The County Hotel has had several identities. A new one could be on the way - as part of a huge international hotel chain.

Plans have been submitted to turn the County, at the top of Botchergate opposite Carlisle Station, into a Holiday Inn Express.

The proposals put to Carlisle City Council include "a full refurbishment of all floors to upgrade the accommodation in line with current standards".

A statement by architects ICA on behalf of owners The Cairn Group states: "The hotel will consist of 84 bedrooms including twin, double and family-sized rooms.

"Amendments to the proposed layouts will improve circulation routes around the building and improve fire escape routes."

The existing main entrance would be retained. A new rear entrance would be created for those arriving by car.

This Grade II-listed building opened in 1896 as the Red Lion Hotel.

The Boustead family owned a chain of butchers shops in Carlisle. The Red Lion was originally a tavern built as a sideline to their business.

In 1916 it came under the control of the Carlisle and District State Management Scheme.

In 1973 the scheme was abandoned and its properties were sold off. The Lion closed that year and reopened as the County Hotel.

The Newcastle-based Cairn Group has owned the County since 1999 when it rescued the establishment from receivership.

Cairn operates several Holiday Inns around the UK.

There are about 2,500 Holiday Inn Express hotels in 46 countries.

A city council spokesperson said of the County Hotel planning application: "The application is still ongoing. As it’s a listed building, more information is needed from the applicant. This is still outstanding."