A CITY hotel has gone on the market for the first time in 37 years - for £2.75million.

Grasmere House Hotel, originally built in 1896 as a private house, is a hotel and wedding venue on Harnham Road, and is on the market through Christie & Co.

The hotel is set on the banks of the Rivers Avon and Nadder, is a ten minute walk from Salisbury City Centre, and has 38 en-suite bedrooms and a conservatory bar and restaurant.

The hotel has been accredited as an AA 3-Star 75 per cent hotel with one Rosette for fine dining.

The property has been owned by the same family in excess of 37 years and this is the first time the business has been put on the market during this period.

They said: “We bought and developed this property 37 years ago and have thoroughly enjoyed every minute of working in this outstandingly beautiful setting.

"The mix of business has brought us significant repeat patronage from both corporate and leisure customers who have supported us throughout our tenure.

"There is enormous potential in the business going forward and I am looking forward to handing over the reins to a new owner for them to take the business to the next level.”

The hotel trades under the Great National Hotels & Resorts Consortium. The hotel is offered for sale either free and clear of Great National Hotels & Resorts, or under the current agreement.

The current owner has also decided to run the business under management with an external management company utilising the booking channels.

Ed Bellfield, Regional Director at Christie & Co is handling the sale.

He said: “The Grasmere House Hotel has an established reputation, appealing to both leisure and corporate guests due to its proximity to Southampton, Winchester and the New Forest National Park. There is significant scope for an experienced owner/operator to invest in the site and benefit from its exceptionally unique location.

“We expect the property to appeal to a wide range of buyers including those looking to purchase a single asset as well as those looking to expand their current portfolio. We also anticipate high levels of interest from both national and international investors attracted to the UK market.”

Grasmere House Hotel is currently on the market with a guide price of £2,750,000.