London couple relocate to acquire guest house in West Yorkshire village

Wilsons of Haworth, the award-winning guest house set in Haworth village, West Yorkshire, has been acquired by couple who have relocated from London.

Royal Bank of Scotland provided a six figure funding package to assist Brendan Sutherland and Josie Price in the purchase of the five bedroom boutique guest house.

Brendan and Josie have taken on the ownership of the property after building up careers in the food and hospitality industry.

Brendan was previously a chef at The Ritz, before moving on to manage the recruitment for a large hospitality brand in central London. Josie worked as a marketing manager for restaurant group, Cote Brasserie.

The duo are looking to increase the food and beverage side at the hotel by putting Brendan’s chef skills to use. Josie will adopt a marketing role, as well as working front of house and together they will share the ‘behind the scenes’ duties.

Wilsons of Haworth welcome a number of UK and worldwide tourists each year, who are attracted to this village given its association with the Bronte Sisters.

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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