Goodwin-Allen rejoins the Ribble Valley-based business now that it has passed to Silkstone Finance, which is the investment vehicle of Alf and Clare Ellis, the husband-and-wife team who also run Pontefract-based kitchen manufacturer Ultima.
The Ellises have been regular patrons of Northcote, first experiencing it at the restaurant’s annual culinary festival Obsession more than 10 years ago. The couple intend to completely refurb the property’s existing spaces as well as create a new fine dining restaurant that will be led by Goodwin-Allen.
As part of this development, the existing restaurant space at Northcote will be turned into a more relaxed brasserie.
Goodwin-Allen announced her departure from Northcote in March after 23 years at the restaurant, stepping away due to challenges in securing the investment required to take it further.
“Our vision is to build on Northcote’s outstanding reputation, taking everything to the next level by introducing innovative and memorable experiences,” say Alf and Clare Ellis.
“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.
“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.”
Discussing her return, Goodwin-Allen says: “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 adds: “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 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.”
