The island and hotel that inspired Agatha Christie are now for sale

An island and hotel in Devon that once inspired Agatha Christie has just entered the property walk.

Considered one of the finest examples of Art Deco design in Europe, the Burgh Island Hotel inspired Agatha Christie’s bestselling novel Evil Under the Sun, which features Hercule Poirot. The hotel was a favourite of the thriller writer, and one of the rooms was even named after him.

It is also a popular escape for celebrities seeking seclusion, including President Eisenhower, Prime Minister Winston Churchill, the Duke of Windsor, Wallace Simpson and the Beatles.

The hotel was built in 1929 and features 25 en-suite bedrooms, three restaurants, a sauna and treatment room, a billiards room, a two-storey staff house with nine bedrooms, on-site staff offices, a helipad and a mermaid pool – a naturally enclosed body of seawater for the ultimate swimming experience.

Nestled on a private island, the hotel can be reached by foot or car at low tide, or by sea tractor at high tide. Like a little slice of paradise, guests will have access to tennis courts, spa treatment rooms and The Pilchard Inn, one of the UK’s oldest public houses, also included in the sale.

iconic and spectacular island hotel set on 21 acres — Knight Frank

“It is rare that a hotel of such character and heritage comes to the open market. The Burgh Island Hotel is a stunning example of Art Deco architecture, steeped in incredible history and offering guests a sophisticated and unique experience,” said Matthew Smith, Partner in the Hotel Agency team at Knight Frank.

“The buildings have benefited from considerable investment in recent years and are operating as a thriving business, generating over £6 million in turnover in their last financial year. This is a unique opportunity to acquire a truly iconic hotel which benefits from a number of value-add opportunities to further develop its commercial performance and will undoubtedly appeal to an international investment audience.”

If you’re up for a commercial challenge, the council recently granted planning permission for an additional 12 bedrooms and suites and 13 staff rooms. According to Knight Frank, the hotel generates a total annual turnover of over £6 million.

The island is currently listed for sale for £15 million. For more information on the sale, contact Knight Frank.

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