Family-run York hotel Middletons acquired by pubco Thwaites

The 56-bedroom hotel is spread over six historic buildings, and claims to be the second biggest single property inside the old York City walls, after the York Minster. It was previously owned by the locally-based Clark family.

Its acquisition takes the Daniel Thwaites portfolio to 16 hotels and inns, and is the second site in York for the company, after the Georgian-style inn Judge’s Lodging.

The Blackburn-based company was first founded in 1807 as a brewery, and first moved into the hotels industry in the early 1980s. As well as hotels and inns, it also runs pubs alongside the ongoing, historic brewery and craft beer business.

Middletons is set to be the first in a series of opening from the group in the coming months, including the Crown Inn in Pooley Bridge, The Royal in Heysham, and the Lodge at Solent near Southampton.

“Middletons is an outstanding property in a stunning location and has a fascinating history,” says Rick Bailey, chief executive officer at Thwaites. “The Clark family has built up a unique asset over many years, with a wonderful local reputation and huge character.

“It is a well-run business and York is a strong market. We are delighted to have been able to acquire it and look forward to continuing to develop it over time.”