The Wensleydale Hotel, Middleham sold to new owner

The Wensleydale Hotel, dating back to the 18th century, is situated in Middleham and overlooks the town’s cobbled square.

It contains 17 en suite bedrooms, a bar, a private dining room, and a restaurant called The Tack Room. According to the listing, The Tack Room holds an AA Rosette.

Known as ‘The Newmarket of the North’ with 15 horse racing stables nearby, Middleham is described as a “picturesque Dales town” and has a medieval castle, once the home of Richard III.

The hotel had been owned by Charles and Fiona Merchie since 2019, who ran the family business with their sons Monty and Hugo.

The Merchie family “invested immense care, hard work, and heart into building the hotel to the high standard it enjoys today,” Christie & Co, the sales advisor, said.

With a “strong reputation for warm hospitality, great food, and a genuine sense of welcome for both locals and visitors,” The Wensleydale is firmly established as a much-loved part of Middleham.

It has been sold to Oliver Kwok, who plans to “build on the strong foundations already in place, while contributing positively to the local community, supporting local people and placing an increased focus on sustainability and responsible hospitality.”

Outgoing owner Fiona Merchie said: “The Wensleydale has been such a big part of our family’s life, and we are incredibly proud of what it has become. We are delighted to be handing it over to Oliver and wish him every success as he leads the hotel into its next chapter.”

New owner Oliver Kwok said: “It is a real privilege to take on the stewardship of the Wensleydale. I am honoured with the trust Fiona has placed in me, and I look forward to building on the legacy she, Charles, Monty and Hugo have created.”