Big plans for Michelin-starred Northcote following change in ownership

Wilmslow-based Silkstone Finance, has acquired Northcote, the Ribble Valley Michelin-starred hotel and restaurant, for an undisclosed sum, from The Stafford Collection.

Silkstone Finance, a £104m turnover business, is the investment vehicle of Alf and Clare Ellis.

The husband-and-wife team, who also run the Pontefract-based kitchen manufacturer Ultima, are eager to begin a new and exciting chapter for Northcote.

Alf and Clare’s journey with Northcote began when they first experienced the property as guests of the annual renowned culinary festival, Obsession, more than ten years ago. Since then they have been loyal patrons of Northcote, which boasts 26 imaginative and inspired rooms.

The Ellis family has plans to expand Northcote’s legacy and create an unparalleled destination. Their vision includes a complete refurbishment of the existing spaces, in addition to a new fine dining restaurant led by Lisa Goodwin-Allen.

Alf and Clare Ellis

As part of this development the existing restaurant space at Northcote will be transformed into a more relaxed brasserie, combining the finest hospitality with a more accessible menu for both local guests and residents, while still providing a high level of service and quality.

The couple 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.”

They added: “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.”

Lisa Goodwin-Allen, the executive chef who announced her departure from Northcote in March 2025 after 23 years, will return as chef patron-director.

Lisa was a central figure in establishing Northcote’s Michelin-star status and building its reputation for excellence, but decided to take a step away from Northcote due to challenges in securing the investment required to take the restaurant further.

She said: “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.”

Craig Bancroft, managing director of Northcote, said: “We are overjoyed to have Alf and Clare Ellis as the new independent owners of Northcote. Their passion, dedication to excellence and vision for the future will be key in realising Northcote’s true potential.

“I’m particularly pleased to welcome Lisa back as chef patron-director. Having worked very closely with her for 23 years, I know our guests are going to be delighted that she’s back spearheading the next chapter.

“Her return will bring the energy and creativity that Northcote needs to keep it at the forefront of the very best of fine dining in the UK. Along with our fantastic senior management team, and the rest of the Northcote family, we are committed to ensuring Northcote continues to be an oasis of food and wine excellence with genuine and outstanding hospitality.”