PAG Hotels, Hertfordshire-based independent hotel group, has bought Auchen Castle Hotel in Dumfries and Galloway, Scottish Borders, for around £3m.

The four-star Victorian hotel, built in 1220, features 25 bedrooms, a bar and a restaurant, a helicopter landing pad and conference facilities.

Graeme Smith, from Christie + Co, who handled the sale, said: "The hotel was sold on behalf of Ann Skinner-Ter Smitte, who ran and developed the business over the past seven years with her silent partner, Cory Ter Smitte."

PAG Hotels also owns the 18th century, boutique hotel Castle Venlaw in Peedles, also in the Scottish Borders.

Auchen Castle Hotel has been operating for 55 years and has been host to the King of Norway, the Beatles and Barbara Cartland.