Reading Time: 2 minutes
UK: Luxury hotel group The Stafford Collection has sold Northcote, its country house hotel and Michelin-starred restaurant in the Ribble Valley, to Silkstone Finance.
Silkstone Finance is the investment vehicle overseen by husband-and-wife team Alf and Clare Ellis. The couple run the kitchen manufacturer Ultima.
The new owners plan to refurbish the site, including the launch of a fine-dining restaurant led by Lisa Goodwin-Allen who will return to the property as chef patron-director.
The Ellis’ said: “Our vision is to build on Northcote’s outstanding reputation, taking everything to the next level by introducing innovative and memorable experiences. We are committed to enhancing the offering, with plans to launch a dedicated wellness space, allowing guests to unwind in the most luxurious setting and we will be expanding the event facilities to create versatile spaces catering to a variety of occasions.
“The goal is to transform Northcote into a true destination where visitors can indulge in world-class fine dining and unparalleled service. We want the property to be synonymous with excellence – at the very forefront of hospitality, setting new standards for what a country house hotel can be. Ultimately, we see Northcote as one of the very best and most revered country house hotels in the UK. Northcote is known not just for its remarkable history and reputation, but for continually evolving to offer a unique and unforgettable experience to every guest,” they added.
John McLean, managing director of The Stafford Collection, said: “We are incredibly proud of what has been achieved at Northcote, which will always remain an important part of our journey. As we look to the future, our focus will be on refining and expanding the experience at The Stafford London, while also exploring exciting new projects that align with our commitment to excellence.”
The sale follows the recent appointment of Michelin-starred chef Michael Caines as culinary strategist at The Stafford London. McLean added: “Our partnership with Michael Caines is a cornerstone of our forward-thinking strategy. His vision and expertise will be instrumental in shaping the future of our culinary offering and enhancing the guest experience.”
Further details on upcoming developments at The Stafford London and across The Stafford Collection will be announced in due course.
Key takeaways:
• The Stafford Collection has sold Northcote to Silkstone Finance to focus on enhancing its flagship hotel, The Stafford London.
• The Stafford London will expand its luxury offering under culinary strategist, Michelin-starred chef Michael Caines.
• Silkstone Finance, led by Alf and Clare Ellis, are planning a major refurbishment of Northcote, including a new wellness space and fine dining restaurant.
• Michelin-starred chef Lisa Goodwin-Allen will return to Northcote as chef patron-director.
