UK: An investment consortium led by serviced office provider Office Space in Town (OSiT) has bought the Burgh Island Hotel in Devon.
The OSiT-led investment group has taken over the iconic Grade II-listed art deco hotel and the island’s pub, the Pilchard Inn, which was established in 1336 and also become the new owners of the island, which is cut off from the mainland twice a day, requiring a “sea-tractor” to transport guests to and from the island.
The Burgh Island Hotel is undergoing a year-long multimillion pound renovation, with several new guest experiences being considered as part of the transformation, including a private members club and a luxury spa.
OSiT’s clients will be able to enjoy the hotel at discounted rates for corporate events such as AGMs and shareholder meetings, offer it as part of staff bonus packages or even hire it for personal use for special occasions such as birthdays, weddings and Christmas.
Built in the 1920s, the hotel has hosted many notable figures across the world of arts, entertainment and politics and has acted as a location for a number of films and television series such as Poirot and Lovejoy. Guests have included Agatha Christie, whose visits reportedly inspired some of her best-selling novels; the Beatles, who stayed at the hotel when they were playing a concert in nearby Plymouth; and Noël Coward.
Giles Fuchs, co-founder and CEO of Office Space in Town, said: “We are extremely excited to acquire Burgh Island, including its iconic hotel, which has been one of Britain’s most distinctive destinations for almost a century. Over the years it has attracted a cultural tapestry of visitors and played a unique part in the country’s history. OSiT has an exceptional track record for delivering outstanding design and quality of service in its portfolio of serviced offices, and we look forward to extending this expertise into the premium leisure and hotels markets. The restoration of Burgh Island Hotel to suit modern tastes will be our first project. Luxury tourism in Britain is booming, and we are delighted that our first investment in this sector will serve to enhance and ensure Burgh Island continues as a leading high-end travel destination. Once again, The Burgh Island Hotel will be known as it was in the fifties, as ‘the best hotel in the UK west of the Ritz’.”
General manager Vlad Krupova said: “The team at Burgh Island is delighted to be working with OSiT and their team to further improve the hotel’s amenities and continue the journey to further its rightful place as a national treasure as well as a top domestic and International leisure destination. We are immensely proud of the hotel’s history and heritage. Over the years we have hosted political, cultural and musical figures from Noel Coward to Winston Churchill. Following the renovation, we look forward to continuing to welcome our loyal guests as well as welcoming new leaders and cultural icons among our guests in the future!”
