LYME Regis’ iconic Royal Lion Hotel is set to close while refurbishment works are carried out following the acquisition of the site by a Dorset brewery.

Hall & Woodhouse completed the purchase as part of its ongoing estate expansion.

The brewer, which is delighted with its latest purchase, plan to shut the hotel for a ‘short period’ while it upgrades the site before reopening again in early March.

Mark James, property director at Hall & Woodhouse, said: “We are delighted to purchase the highly successful Royal Lion Hotel and carry on the good work of the former owner, Lesley Stone, who operated the hotel for more than 19 years.

Dorset Echo: The Royal Lion Hotel, picture: Hall and Woodhouse

“At Hall and Woodhouse, we continually look to evolve as a business by proactively managing our estate and investing in pubs of the future.

“We are always seeking out further opportunities to grow through high-quality acquisitions that complement and enhance our existing estate’s offering.”

The Royal Lion Hotel was built in the 17th century and is located in the heart of the resort in Broad Street.

Inside there is a ‘characterful’ wood-panelled bar, large restaurant, 33 bedrooms with leisure facilities including a swimming pool and sauna, and car parking available outside of the property.

The deal to purchase the site was brokered by the independent hotel consultants and advisors (IHCA) as part of an off-market sale.

Andrew Theobold, of IHCA, said: “I am delighted that Hall and Woodhouse has been successful in purchasing the Royal Lion Hotel, the largest in Lyme Regis and a perfect fit for the brand.

“Hall and Woodhouse successfully fended off stiff competition from other buyers, which is testimony to their commitment towards this important acquisition.

“This purchase also further demonstrates how the sector is driving its way to recovery, evidenced by the sheer volume of active buyers in the current climate.”

The Royal Lion Hotel will be the company’s first pub in Lyme Regis and it promises to return with its ‘popular food menu’ in March.

Hall & Woodhouse has already purchased several properties across southern England and says they have plans in motion for acquiring further sites, including more in Dorset as well as Devon and Surrey.