A historic hotel has been saved from the jaws of administration, with all employees’ jobs saved too. The Welcombe Hotel in Stratford-upon-Avon was sold out of administration to The Welcombe Estate Limited in an acquisition which will reportedly save all 99 employees who are transferring to the new ownership.
According to a notice published in The Gazette, Geoffrey Wayne Bouchier and Benjamin John Wiles of Kroll Advisory Ltd were appointed as joint administrators on November 2. Mr Bouchier, managing director of Kroll Restructuring, is quoted by Boutique Hotelier as commenting: “Our priority throughout this process has been to achieve the best possible outcome for employees and stakeholders. We are delighted to have completed a transaction that secures the future of the hotel, preserves all 99 jobs and places the business in the hands of an experienced operator committed to its long-term success.”
The hotel is a Grade II listed property and dates back to 1866 when it was first built as a country mansion for businessman and former MP Mark Phillips.
It was converted to a hotel in 1931 and today boasts 85 bedrooms as well as a host of other amenities. The hotel has an 18 hole golf course, swimming pool, gym and spa as well as meeting and event spaces.
A two-night stay at the hotel for two adults in November would cost £277 on a room-only basis, or £313 with breakfast. Adding dinner to both nights would cost an additional £120 or so. As it stands, the hotel has four out of five stars on Google reviews, with visitors mentioning the beautiful, albeit slightly dated, interiors and grounds.
One woman wrote: “Although this hotel is slightly tired it is still lovely and has some beautiful features. The views from the bar and dining area are absolutely stunning. My room was very nice and the bed was absolutely beautiful. Everything was clean, white and fresh.”
Another said: “If you love a 1920s Agatha Christie vibe, The Welcombe is a must-visit. The hotel is an amazing palace with a timeless, elegant atmosphere that makes you feel like you’ve stepped back in history.”
Another said: “Got married here in July and it was a dream come true! The hotel is stunning on the outside and inside. Fantastic views and incredible for wedding photos. We stayed in one of the bridal suites and it was the most incredible room I’ve ever stayed in. The staff at the hotel were amazing and absolutely made the day for us. Nothing was too much trouble for them.”
