New Forest: Cloud Hotel sold by former Tiller Girl Avril Owton

The award-winning, three AA star Cloud Hotel on the outskirts of the village of Brockenhurst in the New Forest National Park has been sold through specialist business property adviser Christie & Co.

Owned and operated for the past 42 years by former famous Tiller Girl Avril Owton, MBE, the elegant 17-bedroom hotel comprises three lounges, a bar, 50 cover restaurant, conservatory, 30-cover function room and one bedroom owner’s accommodation.

Enjoying a strong reputation locally, the hotel attracted a significant amount of interest and has been purchased by experienced hotel operators, Chris Legg and Stewart Wills who have been looking to relocate to the New Forest National Park.

Owton commented: “Having owned the Cloud Hotel for over 42 years, I am delighted to be handing over the reins to seasoned hoteliers, Chris Legg and Stewart Willis who I am sure will continue to take the business from strength to strength.”

Ed Bellfield, regional director of Christie & Co’s Winchester office who handled the sale, commented: “I am delighted to have facilitated this sale on behalf of Avril and wish her all the best as she looks forward to a very well earned retirement.

“The New Forest is a highly sought after location for hotel operators and due to the shortfall of hotel businesses coming to market, we are experiencing significant demand from hotel owners, operators and investors.”

The Cloud Hotel was sold off an asking price of £1.7 million.