Guy’s Thatched Hamlet, located in Bilsborrow near Preston, is a remarkable hospitality destination that has long captivated visitors and guests alike with its charm and unique offerings. This historic venue draws thousands throughout the year for a variety of events, making it one of the region’s most cherished spots. The site is built around a 17th-century farmhouse that gracefully overlooks the tranquil waters of the canal, nestled within an expansive nearly 14-acre complex. The property includes a mix of modern and historical buildings covered under traditional thatched roofs, creating a picturesque setting that blends the allure of history with contemporary amenities. The interconnected layout of the complex features decking, flagstone flooring, and cobblestones, creating an inviting atmosphere that encourages exploration and enjoyment.
Accessibility is a critical aspect of the site, which includes three car parks capable of accommodating up to 200 vehicles. This expansive parking provision hints at the high volume of traffic the venue attracts daily, ensuring that visitors have a seamless experience from arrival to departure. Since the Wilkinson family took over operations in 1980, they have cultivated the property into a thriving business that not only serves guests from the local community but also attracts visitors from far and wide looking for unique experiences.
Among the establishments on the grounds, Owd Nell’s Tavern provides a traditional pub atmosphere with a seating capacity for 200 guests, offering patrons a taste of local hospitality infused with warmth. The establishment is known for its welcoming ambiance and serves a wide variety of beverages, alongside an enticing food menu that showcases the best of classic pub fare, contributing to the area’s vibrant culinary scene.
For more formal dining experiences, the Guy’s Eating Establishment specializes in Italian cuisine and also accommodates 175 diners. This restaurant is particularly popular for its authentic dishes and inviting setting, making it an excellent choice for families, couples, and friends looking to celebrate special occasions or simply enjoy a meal together. The diversity of dining options adds to the venue’s appeal, ensuring that there is something to satisfy every palate.
In addition to the dining establishments, the complex offers various function rooms ideal for celebrations, corporate events, and gatherings. The Tommy Hatton’s Function Room, which adjoins the cricket grounds, has a capacity to host 80 guests, while The Boddington Pavilion, located near the bowling green, provides another picturesque setting for events, further expanding the venue’s versatility in hosting occasions of different sizes and styles.
Central to the complex’s accommodation offerings is a converted school building, which has been thoughtfully transformed to provide comfortable and modern letting bedrooms. Connected lodges provide a cozy retreat for guests, adding a personal touch that enhances the overall experience. In addition, the Oyster Cottages, which accommodate 12 bedrooms, offer a rustic charm. This varied accommodation ensures that guests can find the perfect room that fits their needs, whether they are visiting for a weekend getaway, attending an event, or simply enjoying the natural beauty of the surrounding area.
The outdoor spaces of Guy’s Thatched Hamlet contribute significantly to its appeal. An inviting beer patio runs beside the Lancaster Canal, featuring ample seating and decking that provides visitors with the opportunity to relax, socialize, and appreciate the stunning views of the waterway. This outdoor setting enhances the venue’s ambiance, making it a prime location for summer gatherings, casual meet-ups, and special celebrations alike.
The venue is also well-known for hosting various community events that foster a spirit of togetherness among local residents and visitors. Among its notable events is the annual Oyster Festival, a weekend-long celebration filled with live music and family entertainment every September. This festival showcases the venue’s commitment to community engagement and highlights its role as a social hub in the area. As families gather to enjoy the festivities, the event not only signifies the onset of autumn but also reinforces the strong community ties that Guy’s Thatched Hamlet has nurtured over the years.
In terms of financial performance, the business has demonstrated impressive results. As of July 20, 2024, the generated net turnover reached £4,753,795, illustrating a solid trading history that underscores the popularity and viability of this hospitality establishment. With a reputation for delivering quality experiences and service excellence, it has firmly established itself as a go-to destination for both locals and tourists seeking unique and memorable experiences.
As the market evolves, the freehold of Guy’s Thatched Hamlet has now been put up for sale, attracting interest from potential buyers. The sale is subject to substantial offers, indicating the value and potential of this exceptional property. Julian Troup, Head of Hotels Agency at Colliers, expressed his enthusiasm for the opportunity, stating, “Guy’s Thatched Hamlet is a really unique hospitality business that has a strong trading history and record with local residents and visitors. It’s a stunning location, with lots of amenities within the complex which could be enhanced or developed further.”
The mention of further enhancements or developments opens the door to exciting possibilities for prospective buyers. The combination of an established business model, rich history, and beautiful setting makes this venue a prime candidate for investment and growth. With significant demand for hospitality businesses in the region, it is anticipated that interest in this opportunity will be robust. The unique character of Guy’s Thatched Hamlet, coupled with its successful operational history, provides an enticing prospect for those looking to dive into the hospitality industry or expand their existing portfolio.
The advantageous location along the canal not only enhances its aesthetic appeal but also situates it within a vibrant area that continues to thrive as a tourist destination. The proximity to local attractions allows guests to explore the rich culture and natural beauty that Lancashire has to offer, providing an added incentive for visitors to choose Guy’s Thatched Hamlet as their destination for leisure and recreation. This connection to the natural landscape enhances the experience offered and reinforces the idea that this complex is not just a place to eat or stay, but a part of a broader community experience.
As the sale progresses, there are numerous possibilities for how new ownership could shape the future of Guy’s Thatched Hamlet. Innovations in culinary offerings, marketing strategies, and event programming could attract an even wider audience, ensuring that the venue continues to thrive in the years ahead. There is also remarkable potential for further community integration, as new owners could seek to foster relationships with local organizations and introduce new events that may further deepen the connection with the community.
In conclusion, the listing of Guy’s Thatched Hamlet presents a unique opportunity for potential buyers to acquire a historic and thriving hospitality business that has been skillfully maintained and developed over the years. With its picturesque setting, rich offerings, and commitment to community engagement, this venue stands as a significant landmark in Bilsborrow. It represents not just a business, but a cherished institution that has woven itself into the fabric of local life. As it moves forward into a new chapter, the hopes of the Wilkinson family, dedicated staff, and loyal patrons merge, envisioning a future that honors the legacy of Guy’s Thatched Hamlet while embracing new beginnings. For anyone looking to invest in a dynamic and thriving business that has the potential to grow further while delighting guests for years to come, Guy’s Thatched Hamlet represents an exceptional prospect.