York solicitors help relocating couple achieve retirement dream to run a café in North Yorkshire

York-based Hethertons Solicitors recently supported a couple based in the US to realise their retirement dream, to run a café in North Yorkshire, with the negotiations to take over the lease and rights to run The Tea Cottage on the Bolton Abbey Estate.

The couple had been searching for a small hospitality business in North Yorkshire after deciding to relocate from the United States.

The Tea Cottage, a charming, 200-year-old tearoom with original beams and stunning views of Bolton Priory, ticked all the boxes.

Hethertons acted on behalf of Dr Robert Stephenson and Charles Hooper Junior to structure and complete the transaction involving both the purchase of business assets, including business goodwill, fixtures and fittings, and the right to operate the café, along with the negotiation of a new lease with the prestigious Bolton Abbey Estate.

Originally from Yorkshire, Robert returned to the UK after a career in science in the US. Charles is an artist and former events manager, bringing a unique creative flair and baking skills to the café.

Since taking over the business, the couple have not only expanded the menu to focus on freshly baked goods and quality lite meals – including a much-loved ploughman’s lunch – but have also introduced evening service with pizzas and drinks throughout the summer.

They have also extended the opening hours to seven days a week, added a licensed drinks menu, and begun hosting private events including weddings, anniversaries, conferences and welcoming pre-booked coach tours.

Dr Rob Stephenson, owner of The Tea Cottage, Bolton Abbey, said: “We had tried to buy three other properties before this one, but The Tea Cottage stood out immediately.

“The setting is just magical; in fact, it’s probably the best view from a café in North Yorkshire.  Hethertons were responsive, throughout, and genuinely committed to making the deal happen smoothly. We couldn’t have done this without them.”

 Charles Hooper Junior, co-owner at The Tea Cottage, Bolton Abbey, added: “We want The Tea Cottage to be a destination for delicious, freshly made food in a stunning location.

“From warm scones fresh out of the oven to a glass of wine on the patio at sunset, we’re creating something really special here. And we’re so grateful to Hethertons for helping us turn our dream into a reality.”

Jessica Roberts, Head of Corporate, and Tom Henry, Director of Commercial Property, led the deal and worked closely with the buyers in a transaction requiring clear communication and precise timing.

Jessica, said: “This was such a heart-warming transaction to be part of. Rob and Charles had a clear vision for what they wanted, and it was our job to make that possible, from negotiating the terms of the lease to securing the purchase of the business assets.

“Timing and communication were absolutely key, especially with our clients travelling between the US and the UK. We’re thrilled to see The Tea Cottage thriving under their ownership. It is definitely worth a visit.”