'Clear opportunities for future growth': Historic Belfast hotel sold to hospitality operator for undisclosed sum
The 1852 Hotel, a 21-bedroom property in Belfast’s Queen’s Quarter, has been sold by Ringland Group after more than a decade of ownership, with its existing management team remaining in place
Belfast's historic 1852 Hotel has been sold to hospitality operator Fahrenheit 7 in a deal advised by CBRE NI and CBRE Hotels.
The sale of the Botanic Avenue hotel marks the end of Ringland Group's ownership of the landmark property, which it has operated since 2015.
Located in the city's Queen's Quarter, opposite Botanic Train Station, The 1852 Hotel comprises 21 en-suite guest bedrooms, the Town Square Bar and restaurant, and group accommodation facilities.
The property also has planning permission for an additional five bedrooms, offering scope for expansion under its new ownership.
Originally built in 1852, the building has evolved over more than 170 years from a dance school into one of Belfast's best-known independent hospitality venues. The property went on the market in June for offers over £2.85m.
During Ringland Group's ownership, the hotel underwent substantial investment and operational improvements, building a strong trading record and an experienced management team.
The deal is particularly significant for Ringland Group, as The 1852 Hotel was the company's first venture into the hospitality sector.
The existing management team will remain in place, led by general manager Andrew McWhirter, providing continuity for guests and staff as the business moves into its next chapter.
Peter Ringland, managing director of Ringland Group, said: "The sale of The 1852 Hotel is a significant milestone for our business. The 1852 represented our first step into the hotel sector and has played an important role in our journey over the last decade.
"We are incredibly proud of what has been achieved here and grateful to the exceptional team who have contributed to its success. We are delighted to see the hotel enter its next chapter under Fahrenheit 7's ownership and look forward to watching its continued success."
Paul Collins, executive director of CBRE Hotels, added: "The successful sale of The 1852 Hotel demonstrates the continued strength of investor appetite for quality hospitality assets across Northern Ireland.
"The property combines a prime city location, a strong trading history, experienced management and clear opportunities for future growth, which made the property an attractive proposition for buyers.
"We were delighted to advise Ringland Group on this transaction and wish Fahrenheit 7 every success as they build on the strong foundations established at the hotel."
The sale comes amid continued investment in Belfast's hospitality sector, with the city's tourism, leisure and accommodation markets attracting interest from local and regional operators.