An island and hotel in Devon that once inspired Agatha Christie has just entered the property market.
Regarded as one of the finest examples of Art Deco design in Europe, Burgh Island Hotel inspired Agatha Christie's best-selling novel, Evil Under the Sun, featuring Hercule Poirot. The hotel was a favourite of the thriller writer, with one of the rooms even being named after her.
It has also been a popular escape for celebrities seeking seclusion, including President Eisenhower, Prime Minister Winston Churchill, the Duke of Windsor, Wallace Simpson, and The Beatles.
The hotel was built in 1929 and boasts 25 en-suite guest bedrooms, three restaurants, a sauna and treatment room, billiards room, two-storey staff house with nine bedrooms, on-site staff offices, a helipad, and a mermaid pool — a naturally enclosed body of seawater for the ultimate swimming experience.
Nestled on the private island, the hotel is accessible by foot or car on low tide, or by a sea tractor at high tide. Like a slice of paradise, guests will have access to tennis courts, spa treatment rooms, and The Pilchard Inn — one of the UK's oldest taverns, also included in the sale.
"It is rare for a hotel of such character and heritage to come to the open market. Burgh Island Hotel is a stunning example of Art Deco architecture, it's steeped in amazing history and provides guests with a sophisticated and unique experience," says Matthew Smith, Partner in the Hotel Agency team at Knight Frank.
"In recent years the buildings have received considerable investment and operates as a thriving business which generated in excess of £6m turnover in its most recent financial year. This is a unique opportunity to acquire a truly iconic hotel that benefits from a number of value-add opportunities to further develop the trading performance, and will no doubt appeal to a global investor audience."
If you want to take on a business challenge, it's worth knowing the council recently resolved to grant planning approval for an additional 12 guest bedrooms and suites, and 13 staff bedrooms. According to Knight Frank, the hotel has a total annual revenue in excess of £6 million.
The island is currently listed for £15 million. For more information about the sale, contact Knight Frank.
Take a tour...
8 stylish garden parasols, umbrellas and bases to enjoy this summer – including a £30 designer collab
Staycation Vintage Parasols Pavilion-Portico Blush Parasol
We love the chic, vintage look of this striped garden parasol. It's been constructed with a solid beechwood pole (FSC-certified) and a water-resistant, UVF50+ canvas canopy.
The multi-position tilt function means you can stay shaded through the day, without uprooting the entire parasol. It also comes with a handy carry bag in matching fabric
Who says parasol bases have to be boring? This super stylish number from Dunelm is weighty enough to support your umbrella while still adding some charming vintage appeal with its pretty scallop design.
Add a harmonious pop of colour with this zesty green tasseled parasol, with a delicate dappled print. Its ergonomic pulley system with a swivel handle makes putting it up and down a breeze, too.
Habitat x Scion Garden Parasol
An exclusive collaboration with quirky designers Scion, this pretty parasol features a whimsical floral print and tassels that will lend a relaxed, jolly feel to any garden.
Plus, it's adjustable and tilts so you can stay shaded as the sun moves throughout the day.
This striped parasol, complete with a fringe edging, will make a fun addition to any garden. Designed for ease, it has a push-up mechanism for a simple setup. Please note, the base is available to purchase separately.
Add shade to your next alfresco lunch or dinner with Rowen & Wren's vintage-inspired design, hand-made in small batches.
In a subtle pink, it features a tactile lined cover, antique brass hardware, and a traditional pulley rope and pin system for a timeless, heritage feel.
No parasol hole in your garden furniture set? No problem. This contemporary-style overhanging umbrella will sit neatly next to your table, while holding its canopy overhead.
This parasol is best suited to small-to-medium tables; we tried it with our 10-seater setup and a few seats at the end didn't get the full benefit.
Our writer found the parasol easy to set up within about 15 minutes, and they earned multiple compliments on its smart looks from guests. The crank handle works smoothly, and the parasol has UV30+ coating for a little extra sun protection.
The Happy Place Handmade Patio Parasol
Resplendent in fringing and tassels, this handmade garden parasol brings Balinese artistry to your garden. There are lots of well-considered details to enjoy here, including a durian wood pole.
This parasol would add a relaxed yet celebratory feel to any garden party or alfresco event – assuming you're happy to share the shade.
Lisa Joyner is the Deputy Daily Editor at House Beautiful UK and Country Living UK, where she's busy writing about home and interiors, gardening, dog breeds, pets, health and wellbeing, countryside news, small space inspiration, and the hottest properties on the market. Previously, she has written for Conde Nast Traveller, House & Garden and Marie Claire magazine. Lisa studied at University For The Creative Arts, where she completed a BA in Fashion Journalism.
