Husband and wife duo restore ‘historic’ North Lincolnshire bed and breakfast

After lying empty for two years during the COVID-19 pandemic, Olivers Guesthouse in Scawby was purchased in March 2022, and is undergoing renovation, by an “ambitious” North Lincolnshire couple searching for a retirement venture.

Olivers Guesthouse, located in Scawby, was purchased by husband-and-wife duo Sue Fawcett and Gary Fawcett in a bid to move closer to their three sons.

Sue, who previously has previous experience in banking and the food manufacturing industry as an office manager, will now manage the B&B with the support of her husband who works as a kitchen and bathroom designer.

The guesthouse formerly operated as a B&B for 30 years, and prior to that served the local community as the post office and general store. It retains many original features from its 17th-century history as a coaching inn, which Susan seeks to maintain.

Sue applied for a kickstart grant from UKSE, a local investment company that provides finance of up to £1.5m to growing companies, as well as providing support for start-ups, which granted them the financial boost needed to speed up renovations.

Opening soon, the B&B will seek to attract visitors to the region, including families, wedding guests attending St Hybalds Church, and visitors for Hibaldstow Skydiving Club’s annual competitions.

Reflecting on the venture so far, Sue commented: “When we visited the property we fell in love with it immediately, we knew there was a lot of work required, and that we would not be able to re-open for at least year, but seeing the final result has made it nonetheless worth it!

“We are incredibly grateful for the grant from UKSE which has gone directly into the refurbishment of the property. Over the next year we hope to be able to generate sufficient income from the business to allow my husband to retire, and eventually recruit to support the operation of the B&B.”

Steve Lyon, area manager at UKSE, added: “We are thrilled to see the hard work and dedication put into the renovation of Olivers Guesthouse, whilst still retaining its proud history. Congratulations to Susan and Gary on their new venture, and we wish them all the best for the future.”

By Matthew Neville – Senior Correspondent, Bdaily

• Add me on LinkedIn and Twitter to keep up to date
• And follow Bdaily on Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn
• Submit press releases to editor@bdaily.co.uk for consideration.

Looking to promote your product/service to SME businesses in your region? Find out how Bdaily can help →