Bannatyne Group acquires Yorkshire hall and health club for seven-figure sum

The Bannatyne Group has completed the acquisition of Cookridge Hall for an undisclosed seven-figure sum.

Cookridge Hall, outside Leeds, includes a health club and wedding and events venue, and is the 72nd club in the growing Bannatyne portfolio.

An old hall dating back to 1721, Cookridge Hall is located on the outskirts of Leeds between Horsforth and Bramhope. The health club offers a gym, swimming pool with sauna and jacuzzi and a licensed bar and restaurant.

The 38,693 sq ft health club was previously owned and operated by Esporta and subsequently, Virgin Active, before the health club and the adjacent golf club investments were acquired by the current owners.

Justin Musgrove, chief executive of the Bannatyne Group, said: “Cookridge Hall represents a further strategic purchase for the group as well as an exciting opportunity for us enhance both the property and member experience with targeted investment.

“Cookridge Hall is in a significant location, serving a wide area including Alwoodley, Horsforth, Otley, Ilkely and Wharfedale, and is a perfect addition to our growing portfolio.

“Its position is also ideal for one of our luxury spas and we will be planning this investment at a later stage.

“The exciting investment will greatly enhance the health club without compromising the atmosphere that members value. This is great news for everyone at Cookridge Hall and I’d like to personally welcome members and colleagues to The Bannatyne Group.”

There are in excess of 3,000 members, who will see the facilities significantly enhanced as the health club is added to the Bannatyne Group’s investment programme.

The gym floor will be totally revamped with the installation of Technogym equipment and a functional training area and the changing facilities will be completely refurbished. The addition of a brand-new Bannatyne Spa is planned at a later date.

The health club will be renamed Bannatyne Health Club & Spa Cookridge Hall and memberships will be transferred to the Bannatyne Group.

Christie & Co’s head of leisure and development, Jon Patrick, who brokered the deal concluded: “Our historic knowledge of the club and associated ownership structures enabled a discreet and confidential approach to be made with a smooth sale and purchase transition which appealed to both buyer and seller alike.”

Cookridge Hall Health & Fitness was advised by Sophie Davies and Phil Goldsborough of Shoosmiths, who acted on the corporate sale. Also to Emma Collins and Jeremy Moore of Walker Morris, who acted on the property sale.