Grade II-Listed Hotel – Administration

Overview

Moorfields were appointed as Administrators over a Grade II-listed, 63-bedroom hotel located in London, formerly the historic headquarters of the White Star Shipping Line, renowned as the owner of the RMS Titanic.

The property, subject to £15 million of bank debt, was an iconic heritage asset that had been converted into a luxury hotel but faced financial challenges due to high operational costs and market headwinds within the hospitality sector.

Objectives

• Preserve the trading potential and brand value of a landmark hospitality asset.
• Maintain employment and guest service standards during administration.
• Protect the property’s heritage features and regulatory compliance.
• Achieve an orderly sale to maximise value for creditors.

Moorfields’ Actions

• Continued to trade the hotel for two years, ensuring business continuity and cash flow stability.
• Implemented strict financial and operational controls to reduce losses and improve efficiency.
• Worked with hotel management specialists to maintain high service levels and occupancy rates.
• Appointed specialist hospitality agents to market the property to both domestic and international investors.

Results

• The hotel was successfully sold as a going concern, preserving its historic value and brand reputation.
• Jobs were safeguarded, and trading continuity maintained throughout the administration.
• Lender recoveries were maximised, achieving a strong return relative to market conditions.
• The transaction ensured the ongoing operation of a landmark London heritage property under new ownership.