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The Apartment Group (TAG) has expanded its portfolio through the purchase of two County Durham hotel properties.
The North East leisure operator has confirmed that Whitworth Hall Hotel and Deer Park and Jersey Farm Country Hotel will join its portfolio of hotels, restaurants, bars and wedding venues located across the North East of England.
The group is now planning to invest “millions of pounds” at both sites to create two five-star boutique hotels aimed at the leisure, wedding and corporate market. While Runa Farm will be open by the end of the year, Whitworth Hall is set to open in early 2021.
Debrah Dhugga, COO at TAG, said: “The hospitality and leisure industry has been under a lot of strain as it deals with the current Covid-19 pandemic and our industry has seen many casualties.
“However, we are beginning to see the light at the end of the tunnel. We are thrilled to welcome to the TAG family Whitworth Hall and The Jersey Farm Hotel and thank Christie & Co for helping us, once again, to find such ideal sites.”
The sale of Jersey Farm Hotel was completed in February this year. Following its acquisition, the site will be renamed Runa Farm.
According to TAG, the site will be an “intensely rustic inspired” hotel, country pub and wedding venue, combining “natural rural beauty with cool Balearic vibes to deliver something wholly unique”.
Dhugga said: “It is our plan to create an individual and special destination for “boho, honest and earthy” experiences, with the farm and its produce at the very heart.
“As well as laid-back and luxurious standout bedrooms and suites, you will also find cool glamping at Runa Farm, courtesy of the fabulous Shepherd’s Huts and Pig Houses, intended for guests looking to spend time learning about nature, life on the farm and each other.”
The group later acquired Whitworth Hall and Deer Park this month. The Grade II listed stately mansion, which is located near Durham city, features its own private deer park.
The 17th Century property remained a country residence until the late 20th Century, when it was converted into a hotel.
Dhugga said: “Our plans for Whitworth Hall are completely different to Runa Farm. Where Runa Farm will be luxurious boho and earthy, Whitworth will be an excess of opulence, sophistication and glamour, with a Chapel, ballroom, and bedroom suites like nothing else in the UK.”
