A Barrow hotel has been sold to a hospitality group for an undisclosed sum.
Specialist business property adviser Christie & Co announced the sale of The King Alfred Hotel to Dorbiere.
Dorbiere, part of LWC Drinks, operates 40 pubs, country inns and student bars across the UK.
It has bought the Ocean Road venue, which has 10 en suite bedrooms.
The Victorian Gothic-style hotel opened in 1904 and is named after the HMS King Alfred, which served in World War One and was built just across the Walney Channel.
The King Alfred has been purchased by Dorbiere, part of LWC, the UK’s largest independent drinks wholesaler.
Former owner Mike Mulgrew said: “It has been a pleasure to play a part in the history of the much-loved King Alfred Hotel.
“We are grateful for the support of all our customers and guests, from near and far, and we have very much enjoyed our time as owners.
“We are delighted to hand the business over to Dorbiere who are committed to continuing to grow the business and be part of the vibrant local community, and we wish them the very best for the future.”
Ebrahim Mukadam, managing director of LWC/Dorbiere said: “Dorbiere is proud to announce the acquisition of The King Alfred.
“With its rich heritage and prime location, The King Alfred presents an exciting opportunity to create a destination where locals and visitors alike can eat, sleep, drink, and enjoy themselves.
“Over the coming months, we’ll be working closely with our head chef Nikki Irabor, to evolve the food offering, introducing new concepts, fresh cakes, and quality coffee, alongside extended kitchen hours.
“Our new general manager Alan Eddevane will lead the transformation of the bar and wider business into a real community hub, collaborating with local businesses and charities, enhancing the drinks range, and launching a refreshed entertainment and live sports schedule.
“The venue also boasts 10 rooms, which are currently being refurbished to offer guests a more comfortable and relaxed stay.
“The King Alfred is steeped in local history, and with Barrow now at the heart of a £9 billion government investment in submarine construction, the town’s future is just as exciting as its past.
“We’re thrilled to be the new custodians of The King Alfred and look forward to bringing new energy to this iconic venue while honouring its heritage and role in the community.”
The sale process was managed by Graham Wilkinson and Marslie McGregor from specialist business property advisor Christie & Co.
They said: ” The outgoing owners committed themselves to revitalise this well-known establishment and put it at the heart of the local community before retiring.
“We are pleased to have secured new owners who share the same vision and can continue to build on the first-class reputation that this popular hotel and pub has already achieved.
“Interest in The King Alfred was strong, and this demonstrates that operators continue to seek out high quality opportunities and are keen to invest in their portfolios. It also illustrates the interest in Barrow and the larger Furness area as further investment is made in the region.”
