Bournemouth: Hermitage Hotel under new ownership

The hotels and leisure division of Goadsby has reported the sale of one of Bournemouth’s leading four-star hotels.  Widely regarded as occupying the premier site in the town, the Hermitage Hotel has been purchased by established Bournemouth hotelier David Young, off a quoting price of £7.5 million.

In the ownership of local property developer and investor Philip Oram for the past 21 years, the 75-bedroom hotel comprises the main hotel building, Brookside Annexe and the striking glass structure Rotunda Restaurant.

The complex has been the subject of a comprehensive building and refurbishment programme by the outgoing owner, raising the quality of accommodation to a high four-star standard with the restaurant achieving a coveted AA rosette.

Young commented: “I have been a long-time admirer of the Hermitage and am delighted to have secured such a fantastic opportunity that still offers potential for both development and growth.  Retaining the excellent management structure and team is important to the continuity of what is already a well-established and much loved hotel.  Going forward, we have ambitious plans for the Rotunda Restaurant which will add another dimension and draw further business to the location.”

Ian Palmer, divisional director of Goadsby, remarked: “This sale reflects the growing confidence in Bournemouth, notwithstanding the exciting developments under construction and vibrancy of the immediate location.  It is particularly pleasing that the hotel has attracted such an experienced operator and will remain in private ownership.”