THE new owners of a historic Hampshire hotel have unveiled plans to create more than 50 jobs.
The 18th century Bell Inn at Brook, near Lyndhurst, has been bought by Stellar Asset Management, which has also purchased the neighbouring Bramshaw Golf Club.
The Bell Inn has been closed since the start of the pandemic but the golf club reopened after restrictions were eased.
Formerly owned by the Crosthwaite-Eyre family, the two facilities went on the market in June last year. The asking price was £4m.
Stellar, which also owns the nearby Paultons Golf Centre, said the purchase of The Bell would create at least 50 jobs.
The 28-bedroom hotel is due to reopen on August 6.
A spokesperson said: "Stellar’s latest acquisition marks another bold venture into the vibrant leisure market as the company once again uses its expertise to unlock the business potential of another outstanding facility.
"Working in partnership with Ben Blackburn Golf, both the golf club and the inn will undergo a number of refurbishments."
Jonathan Gain, Stellar's chief executive, added: "We are incredibly excited to welcome Bramshaw Golf Club and The Bell Inn into our portfolio of leisure properties.
"We are looking forward to enhancing the potential of the golf course, clubhouse facilities and the inn for the benefit of members and visitors.
"This is an exciting space for us, and the popularity of both courses to members and visitors offers great potential for our investors.”
Bramshaw Golf Club comprises two 18-hole courses, one of which was built in 1865 and is said to be the oldest in Hampshire.
The Bell is a former coaching inn that is surrounded by ancient woodland despite being only a one-minute drive from junction 1 of the M27.
Its interior includes flagstone floors and large open fires, plus meeting rooms that can accommodate weddings, corporate events and other functions.
Ben Blackburn Golf said: "These two highly regarded properties exude character and are brimming with potential, thanks to their fantastic location in one of the most beautiful parts of the country.
“We are also extremely fortunate to be taking over a business that has been well managed by the previous owners."
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