Sussex hotelier to sell two properties ahead of retirement

The 12-bedroom Tottington Manor in Edburton, West Sussex, is seeking offers in the region of £1.75m; while Salford Hall in Abbot's Salford is on the market for £2.75m.

Salford Hall is a three-AA-star, Grade I-listed with 36 bedrooms and is a member of the Best Western consortium. Stewart bought the property out of the Cube Hotels administration in 2011 through his company Skylane Hotel Group.

The property's Grade I-listed former manor house, which holds 15 of the 36 bedrooms, dates back to the late 15th century. Tudor Court, a converted granary and barn, dates back to the early 17th century and holds 21 bedrooms.

Stewart also owns the 19-bedroom Highley Manor in Balcombe, Sussex, which he is considering bringing to market.

He said: "Apart from being a helicopter pilot and construction engineer I ended up with three fine hotels and have immensely enjoyed being involved with my three daughters in operating them. Over the past 50 years, I have learnt a vast amount and met some terrific people. My real thanks go to all those who have helped me along the way, and I could not have done it without their dedication and endless support."

Originally built as a guest house for the monks of nearby Evesham Abbey, the manor house of Salford Hall still boasts many historic features including a 17th century wall mural, recently uncovered and restored, a hideaway lounge with a secret priest-hole, and the original bell from 1470, which was stolen and later returned. The property also has its own tennis court.

Joshua Sullivan, senior business agent at Christie & Co who is handling the sale of Salford Hall, said: "Salford Hall is a classic country manor hotel set in an affluent location which presents a unique opportunity for a first-time entrant or an experienced operator to acquire a trophy asset with the ability to add value. There is also scope to expand upon the existing leisure, wedding and corporate trade with the addition of 10 further bedrooms and a spa facility which it previously had planning consent for."

Salford Hall is sold out of administration to Skylane Hotel >>