Windsor: Film-famous Oakley Court goes on the market

The Oakley Court hotel has been put up for sale for an undisclosed sum after falling into administration. 

The four-star, 118-bedroom structure was originally build in 1859 as a private residence, but it became known as the setting for Hammer Horror films, and its Gothic architecture made it the ideal location for the film set of Dracula. It was also was used as Frank-N-Furter’s castle in the cult classic Rocky Horror Picture Show and the school in St Trinian’s. The hotel’s film connections benefited from its situation in 33-acres of grounds overlooking the River Thames, adjacent to Bray Studios.

The Windsor-based hotel also enjoyed the limelight when hosting the Team GB rowing and canoeing teams during last year's Olympic games. General manager Richard Smith headed a team which created a 'mini-village' at the hotel to look after 110 athletes and back-room staff, including Sir Steve Redgrave. Bedrooms, lounge and dining areas were lightly refurbished and longer beds purchased for the rowers.

Once owned by Queens Moat House, the property was bought in 2006 by Irish-owned group Heuston Hospitality, which was dissolved in May. It is currently operated by Principal Hayley Hotels, which was itself acquired by Starwood Capital earlier this year.

With a nine-hole golf course and extensive meeting and conference facilities, The Oakley Court achieved a net turnover of more than £7.3 million during 2012.

Julian Troup of property agents Colliers International said: “A considerable amount of interest from both domestic and international prospective buyers is expected due to the hotel’s impressive history, location and outstanding reputation.

“Oakley Court is one of the most impressive hotel assets that has come to the market in recent years and its quality will drive the level of demand.”