A hospitality boss says he is "absolutely delighted" after snapping up a 60-bedroom hotel on the north Norfolk coast.

Chestnut Group has acquired Le Strange Arms in Old Hunstanton - which includes its own beach access, self catering lodges and The Mariner pub -  for an undisclosed sum.

The hospitality business  - based at Higham, near Bury St Edmunds - owns 16 other pubs and hotels across East Anglia and continues to grow.

The latest acquisition was in a "unique position" on the north Norfolk coast, and provided an "exceptional" opportunity - both as a property and for its strategic importance to Chestnut, the company said.

(Image: Chestnut Group)

It fits the group's latest concept of "big houses" following the acquisition of The Old Bridge Hotel (Huntingdon) and the opening of The Maltings (Weybourne) in early August, it said.

Chestnut founder and managing director Philip Turner said: “We are absolutely delighted to have acquired this iconic venue.

“We’ve made no secret of the fact that we believe that Norfolk is strategically important to our growth ambition.  

"I have personally known the property for many years and am honoured to have the opportunity to navigate Le Strange Arms and The Mariner pub in the next leg of its journey.

“Howard and his team have done a remarkable job in maintaining the charm and excellence of Le Strange.

(Image: Newsquest)

"Our model has always been about identifying destination properties in the East of England, bringing in investment, working with our communities and building a guest experience to be proud of.

Since March 2020 Chestnut has committed significant investment in Norfolk through business acquisitions and strategic development of assets to build a portfolio of almost 200 bedrooms.

This has provided more than 250 jobs and boosted local economic growth," said Mr Turner

"This is a hugely exciting project for the team at Le Strange, Chestnut and our guests.”