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From dentistry to the Yorkshire Dales: family firm changes career to acquire camping and guesthouse business

A family firm is swapping dentistry for tourism, after snapping up a Yorkshire Dales camping and guesthouse business.

Peter and Teresa Wakefield have acquired Colman’s of Aysgarth, a 1.7-acre site set within the Wensleydale hills of Aysgarth offering boutique guesthouse accommodation, a touring caravan park and campsite, as well as residential accommodation they will now turn into their new home. The deal – completed for an undisclosed sum – represents a career change for Mr Wakefield and their son Harry, who have until now worked as dentists. Peter Wakefield will be managing the guesthouse business while his son manages the campsite operations.

Newcastle law firm Hay & Kilner LLP acted for the Peter and Teresa Wakefield on their acquisition of the business, based close to the village of Aysgarth, Aysgarth Falls and a number of walking and cycling routes. The site is set along the Herriot Way, a popular four day, 52 mile walk, which runs through the lower end of the property, and it has been recognised with several awards, including Best Certificated Site, Warmest Club Welcome and Family Friendly Site in 2019 and Warmest Club Welcome 2022 by the Camping & Caravanning Club.

Hay & Kilner’s corporate team provided legal advice on the acquisition to the couple, acting simultaneously for them in the sale of their home, which was used to part-fund the transaction.

Peter Wakefield said: “We are absolutely thrilled to be the new owners of Colman’s of Aysgarth. It’s a complete career change from our former life in dentistry but we’re looking forward to our new life in the country and welcoming guests to this beautiful part of Yorkshire. As keen motorcyclists we also hope to attract bikers in the future and offer local tours.

“Thanks to the team at Hay & Kilner for their support in allowing us the opportunity to purchase this wonderful site.”

John Morgan, partner at Hay & Kilner, said: “We are very pleased to support Peter and Teresa on both the acquisition of the business and sale of their residential property demonstrating the variety of services that Hay & Kilner can offer.

“This sale demonstrates that the hospitality and leisure sector remains buoyant and the demand for businesses in the sector continues despite the challenges around operating costs. We wish them well for their new venture providing quality accommodation for the Yorkshire tourist and leisure economy in a stunning environment.’’

David Lee of Christie and Co advised the sellers and they were represented by Ian Barker and Karolyn Scott of BHP Law.

He added: “We were delighted to help Matt and Clare Colman sell this fantastic business in a beautiful location. We wish the new owners Peter and Teresa every success with the business moving forward.”

Original artice – https://business-live.co.uk/all-about/yorkshire-humber

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