Press Releases
Christie Finance arranges funding for couple to purchase historic Grade II* Listed hotel in a pretty Dorset village
Christie Finance has successfully arranged the funding for Nick and Sheila Gilbey’s purchase of The Queens Armes Hotel, one of the oldest buildings in the seaside village of Charmouth near Bridport in Dorset.
Built in 1480 as a manor house to Forde Abbey, its visitors reportedly include Catherine of Aragon in 1502, King Charles II in 1651, who carved his initials into the fireplace, and Edward Prince of Wales in 1902. The building is Grade II Listed, as it is of historic and architectural interest, and retains a wealth of character features. It has been run as a family hotel for a number of years.
The new owners, Nick and Sheila Gilbey, plan to comprehensively, yet sympathetically, refurbish the building and re-open it later this year as The Abbots House, as it was formerly known. Nick and Sheila are well-known to the local area, having run successful businesses for a number of years. Sheila has 30 years’ experience in the hospitality industry and previously owned ‘Jollys’ restaurant in Newton Poppleford.
Charlotte Burridge, from the Winchester Office of Christie Finance, who arranged the funding for the Gilbey’s purchase, commented; “I was delighted to arrange the funding for Nick and Sheila’s purchase of The Queens Armes Hotel. They are well regarded locally and Sheila has a number of loyal customers from her restaurant in Newton Poppleford, who have been eagerly awaiting her next business venture. After completing their refurbishment works to the property, they plan to re-open as The Abbotts House – a 24-cover restaurant with four luxury en suite letting rooms. The restaurant will be opened to the locals, as well as residents, providing a quality, bespoke food offering. I have no doubt that it will be a great success.”
For further information please contact Charlotte Burridge in the Winchester Office of Christie Finance on 01962 844455.
Our Ref: CFwin852
