The group acquired the four-star property from Legacy Hotels & Resorts, who have been operators since November last year, for an undisclosed sum.
Dating back to the 17th Century, The 23-bedroom hotel was previously owned by Laura Ashley’s husband up until his death last year, and is now filled with fabrics and furniture of the famous interior designer.
All staff at the hotel will retain their jobs, as will current general manager Drayson Kohli.
Michelin-starred restaurant?
A spokesperson for the group told BigHospitality that there was scope to develop Llangoed’s restaurant into Michelin star quality.
The acquisition of Llangoed Hall, which will join the group’s Classic Set, marks the second Welsh property for Von Essen, who also own the Michelin-starred Ynyshir Hall.
Andrew Davies, chairman of Von Essen, said the company currently had no plans to refurbish the hotel
“I am delighted to have acquired a property with such an individual history and in such a unique location,” he said. “The purchase of Llangoed is testament to my ongoing personal commitment to this company and our strategy for continued growth.”
Turnaround
Andy Townsend, chief executive officer of Legacy Hotels and Resorts, said: “Legacy can confirm that von Essen hotels has acquired the Llangoed Hall Hotel in Brecon for an undisclosed sum.
“We were appointed to stop the hotel from its historical position of producing operating losses to turn it into a profitable venue while preparing it to be marketed for a trade sale in conjunction with Simon Stevens at Christie and Co.
“Over the last 12 months we have generated a profit turnaround of a little in excess of £300,000 and we have been working closely with all the stake-holders in preparation for a smooth handover to von Essen hotels.
“This hotel fits perfectly into the von Essen collection and I am sure it will continue to thrive under their ownership."
Overseas expansion
Von Essen confirmed last month that it was targeting a number of properties in the UK and abroad, mainly France and Italy, for major international expansion.
The group has since responded to “several wealthy individuals” interested in taking a minority stake in the business to help push expansion plans forward.