The owner of a sumptuous country estate on the outskirts of the city has revealed plans to open a luxury hotel - which might disappoint Queen fans.

Colourful businessman Peter Malkin had put Bridge Place Manor on the market for £2,360,000 – and attracted interest and a visit from legendary Queen guitarist Brian May.

But Mr Malkin, who has owned the historic manor for almost half a century, has now decided to stay put and expand operations instead.

He plans to open the opulent rooms to the public later this year, and is also set to roll out the entertainments schedule to include regular live music events.

“I love the old place and my heart is here,” he said.

“My dear boy Oliver is going to come home and help me run it.

“It’s a stunning setting and we are sure that people will love staying here. It’s really old English with antique mirrors, pictures and original staircases from 1638.

“People will love the chance to stay in a truly historic property.”

The Malkins plan to offer eight five-star double rooms, with breakfast included, at about £160-180 per night.

Rooms boast oak-pannelled walls, four-poster beds and antique furniture, including suits of armour.

The hotel will also offer smaller rooms starting from £60.

And from next Spring, the Malkins hope to open the five-acre site as a wedding venue.

Currently the house is used for a monthly country club night, but the owners plan to introduce extra entertainment events to the schedule.

“We’re going to have not only the club as usual, but we’re starting a jazz night too. It’ll be the first Saturday of every month,” said the 76-year-old.

“We want the house to be associated with live music again.”

In June we revealed that rock star Brian May was among high-net individuals who had expressed an interest in the property.

At the time, Mr Malkin refused to be drawn on reports that had placed May in the area on the day of open-house viewings.

But he now admits the guitarist visited, and says the star was smitten by the house.

“He was delighted. He loved the woodwork, the mirrors, the suits of armour,” said Mr Malkin.

Mr Malkin’s son Oliver, now 34, will move back to the home next month.

Mr Malkin said: “He was born here and feels this is his home. He was very upset at the thought of it being sold.

“I’ve got his name scribed into the woodwork.”