Somerset hotelier and businessman Kevin Newton has acquired the five-star Summer Lodge Hotel and Spa in Evershot, Dorset, from Red Carnation Hotels, bringing the historic country house property under new ownership.
Situated in the Dorset countryside, in the village associated with novelist Thomas Hardy, Summer Lodge features 25 individually designed rooms, suites and cottages, four acres of walled gardens, a spa and a three AA Rosette restaurant.
Newton brings experience in hotel ownership, property development and the restoration of historic buildings across the south-west of England.
He previously owned the Swan Hotel in Wells, Somerset, where he invested in the property and developed an outdoor dining terrace overlooking Wells Cathedral.
He also owns the Shrubbery Hotel in Ilminster, Somerset, which underwent refurbishment following his acquisition of the property.
The purchase of Summer Lodge represents a further investment in the regional hospitality sector, with Newton planning to work alongside the hotel’s existing team to explore opportunities for its future development.
Kevin Newton said:
“I fell in love with Summer Lodge as soon as I saw it, nestled in the Dorset countryside. It is a very special place, with a remarkable history and a team that is dedicated to providing an impeccable service.
“We’re at the beginning of this new chapter, and I’m looking forward to spending time with the team, getting to know our guests and understanding what they love about Summer Lodge.
“There is already a great deal here to be proud of. As we develop our plans for the future, we’ll take the time to explore how we can build on its strengths and look to improve the offer.”
Summer Lodge has a history dating back to 1798, when it was constructed as a dower house for the Melbury Estate.
Thomas Hardy, who trained as an architect before establishing his literary career, later contributed designs for parts of the building, including the Drawing Room and Master Suite.
The property has operated as part of the Red Carnation Hotels collection for more than two decades, developing its reputation as a luxury country house hotel.
Jonathan Raggett, Chief Executive Officer of Red Carnation Hotels, said:
“Summer Lodge Country House Hotel & Restaurant in Evershot, Dorset is a wonderful property that has been part of the Red Carnation collection for over two decades.
“I would like to thank our exceptional team, whose sincere and intuitive service, rich in personal touches and individuality, has defined the guest experience over the years.
“We remain firmly committed to our ongoing investment strategy across our other 14 hotels. Looking ahead to 2027, significant developments are planned across the portfolio, including at Ashford Castle in Ireland, Hotel d’Angleterre in Geneva, and The Twelve Apostles Hotel & Spa in Cape Town.”
Summer Lodge was recently included in The Telegraph’s Best 250 Hotels in the UK, reflecting its established position within the country’s luxury hospitality sector.
The hotel will continue operating as normal under its new ownership, with Newton intending to assess opportunities to develop its accommodation, dining and wider hospitality offering while retaining the property’s historic character.