OWNERS of the Castle Hotel in Devizes have put it on the market with a guide price of £175,000 for the leasehold.

The 18th century coaching inn has been run since 2012 by regional operator Old Sarum Hotels. But now owners Gary Morse and Jeremy King say they want to concentrate on their other hotel businesses.

Mr Morse said: "We believe that after seven successful years trading the Castle Hotel under management, it now needs a hands on owner operator to fully realise the value of the asset and to elevate it to the next level.

"Attaining the next level requires closer attention and greater involvement than myself and my partner, Jeremy King, can give to the site.”

Nicholas Calfe, director of selling agents Christie & Co said: “The sale of The Castle Hotel presents a rare opportunity to acquire a leasehold pub with a strong reputation in the quaint old market town of Devizes.

"We anticipate The Castle Hotel will generate significant interest, ideally suited for an owner operator looking to take the profitable and well established business to the next level.”

The pub has 19 bedrooms, a traditional bar and separate restaurant.

Christie and Co said: "The hotel benefits from strong occupancy and presents significant opportunity for a new owner to drive the business forward by developing local affiliations, enhancing the food offering, hosting themed nights or music events, upgrading the letting rooms or improving the business online presence."