Grade II listed hotel in Dorchester sold to Sleeping Bear Notels

The Georgian Grade II listed Best Western Wessex Royale Hotel in Dorchester, Dorset, has been sold to Sleeping Bear Notels for an undisclosed price, said Christie & Co.

The owner had independently owned and run the hotel, which has 29 ensuite rooms, since 2002 and has now sold to focus on other business ventures. It has been sold to Tudor and Lucy Hopkins of Sleeping Bear Notels, who also own a collection of boutique properties across Wiltshire and Somerset, including The Moonraker Hotel near Bath.

Tudor said: "The Wessex will be the first location under our new concept brand, 'Sleeping Bear Notels’.

"We’ll offer room-only accommodations, while encouraging our guests to explore and enjoy local restaurants.

"We believe this approach will be successful not only here in Dorchester, but across the UK. The hotel will be rebranded later this month, with our new website launching at www.sleepingbearnotels.com."

Stephen Champion, director - hotels south west at property adviser Christie & Co who acted for the vendor, added: "The excellent condition of the property and prime location in the centre of Dorset’s county town helped drive strong interest in this hotel, with multiple buyers emerging with interest in acquiring this hotel.

"We wish the new owners every success with their new business venture."