AN ICONIC Richmond hotel has been taken over by hospitality giant Best Western after a visit by inspectors last week.

The King’s Head Hotel is a Georgian townhouse hotel in Richmond’s Market Place, and joins sister hotels Best Western Dower House and Spa in Knaresborough and Best Western Angel and Royal, Grantham in a move to the global brand.

A spokesperson for owners Ashdale Hotels said the signage on the hotel would not change the name.

They added: “The hotel has recently completely refurbished its lounge area along with several of the bedrooms which have been restored to reflect the hotel’s character.

“Planned for the next few months are an upgrade of the reception area and restoration of another original fireplace in the Zetland Bar.”

General manager Hendrik Le Roux, who has worked with Ashdale Hotels for more than a year but took up post at the Richmond hotel in July, said: “I am absolutely delighted the King’s Head is now a Best Western Hotel.

“My team and I are very proud of what we have achieved and look forward to a successful partnership.”