AN HISTORIC hotel in Evesham has been sold for a sum off its asking price of £2.5 million.

The Grade II listed Evesham Hotel in Coopers Lane, which has been run by the same owners for 40 years, was bought by a party whose identity has not been disclosed.

Although the final selling price has not been revealed, it is thought to be in the vicinity of the asking price.

Peter Brunt, hotels director for Colliers International, conducted the sale on behalf of owners John and Sue Jenkinson and said: "The Evesham Hotel, which was once known as the ‘Mansion House at Bengeworth’, became one of the UK’s most distinctive and best-loved hotels during the 40 years in which it was run by the previous owners, winning myriad awards and recommendations.

"Now an exciting new chapter is to begin under new owners with extensive experience in the hotel industry, who will be aiming to build upon that reputation and take The Evesham Hotel to new heights of success."

Dating back to 1543, the property was originally built as a mansion and was a private residence until it became a hotel in 1926.

Since the Jenkinson family bought the hotel in 1975 it has undergone substantial alteration and has been expanded to create 37 en-suite bedrooms, a number of public rooms and an indoor swimming pool and spa.

During a major refurbishment project in 2009, ancient window panelling dating back hundreds of years was uncovered in one of the hotel's Georgian rooms.

And it has won many awards including the prestigious Good Hotel Guide Editor's Choice 2015 Award for Family-friendly Hotels.

Mr Brunt added: "The Evesham Hotel attracted considerable interest from prospective buyers, which is very much a reflection of how the hotel market in and around the Cotswolds continues to go from strength to strength.

"Unlike many other regions, the Cotswolds and surrounding areas performed well during the economic downturn and it is now providing to be a magnet for discerning buyers seeking a location that combines historic buildings in beautiful settings with convenient transport links."