Alf and Clare Ellis are a dynamic husband-and-wife duo renowned for their entrepreneurial spirit, business acumen, and unwavering commitment to quality. With a legacy firmly rooted in the British kitchen manufacturing industry, their next chapter unfolds here at Northcote, which they officially acquired in April 2025 from The Stafford Collection.
Craig, or Mr B as he is fondly known, is director of wine at Northcote, drawing on his vast knowledge for the award-wining wine list. His personal accolades include Outstanding Achievement Award 2023 at The Hotel Catey’s and The Caterer’s Hotelier of the Year 2016. Mr B is hands on and you will often see him welcoming and chatting to guests throughout the day, ensuring his vision of the perfect Northcote experience is enjoyed by all.
Lisa Goodwin-Allen is one of the most innovative and exciting chefs in the UK today. Leading the kitchen brigade at Northcote since the age of 23 and a regular face on Britain’s TV screens, she draws inspiration from the beautiful Ribble Valley landscape to produce stunning dishes which showcase the wide range of incredible produce the region has to offer.
With eight years of experience at Northcote, Courtney brings an exceptional understanding of our people, values and the unique qualities that make Northcote so special. As Hotel Manager, she oversees the day-to-day running of the hotel, working closely with the SMT and all departments to uphold the highest standards while driving the business forward.
Felix has a wealth of experience in hospitality, having managed award-winning gastropubs and luxury venues. With expertise in leadership, customer service, financial control, and operations, he ensures exceptional guest experiences. His qualifications include wine and spirits, cellar management, and first aid, making him a highly skilled and dedicated professional committed to delivering excellence in every aspect of hotel management.
Magdalena, our Head Sommelier, works alongside Wine Director Craig Bancroft and her Sommelier team to perfectly pair each of Northcote’s dishes with a complimenting wine, and to develop our ever-evolving wine list. Magdalena is Court of Master Sommelier Certified and Advanced Certificates along with WSET Qualifications to Level Four. Magdalena is listed in the top 100 Sommeliers in the UK and was voted the Number Five Youngest Sommelier.
Robyn has grown up with Northcote, joining as a breakfast waitress over 13 years ago. She now works with our customers and clients to make their celebrations and events exactly as they wish. Her favourite part of her job? Seeing an event come together after all the planning…magical!
Part of the Northcote team for over 20 years, Stephanie joined as restaurant manager, headed up the reception team and now works alongside Robyn in the Events team. Living locally, she has lots of ideas for must-see attractions nearby and knows the best way for you to celebrate at Northcote.
Alison joined us from a big city centre hotel in 2019 and her passion to make each bedroom sparkle for our guests really shines through. You may not meet the housekeepers during your stay, but they are always working hard to keep Northcote looking its very best!
Cristian Cazacu is the Executive Pastry Chef at Northcote, working under the guidance of Chef-Patron Lisa Goodwin-Allen. Cristian leads the pastry team in crafting exquisite desserts that complement Northcote’s renowned tasting menus. His role encompasses a broad spectrum of pastry arts, from artisanal breads and afternoon teas to intricate plated desserts, all reflecting the establishment’s commitment to culinary excellence.
Dan Wynne, Cookery School Tutor| Darcy Tugwell, Cookery School Assistant | Ben Hinchliffe, Head Cookery School Tutor
Head Gardener Ciarán joined us in late 2025, with Marta following shortly afterwards. Together, they have been transforming Northcote’s existing gardens, breathing new life into every corner while laying the foundations for an exciting vision of what’s still to come.
Learn more about Northcote’s Garden Project
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