Hadrian's Wall B&B 'to march on' with funding lift

A guesthouse says it is primed to check in for growth after securing funding support.

Green Croft On The Wall has unveiled plans to revamp rooms and a creative and wellbeing hub.

Bosses say the moves will “shape a distinctive rural destination that brings together accommodation, culture and wellbeing in a unique setting”.

They add it will allow the bed-and-breakfast – based on Hadrian’s Wall Path National Trail between Greenhead and Gilsland, on the Cumbria and Northumberland border – to create “high-quality” en-suite guest rooms and improve The Threshing Barn, which houses yoga, sound baths, workshops, exhibitions and cultural events. 

The blueprint follows support from NPIF II – NEL Smaller Loans, which is managed by Team Valley and Stockton-on-Tees-based NEL Fund Managers as part of the Northern Powerhouse Investment Fund II.

Amanda Drago, Green Croft On The Wall director, said: “The investment gives us the opportunity to grow sustainably and develop into a high-quality boutique accommodation offer that complements The Threshing Barn.

“NEL has been incredibly supportive throughout the process.”

Susan Snowdon, NEL Fund Managers’ investment executive, who led the deal, added: “This is a truly beautiful part of the region, and we’re incredibly fortunate to have such natural assets on our doorstep. 

“The accommodation is ideally positioned to attract walkers and visitors alike, and I’m confident it will see strong demand and return bookings.”

Operated by British Business Bank, the £660 million Northern Powerhouse Investment Fund II covers the entire North and provides loans from £25,000 to £2 million and equity investment up to £5 million to small and medium-sized businesses.

Sarah Newbould, British Business Bank senior investment manager, added: “Green Croft On The Wall shows how targeted investment can help rural tourism businesses enhance their offer and unlock sustainable regional growth.”

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