Investment in restaurants may be less appealing than before thanks to cost of living pressures and Covid-induced lifestyle changes – but if you are into hospitality investment, a rare opportunity is on the menu.

Knight Frank has been appointed to sell The French Horn hotel and restaurant in Sonning-on-Thames, Berkshire. Famous patrons of the past included Princess Margaret, Lady Diana and Hollywood greats Elizabeth Taylor and John Wayne. 

The property, which has been owned and run by the same family since 1972, is located along the banks of the Thames, with over 460 metres of river frontage, 14 large bedrooms in the main house, eight cottages and a legendary 100-cover restaurant.
 
There are also two large houses on the property, which subject to planning could be incorporated into the existing operation.
 
The hotel is located near Henley-on-Thames and Ascot racecourse, 17 miles from Windsor, four miles from Reading and 40 miles from London.
 
The former coaching inn is situated on an 8.6-acre multi-property site, with adjoining paddocks, exclusive mooring and fishing rights, and 30 parking spaces.

Additional properties included in the sale:
 
•  River and Bridge House: a single dwelling with four bedrooms and five reception rooms. Subject to planning, the property can be converted into two separate properties as additional rental accommodation;
 
•  Orchard Lodge: the property is currently divided into four separate apartments, including one two-bedroom, two one-bedroom and one studio apartment;
 
•  Staff accommodation: 16 staff accommodation chalets housed in single storey buildings;
 
•  Porter Cottage: a currently unused three-storey property;
 
•  Coach House: five double bedrooms offering potentially additional food and beverage space overlooking the Thames;
 
•  Timber Stable Block with a triple garage.
 
A Knight Frank spokesperson adds: “Having been so successful over the years, it represents a fantastic investment opportunity with excellent potential for value add and further business growth. Owning The French Horn is not just about acquiring a business; it’s about investing in a piece of English heritage that will be around for generations to come.”