A 19th Century hotel visited by royalty and celebrities has been put on the market for the first time in more than 50 years.

The French Horn at Sonning Eye, on the Oxfordshire-Berkshire border, is being listed with an asking price of £12 million.

Formerly a coaching inn providing a rest stop for people and their horses, the hotel and restaurant has been run by the Emmanuel family since 1972.

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Among the 21-room hotel’s guests are Princess Diana and Hollywood actors George Clooney and Elizabeth Taylor.

It has also featured in ITV detective drama Midsomer Murders.

Speaking to the BBC, current owner Michael Emmanuel said: “It is with a mixture of sadness and excitement that we have made the decision to put this iconic property on the market.

"It's not easy to say goodbye to a place that has been the heart of our family for so long, but we're eager to see the next chapter of its storied history unfold.

"We're grateful for the support and loyalty of our patrons and look forward to passing the torch to someone who will continue to honour the legacy of this beloved establishment.”

Guests at the hotel and restaurant are greeted by a ‘French Horn tradition’, the sight of ducks roasting in front of an open fire.

Room and Breakfast accommodation is available at The French Horn, from £170 for two people, up to £225.

 

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This story was written by Matthew Norman, he joined the team in 2022 as a Facebook community reporter.

Matthew covers Bicester and focuses on finding stories from diverse communities.

Get in touch with him by emailing: Matthew.norman@newsquest.co.uk

Follow him on Twitter: @OxMailMattN1