Dorset-based brewer and pub operator Hall & Woodhouse has bought the Wilsons hotel, restaurant, club and conference centre in Torquay off a guide price of £1.1m.

The detached, three-storey building – which is opposite the Babbacombe theatre -  has an elevated position in the Devon seaside resort and commands views over the coast to Lyme Bay.

The food-led multi-faceted business includes seven furnished suites; two restaurants to seat 76 and 68 diners; a late-night, 150-capacity lounge/nightclub; and a conference suite for up to 30 delegates.

There is also a one-bedroom managers’ flat, a patio and a sun terrace with seating for 40 diners.

The acquisition becomes the seventh Devon property in the Hall & Woodhouse estate of more than 250 pubs.

The Exeter office of Christie + Co sold the hotel on behalf of Rod and Laura Ivey.

By Angela Frewin