von Essen Hotels acquires Hunstrete House
von Essen announced the acquisition of Hunstrete House, a landmark quintessential country house hotel only a stone’s throw from the elegant city of Bath, and just under 100 miles from London. Set in almost a hundred acres of grounds at the edge of the Mendip Hills, it has a idyllic setting which offers traditional comforts in tranquil surroundings.
Hunstrete has a rich and lengthy history. Home of the Popham family of Littlecote for some three hundred and fifty years, it can trace its lineage as far back as the reign of King Athelstone in 936 AD. The House has retained the atmosphere of a private country retreat and is beautifully furnished with antiques and original paintings; indeed, much of the beautiful furniture, porcelain and artwork decorate the Georgian property’s 25 bedrooms.
Noted internationally for its service and fine dining, which blends modern English with French influences, the hotel looks out over fields framed by woodlands, as well as deer grazing in parkland beside the house. The peace of the setting, one of the special charms of the hotel, has encouraged an abundance of wildlife which provides home-grown seasonal produce.
The acquisition of Hunstrete House sustains a very successful year for von Essen and is the latest addition to the 24 strong collection which includes well known properties such as Cliveden in Berkshire and The Royal Crescent in Bath.
Andrew Davis, Chairman, von Essen hotels comments: “The last few months has seen von Essen’s first step into London and the start of our drive into Europe. We have also expanded our luxury aviation business, with the purchase of Premi-Air from the Sir Robert McAlpine Group. The acquisition of Hunstrete is a reminder that our primary passion is for great British houses, beautiful landscapes and fine art, so ensuring their joys are conserved for the delight of our guests and the benefit of future generations”.
Report by Chitra Mogul
