A Cumbrian couple are the new owners of a famous old Lakeland hotel which was up for sale for £1.35 million.
The Fish Inn at Buttermere has been run and owned since 1968 by Jean and John Richardson who are retiring after more than half a century there.
Now the 10-bedroom business has been bought by Mike and Abi Martin, who already own and operate Allerdale Court Hotel in Cockermouth. “We are delighted to be part of this wonderful community and look forward to working in such a spectacular part of the Lake District,” said Abi, who will continue to run the other hotel with Mike.
Besides accommodation, the Fish Inn has a breakfast room and lounge for guests along with a public bar and restaurant for around 70 people, plus a beer garden and 30-vehicle car park.
It boasts a rich literary history too, featuring in the local legend of The Maid of Buttermere, which was made into a book and a play by Cumbrian writer Melvyn Bragg. Several of the most famous walks referenced by Lakeland writer Alfred Wainwright are also nearby.
The sale, for an undisclosed sum on a freehold basis, was completed via Christie & Co, whose director Alistair Greenhalgh said: “We’re pleased to have helped Jean and John achieve their retirement and are delighted to have found local operators who will continue their legacy.
“We wish Mike and Abi every success with their new venture, which will undoubtedly make a fine addition to their growing portfolio of hotels. Hotels within the Lake District continue to prove desirable as and when they come to the market, and The Fish Inn was no exception, with multiple expressions of interest from potential purchasers.”
