Ex-Judas Priest Guitarist K.K. Downing Plans to Build Luxury Hotel in His Garden

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Guitarist K.K. Downing, a founding member of Judas Priest, says he wants to open a luxury hotel in the grounds of his home in Shropshire, England.

Downing, who retired from Judas Priest last April, told the Shropshire Star that he plans to build a 63-room hotel, indoor swimming pool, spa and a classy restaurant on the grounds of his 320-acre estate. There's already a golf course on the grounds.

Downing, who said he has spent "most of his personal fortune" on the estate, has said he hopes the hotel will attract visitors from around the world, especially golfers.

Said Downing to the Shropshire Star:

"I am speaking to various corporations about investment and the next step is putting together all the costing of everything, which includes the golf, practice areas and purpose built clubhouse – as well as the hotel, leisure and spa facilities. I’m 60 years old now so I really want to get things completed – that’s always been the endgame."

This news comes on the heels of Paul McCartney recently announcing he'd like to run a sightseeing business in his hometown of Liverpool, England. Does this constitute a trend?

Damian Fanelli
Damian Fanelli
Editor-in-Chief, Guitar World

Damian is Editor-in-Chief of Guitar World magazine. In past lives, he was GW’s managing editor and online managing editor. He's written liner notes for major-label releases, including Stevie Ray Vaughan's 'The Complete Epic Recordings Collection' (Sony Legacy) and has interviewed everyone from Yngwie Malmsteen to Kevin Bacon (with a few memorable Eric Clapton chats thrown into the mix). Damian, a former member of Brooklyn's The Gas House Gorillas, was the sole guitarist in Mister Neutron, a trio that toured the U.S. and released three albums. He now plays in two NYC-area bands.

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