Zeltgelst picks up 17th-century Llangollen hotel

It is a new era for the Hand Hotel on the River Dee as it changes owners after 25 years.

Zelgelst Consulting, an international investment firm, has acquired the 58-bed property in a deal off a £1.9m guide price. The exact cost of the hotel was undisclosed.

The Hand Hotel boasts 58 en-suite bedrooms, a bar, a bistro, private dining facilities, conference spaces, and exclusive fishing rights for the River Dee. Last financial year, the hotel saw a net turnover of more than £1.2m.

Graham + Sibbald was the agent for co-owner Louise Holland, while Compass Hospitality acted for Zelgelst. Davis Blank Furness and Anderson Strathern were the solicitors for Holland and Zelgelst, respectively.

Compass is also the new operator for the hotel in Llangollen, which traces its history back to being a coaching inn in the 1600s. The Thai hotelier entered the UK market in 2015 and has a 28-strong portfolio in the country. This includes the Victoria Hotel Manchester in Chadderton and the Lord Nelson Hotel in Liverpool.

“We are delighted to welcome The Hand Hotel into the Compass Hospitality family,” said Compass Hospitality chief executive Harmil Singh.

“Its heritage charm, central location in Llangollen, and riverside setting make it a valuable addition to our expanding presence in the UK,” he continued.

“This acquisition supports our strategy to offer guests quality stays in unique local settings, and we look forward to building on the hotel’s strong reputation within the community.”

Reflecting on the deal, Graham + Sibbald hotel and leisure partner Martin Davis said: “It was great to work with our clients, Louise Holland and her colleagues on the sale of the Hand Hotel… The outcome is a testament to the continued demand for profitable, high-quality hospitality investments in the UK’s most scenic and vibrant locations.”

Holland added: “Martin Davis brought serious buyers to the table without inflating expectations and provided support and clarity at every stage. His perseverance and expertise made all the difference, and I would highly recommend their services to anyone considering a share sale or business sale.”