A Napoleonic fort on its very own island has been sold to a new owner.

Acting on behalf of the administrators of von Essen Hotels, Christie and Co has sold the freehold interest in Thorn Island, off the coast of Milford Haven.

Having been put on the market in July for £750,000, competitive interest was received from a number of credible purchasers, encouraging 12 bids and eventually selling to Kent Mushrooms Ltd, owners of other historical locations including the renowned Chislehurst Caves in Kent.

The new owner plans to explore the possibilities of future commercial use.

The Grade II listed fort is situated within Pembrokeshire Coast National Park in Milford Sound. It was originally constructed as one of three forts forming the outer line sea defences to protect the Royal Dockyard. Access to the island is by boat, despite its close proximity to the mainland.

The fort occupies a two-acre site, providing diverse accommodation previously operating as a hotel in the 1980s and '90s. The property has been unoccupied since its previous sale in 2000.

Simon Stevens, director of Christie and Co, said: "Thorn Island is an amazing retreat that attracted strong interest from domestic buyers, with several offers also received from overseas investors. The eventual buyer completed the deal within eight days of agreeing terms."