired the 150-year-old Stonecross Manor Hotel – a 30-room facility in Kendal – which will be run by Onecall Hospitality.

H&M is now to embark on a major refurbishment programme for Stonecross’s bedrooms, bar, restaurant and function room.

Onecall Hospitality managing director Mark Chambers said: “Stonecross Manor Hotel is one of Kendal’s best known hotels and is well loved by locals and visitors to the Lake District alike.

“It is our ultimate intention that it will be the first of a unique collection of hotels of character under the ownership of H&M Hotels.”