Comprehensive refurbishment on the cards for hotel following sale
The Craiglands Hotel, in Ilkley, has been sold to Aura Hotels, which is the luxury hotel division of Rambler Group Holdings.
The Victorian hotel and wedding venue features a spa, function and banqueting space and – when fully developed by its new owners – will offer 100 ensuite bedrooms.
Its sale was handled by specialist business property adviser, Christie & Co.
Qasim Ahmed, CEO of Rambler Group Holdings, which is a diversified business spanning transport, tourism, leisure and hospitality, said: “The Craiglands Hotel is a property of remarkable heritage and untapped potential.
“This purchase marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter, not only for the hotel, but for our growing presence in the UK hospitality sector.
“Our goal is to restore Craiglands to its former grandeur, while creating something truly special for both Ilkley and our guests.
“The hotel will undergo a comprehensive and sensitive refurbishment, with the aim of repositioning it as a leading four-star wellness destination.”
Aura Hotels is working with Mark Chambers of OneCall Hospitality in the acquisition and brand development process.
Chambers said: “This acquisition is the first of several for Aura Hotels as it builds a curated collection of elegant, experience-led properties across the UK.”
Handling the sale on behalf of Christie & Co, hospitality director Mark Worley added: “Craiglands is an excellent hotel in a fabulous part of the world, ideally placed for The Yorkshire Dales, Leeds, Harrogate and the wider West Yorkshire area.
“The level of interest was very strong with multiple offers received however it was very important to our seller client that the hotel should be sold to an experienced hotel and hospitality owner.
“We were pleased to be able to reach an agreement with Rambler Group Holdings and we are sure that the future of the hotel is in very safe hands. We wish them all the best.
“Like many sectors, the hotel industry is currently facing challenges. However this sale illustrates the ongoing demand for hospitality businesses of this magnitude, particularly those in prime locations.”
