A LANDMARK Taunton hotel has been SOLD - just two years after being refurbished.

The 37-bedroom venue, in Station Road, has been bought by hospitality management company HOST RHM.

The three-storey hotel will be operated by HOST RHM and is the first independent hotel investment in the area by the firm.

Founder and chair, Kevin McCarthy, said: “This is great news for HOST and reinforces our commitment to the local community and brings our rooms inventory in the region to over 1,500."

The current team will remain at the hotel to deliver existing services from guest relations to operations and maintenance.

Tim Jones, chief executive officer at HOST RHM, added: “This is an exciting step forward for HOST RHM and demonstrates our commitment to the local area and is the start of a new portfolio of high performing hotels for HOST RHM.

"Drawing on our vast experience and knowledge, we’re looking forward to applying our innovative, people-driven approach to the Royal Ashton Hotel and working with the team and the local supply chain to further maximise its full potential.”

The sale comes after the hotel was relaunched in 2019 after a major refurbishment by business partners Tony Smith and Dominic Stead.

Rooms are available to book now at https://via.eviivo.com/RoyalAshton.