Chestnut buys seaside hotel for ‘Big Houses’ collection

The Chestnut hospitality group has added a north Norfolk hotel to its portfolio as part of its ongoing expansion.

The group, which won the Pub and Bar Award at the 2023 Cateys, has acquired the Le Strange Arms hotel in Old Hunstanton for an undisclosed sum.

Le Strange Arms has its own beachside access, 60 bedrooms, self-catering lodges and is home to the Mariner pub.

It will become part of Chestnut’s latest ‘Big Houses’ hotel division, alongside the recently-acquired Old Bridge hotel in Huntingdon and the soon-to-launch Maltings in Weybourne in August.

“We are absolutely delighted to have acquired this iconic venue,” said Philip Turner, founder and managing director of Chestnut.

“We’ve made no secret of the fact that we believe that Norfolk is strategically important to our growth ambition. 

“I have personally known the property for many years and am honoured to have the opportunity to navigate Le Strange Arms and the Mariner pub in the next leg of its journey.”

Over the last decade Chestnut has grown to 17 pubs with around 200 bedrooms and employs over 250 people.

It also has a dedicated wine division having acquired Peter Graham Wines in 2023 and independent specialist Bijou Wine Merchant this year.