Wirral wedding venue Leasowe Castle changes hands

A historic castle-style hotel on the Wirral has been bought by HDK Leisure Ltd after the firm secured a commercial mortgage of more than £1m.

Leasowe Castle, a grade II-listed building on the Wirral peninsula’s northern coastline, was snapped up by the Middlesex-based operator after it reached a funding agreement with Barclays.

HDK Leisure’s Bhupendra Gandhi said it has been his dream to own his own hotel.

He explained: “There were a number of trade buyers who were keen on purchasing this unique opportunity. As a result, it was imperative that I engaged with a lender who would be responsive and execute swiftly whilst providing support and guidance throughout the acquisition process.

“Anne Collins from Barclays was exemplary and professional throughout, navigating me through a number of hurdles and helping to complete the purchase within 10 weeks.

Bhupendra added: I am pleased to retain Anne’s continued support, as I look to develop the business over the next few years and fulfill the untapped potential that Leasowe Castle offers.“

Built in the 1590s, the castle has seen a number of uses over the years. The property first served as a hotel in 1826, later becoming a railway convalescent home. Between 1974 and 1980 it was owned by Wirral Borough Council, after which it became a hotel with operator Lawton Hotels acquiring it in 2000.

Anne Collins, a relationship director at Barclays, commented: “By working closely and really understanding the business, Barclays has been able to support Bupa financially and professionally throughout this acquisition.

“We are confident he can capitalise on the hotel’s enviable location to attract many new customers to this unique and historic venue.”

She continued, “We believe the end of the recession is paving the way for dynamic people who want to run businesses they are passionate about, and we want to help them achieve those ambitions, in the right way.”

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