Michelin-starred hotel and restaurant Northcote has been sold by The Stafford Collection, as Chef Lisa Goodwin-Allen returns to the Lancashire property in a new role.

Ownership has now passed to Silkstone Finance, the investment vehicle of husband-and-wife duo Alf and Clare Ellis, who also own Pontefract-based kitchen manufacturer Ultima.

Goodwin-Allen, the property’s former Exective Chef, recently announced her departure from Northcote after 23 years, but now returns as Chef Patron-Director. She has been a central figure in establishing Northcote’s Michelin-star status and building its reputation, but decided to take a step away from the restaurant due to challenges in securing investment.

Now, the Ellis family have plans to expand its legacy with a vision that includes a complete refurbishment of the existing spaces, and a recommitment to a proposed new fine dining restaurant led by Lisa Goodwin-Allen.

As part of this development, the existing restaurant space at Northcote will be transformed into a more relaxed brasserie, combining quality hospitality with a more accessible menu.

“Our vision is to build on Northcote’s outstanding reputation, taking everything to the next level by introducing innovative and memorable experiences,” says Alf 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,” Clare Ellis adds. “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.”

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

“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,” says Craig Bancroft, Managing Director at Northcote. “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.”