Four-star guest house acquired by former chef at The Ritz

A former chef at the Ritz has acquired a four-star guest house, Wilsons of Haworth, in West Yorkshire.

Yorkshire-born Brendan Sutherland, along with Josie Price, formerly a marketing manager at restaurant group Cote Brasserie, has bought Wilsons of Haworth.

The couple moved up from London to acquire the Brontë Country site, taking ownership of the five bedroom “boutique” guest house.

The guest house has recently been named Best Hotel in the UK by Hotels Combined, under the previous ownership.

Brendan Sutherland, co-owner of Wilsons of Haworth, said: “We had dreamed of owning a hotel/guest house one day in West Yorkshire as my family reside here. It’s where I was born and grew up, so I’m delighted to be back and bringing Josie with me.

“We decided to bring our plans forward and embark on this lifestyle change at a younger age. I’m in my late 20’s and Josie’s in her early 30’s so we have plenty of passion and energy to build up the business and put our own stamp on it. Josie and I are hugely grateful for the support Royal Bank of Scotland has given us to make this first venture of ours happen.

“I’m looking forward to getting back in the kitchen and producing quality food that is locally sourced. We are already buying our meat from down the road and using local produce and products wherever possible. Over the next 12-18 months we intend to really put our business on the map by building up a reputation for fantastic food and beverage in the area.”

Andrew Matley, senior relationship Manager at Royal Bank of Scotland, added: “We are supporting many couples like Brendan and Josie who are looking to take that leap of faith into ownership and make their new venture a huge success. Bookings are looking very healthy and we wish them well as they settle into the local community and enjoy the busy summer season ahead.”

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