AN iconic Chester hotel has been sold for an undisclosed sum.

The Mill Hotel & Spa, on Milton Street, will now be operated by Bespoke Hotels – the same company that took over management of the Chester Grosvenor in 2015.

Established in 1987 by well-known city businessman Gordon Vickers, The Mill became a popular venue for visitors to the city.

Mr Vickers said: “It has given me enormous pride to develop the Mill over the last 30 years.

“I look forward to seeing the Mill continue to grow and provide a high level of service to its customers.”

Haydn Fentum, CEO of Bespoke Hotels, added: “We are thrilled by the prospect of working with this historic property, as well as strengthening our affiliation with Chester and the North West of England, which is a flourishing market and region of real significance to the group.”

The three star Mill Hotel boasts 132 en-suite bedrooms, a restaurant and bar and spa and leisure facilities.

Consultancy firm RSM advised the vendors while Chester legal practice Aaron & Partners acted as legal advisors to the shareholders.

Mr Vickers said he was confident the hotel’s “atmosphere and culture” would be preserved under its new managers.

He said: “RSM’s understanding of the potential for continued development of the hotel and the key drivers of the leisure sector was critical in helping to identify a suitable home for the business which would preserve the hotel’s atmosphere and culture.”

Ian Latham, corporate finance partner for RSM, said: “The Mill Hotel is a well-loved Chester institution and the partnership with Bespoke Hotels going forward will further enhance its position.

“We received significant interest from potential purchasers and it was great to draw on our extensive sector experience to deliver a successful exit for the shareholders to the right purchaser and provide a strong platform for the future continued success of the hotel.”

Stuart Scott-Goldstone, of Aaron & Partners, said: “We are delighted and very proud to have played a part in securing this landmark deal.

“The Mill Hotel is one of the most well-known and popular hotels in Chester and we look forward to seeing it continue to develop in the hands of a new buyer with plenty of experience in the hospitality sector.”

Founded in 2000, Bespoke Hotels has grown to represent over 200 properties worldwide and stands as one of the UK’s largest independent hotel groups.