Bespoke to manage National Trust's Hunter's Inn

Bespoke Hotels has been appointed to manage Hunter's Inn in Exmoor after its recent acquisition by the National Trust.

The freehold for the 10-bedroom, North Devon property was until recently being marketed by Christie & Co for a guide price of £1.3m. Local businessman David Orton had owned the business for the past 12 years, having bought the freehold for around £895,000 from Stuart and Marian Crocker in 2006.

Orton said: "I'm delighted that the National Trust is taking over as guardians, I know they will look after the Inn."

Originally a thatched cottage, the building was reconstructed in the ‘Swiss style' during the 19th century and set within four acres of landscaped ground. It features an adjacent two-bedroom, self-catering apartment, a bar, restaurant, and weddings and events facilities.

Hunter's Inn lies at the heart of 2,000 acres of land that the Trust already cares for. The property joins its growing collection of 39 hotels, pubs and restaurants across the country, which also includes Cliveden House in Taplow, Berkshire, Bodysgallen Hall near Llandudno and Hartwell House near Aylesbury in Buckinghamshire.

Graham Marskell, managing director of Bespoke Hotels, said: "Hunter's Inn boasts a truly spectacular location in the heart of Exmoor, as well as a fine culinary tradition, and we are excited to be welcoming a property with such character and heritage to the Bespoke portfolio."

Room rates start from £100 B&B.

Formed in 2000, Bespoke Hotels has grown to represent over 200 properties worldwide, including the Corbyn Head hotel in Torquay and the Treglos hotel in Newquay.

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