£10m deal sees leisure resort change hands

A leisure resort which has hosted a number of English aristocrats, including the Duke of Windsor, during its time as a hunting lodge, has sold for a price in the region of £10m.

In a deal brokered by Knight Frank, the Barnsdale Hall Hotel has been sold to Dineshbhai and Savitaben Patel.

The estate, on the banks of Rutland Water, has 55 acres of grounds and gardens with 66 guest bedrooms, 31 lodges, and 18 apartments.

The venue also includes four bars and restaurants, spa facilities, and 11 function suites, as well as a swimming pool, squash and tennis courts, and an air conditioned studio and gym.

Dineshbhai Patel commented: “Barnsdale Hall Hotel is a truly incomparable resort nestled in a magical setting within Rutland – boasting spectacular views overlooking Rutland Lake and a wonderful range of leisure facilities.

“We fell in love with it the moment we saw it, and are incredibly excited to have the opportunity to take it to the next stage of its development and journey.

“We are delighted to be working with the exceptional management team who have shown remarkable resilience and determination over the past few months, which have been a challenging and difficult time for everyone working in the hospitality industry. The commitment and loyalty of staff at all levels has been incredible, the accommodation and grounds are looking beautiful and we look forward to welcoming guests again with a focus on delivering the very highest standards of quality, luxury and service.”

Matthew Smith, partner at Knight Frank, said: “We are thrilled to announce the sale of Barnsdale Hall Hotel, and given the exceptional circumstances over the past few months we agreed the sale in the midst of the Government lockdown with all parties involved working tirelessly to achieve a successful outcome.

“Although challenging times, it has been a pleasure working with both buyers and sellers to overcome unprecedented and uncertain obstacles to ensure the transaction continued on course. Dineshbhai and Savitaben Patel and their family have acquired a truly exceptional lakeside resort, with its elevated position offering unparalleled views over Rutland Water. Having been in the same family ownership for the past 35 years, this now represents an exciting new chapter for the business under the ownership of the Patel family.”