Major investment in stately home by events and catering services business

New life has been breathed into a stately home, securing its future, jobs and revenue for businesses, with its £1.6m acquisition by events specialist – Dine.

Grade II listed Rise Hall, near Beverley, which was acquired by company founders, Daniel and Helen Gill six months ago from TV property expert Sarah Beeny, has undergone an ambitious programme of restoration and renovation.

The Gills have secured additional funding to continue the restoration of Rise Hall, taking Dine’s investment in the property to more than half a million pounds over the next 12 months.

Extensive works have been completed, with upgrades including the creation of a brand-new bridal suite, at a cost of £35,000, and the hanging of a £5,000 striking chandelier in the entrance hall.

Also, more than £8,500 was dedicated to the installation of a Spanish marble shower in the Swift Suite.

Rise has also seen the restoration and refurbishment of its orangery and main function room. And  same project has involved restocking the 6,000-book capacity library with volumes matching the property’s Regency décor, while installing ultra-efficient heating systems, high-speed 4G connections and USB charging points throughout.

Daniel Gill said: “In restoring a near ruin to its former glories Sarah created a terrific legacy, but also set us a huge challenge; taking Rise Hall to the next level by making it one of the world’s finest luxury wedding and private hire venues – and Yorkshire’s largest for private hire.

“Our mission is to create an unforgettable, unique experience, without any compromise, for every occasion. To do this, we must lead a constantly evolving market – both staying abreast of trends challenging our own ideas, while delivering reassuring ‘high-end constants’.

“Whatever event our clients host, they expect matchless excellence in service, function rooms and bedrooms, dining and surroundings.”

He added that Dine’s investment figures will be matched every year by the £213,000 costs to maintain the 97-room mansion. And he admitted keeping it up to the high standards expected from Dine’s discerning clientele would be a never-ending process.

Helen Gill added: “It really is like painting the Forth Railway Bridge – if we were ever to reach a point of completion, it would be time to start all over again!”

The couple have added more projects to their “To Do” list, as previously untouched parts of the property are being considered for redevelopment.

First among these are the courtyard outbuildings and stables, earmarked to house agri-businesses such as smokehouses and upscale rural craft outlets, intended to create more jobs for the area.