Wingrove House in Alfriston, East Sussex has used a £200,000 funding package from HSBC to fully refurbish three neighbouring cottages, creating additional accommodation for up to 15 guests.
Using the six-figure finance facility, two of the three refurbished cottages have been converted into five additional bedrooms which are now linked to the main hotel, while the third has been converted into a three-bed holiday let which sleeps five people. The new properties mean the hotel can now sleep a total of 29 guests at any one time. Additionally, the owners Neil Eckert, Phil Lewin and Ben Porter have used a further £500,000 of funding to purchase an adjoining fourth property.
The colonial-style house now boasts 12 double bedrooms, which has resulted in the creation of more new jobs for the local economy. Furthermore, the restaurant at Wingrove House has been relocated and refurbished and now offers guests a beautiful lounge for relaxing and taking pre-dinner drinks. Guests can then enjoy a creative two or three course dinner, by Chef Mathew Comben (formerly of The Hungry Monk) and his team, in the stunning restaurant or elegant new private dining room.
Victoria Mutter, HSBC’s Area Director in Gatwick and East Sussex, said: “Wingrove House is a very popular destination for visitors to the area and the owners have recognised an opportunity to accommodate more guests and extend its restaurant offering, both of which will help increase revenues. We’re delighted to be able to help them realise the hotel’s potential and look forward to seeing them open the doors to new customers over the coming months.”
Phil Lewin from Wingrove House, added: “We’re really grateful for HSBC’s support which has enabled us to reach more customers through additional accommodation and facilities. Our restaurant continues to thrive under Mathew’s expert eye and with all the new room refurbishments now complete, our excellent staff are looking forward to welcoming more new guests to experience the wonderful village of Alfriston, the stunning adjacent South Downs and our unique and very special House.”