Gravetye Manor, one of the UK's first country house hotels, has been sold to its general manager and head chef for an undisclosed sum.
General manager Andrew Russell and head chef Mark Raffan have bought the 18-bedroom hotel in East Grinstead, West Sussex, from Peter Herbert, who is retiring after 46 years as proprietor. The new owners, who have been at the hotel for 17 years, don't plan any major changes, but will invest in technology. Herbert will remain as a consultant.