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Accor is to bring the Mövenpick brand to the UK for the first time after signing an agreement with Select Group to convert and relaunch the Old Thorns Estate in Hampshire as a 194-room resort.
The hotel, to be known as Mövenpick Hampshire – Old Thorns, is expected to open in late 2027 following a full renovation. The estate spans more than 300 acres and will offer a championship golf course, 2,500sqm of conference and meeting facilities, four restaurants, a wellness centre with a new spa, and a ballroom capable of hosting more than 500 guests.
Mövenpick was founded in 1948 and grew from a Swiss restaurant business into an international hotel brand with a focus on culinary operations. Accor said the signing formed part of a wider European expansion, with recent first entries in Poland, Greece and Italy.
Graham Dodd, vice-president of development for UK and Ireland at Accor, said: “Bringing Mövenpick to the UK marks an important step in strengthening our premium brand portfolio and reinforcing our growth commitment for this important market.
“Mövenpick is a world-renowned brand that is recognised for its culinary excellence and environmental responsibility, which align perfectly with the expectations of UK guests. The Old Thorns estate provides an exceptional backdrop to introduce the brand in this incredibly important destination for Accor.”
The renovation will focus on guestrooms, expanded wellness and leisure facilities and revised dining concepts intended to reflect the brand’s culinary identity. Accor will manage and operate the hotel under its agreement with Select Group.
Israr Liaqat, group chief executive of Select Group, added: “This property stands as a landmark of character and opportunity. Its celebrated history aligns seamlessly with Mövenpick’s commitment to authentic experiences and Swiss-inspired hospitality. Together with our trusted and established partner Accor, we will elevate this iconic property into a world-class resort destination, blending heritage with the sophistication of the Mövenpick brand.”
The estate lies about an hour from London, close to Guildford and Petersfield and near attractions such as the South Downs and the Goodwood Estate. The hotel will join Accor’s portfolio of more than 200 sites in the UK and Ireland.
