Lisa Goodwin-Allen returns to Northcote after its sale

Lisa Goodwin-Allen is to return to Northcote as chef patron-director following the sale of the hotel and Michelin-starred restaurant.

The chef announced her departure from Northcote last month after 23 years to “explore new opportunities”, but has now reversed her decision.

The 26-bedroom, four-red-AA-star hotel in the Ribble Valley had been on the market since 2024 and it is understood Goodwin-Allen had stepped away due to challenges in securing investment.

Northcote, which has been part of the Britannia Hospitality-owned Stafford Collection since 2019, has now been sold to Silkstone Finance, an investment vehicle run by husband-and-wife team Alf and Clare Ellis.

The couple run the Pontefract-based kitchen manufacturer Ultima and have been loyal patrons of Northcote since first dining at the Obsession culinary festival over 10 years ago.

The Ellis’ are planning a major refurbishment at Northcote including the launch of a dedicated wellness space. They will also develop a new fine dining restaurant led by Goodwin-Allen after the hotel secured planning permission last year to build a new 48-cover restaurant in its grounds.

As part of the development, the existing restaurant space at Northcote will be transformed into a relaxed brasserie with a more accessible menu for local guests and residents.

“I’m honestly so chuffed to be returning to Northcote with Alf and Clare as owners,” said Goodwin-Allen.

“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.”

Northcote managing director Craig Bancroft will continue to lead the hotel under its new ownership.

Bancroft 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."

The Stafford Collection said the sale of Northcote was a strategic decision that would allow it to focus on its flagship property, the 106-bedroom Stafford London hotel, and explore new opportunities for future growth.

The group recently appointed chef Michael Caines as culinary strategist to oversee the direction of the Stafford London’s Game Bird restaurant and American Bar, as well as the broader F&B offering.