Strands Hotel and Screes Inn acquired by entrepreneur and former barman
Two neighbouring 18th century inns set in one of the Lake District’s most iconic locations are set for an exciting new chapter following a change of ownership.
The Strands Hotel and Screes Inn in Nether Wasdale, Cumbria, are popular with Lake District visitors seeking authentic hospitality, traditional ales, and locally produced spirits.
The venues, along with the adjoining Strands Brewery and Distillery, have been acquired from the previous owners by Strands and Screes Holdings Limited, led by managing director Dave Keeler.
Dave formerly worked at The Strands Hotel in his early 20s when his godmother owned the hotel in 1980s. He went on to build a career within the hospitality sector that has spanned the past 40 years leading hospitality operations in the UK, Canada, USA and Bermuda.
Harrison Drury’s specialist leisure sector team helped to oversee the transaction with corporate, commercial property and employment advice all being provided. Christie & Co served as the business agents, and NatWest provided funding for the purchase.
The acquisition includes the freehold of the premises, which sit on opposite sides of the road and David has expressed a strong commitment to preserving and enhancing the reputation these establishments have built over the years.
With 10 staff currently employed, David plans to significantly increase the size of the business over the next few years, creating new employment opportunities and bolstering the local economy.
Plans are underway to make significant upgrades to both sites, further developing the potential of the on-site brewery and distillery while preserving the charm and community connection that has made the properties a staple of the local tourism economy.
Dave Keeler, managing director of Strands and Screes Holdings, said: “The acquisition marks a heartfelt return for me. My godmother owned The Strands Hotel in the 1980s and when I came to visit in 1982 for what was meant to be just two weeks, I ended up staying for two years, working behind the bar and falling in love with the place, the area and the people.
“We’re excited to take forward the legacy of these iconic venues. This effort is not just about restoring the buildings but also about rekindling a tradition of community care and hospitality that once helped the village earn its place as one of Cumbria’s most beautiful hamlets.”
Harrison Drury’s corporate team on the transaction was led by partner Jack Stephenson. Roger Spence, partner in the employment and HR team, and Amanda Marwood, partner in the commercial property team, also advised.
Jack Stephenson, partner in Harrison Drury’s corporate team, added: “It’s been a real pleasure to support David on this acquisition which secures a bright future for these two much-loved venues.
“The transaction required close coordination between our teams with various services being provided and this is what makes our leisure sector team so well placed to advise leisure and hospitality businesses. It’s always rewarding to work on projects that combine business ambition with a passion for preserving unique local heritage – especially with David’s local connections.”