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Silkstone Finance, the investment vehicle of Alf and Clare Ellis, has revealed that it has acquired the Northcote Hotel in Lancashire from The Stafford Collection for an undisclosed sum.
Long-standing general manager, Craig Bancroft MI, will continue to lead the hotel, directing strategic investments in unison with the new ownership. Northcote was established in 1983 by Bancroft and Nigel Haworth with local businessman John Wolstenholme.
The country house hotel has 26 rooms giving guests the choice between the Manor House rooms and Garden Lodge rooms. The Garden Lodge is situated within the Northcote gardens, just across from the Manor House, with eight rooms including a master suite.
The Ellis’ vision includes a complete refurbishment of the existing spaces, in addition to a stunning new fine dining restaurant led by Lisa Goodwin-Allen. As part of this development, the existing restaurant space at Northcote will be transformed into a more relaxed brasserie.
Goodwin-Allen, the executive chef who announced her departure from Northcote in March 2025 after 23 years, will return 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.”
Goodwin-Allen added: “I’m honestly so chuffed to be returning to Northcote with Alf and Clare as owners. Northcote is a place that means so much to me and I’m over the moon to be part of the next chapter. I’ve got to know Alf and Clare well over the years and together, with the incredible team in the kitchen, front and back of house, we’ll continue to push the boundaries, offering guests an unforgettable experience and proper northern hospitality.”
The acquisition was advised by Paul Raftery, corporate partner at Weightmans, in Manchester and Chris Langrick of Langricks Chartered Accountants in Wilmslow, Cheshire.
