AN iconic St Davids hotel which has greeted pilgrims for centuries has been snapped up by a local buyer.

Situated opposite the square, the Old Cross Hotel went on the market last November for a cool £750,000 freehold with the agents Colliers International.

The three star hotel dates back to the 18th century and is an ideal base for exploring Britain's smallest city and the Pembrokeshire coastline.

The Old Cross last changed hands in 2002 – when the present owners took over from a family who had operated the hotel since 1956.

The hotel boasts 16-bedrooms and a restaurant which can seat 50 when laid for a function.

Colliers International Hotels Director Peter Brunt said: “There was considerable competition to purchase the hotel with its prime position in the heart of the city."

He was not able to disclose who had bought the hotel, but said it had been “snapped up by experienced regional operators who know how to exploit the considerable opportunity the hotel offers.”

Mr Brunt added: “The opportunity to run one of the most charming hotels in this popular tourist location does not come around very often. St Davids offers a wealth of reasons to visit and the surrounding area draws thousands of visitors through a long season as well as making it a lovely place to live.”