Couple behind the UK’s first ever knitting hotel in Blackpool make huge decision over its future
Paula and Simon Chew, owners of the Westcliffe on King Edward Avenue in North Shore, are selling up after 22 years in the business.
A popular Blackpool Bed & Breakfast which shot to fame as the “Knitting Hotel” has been put on the market.
Paula and Simon Chew, owners of the Westcliffe on King Edward Avenue in North Shore, are selling up after 22 years in the business.
The hotel was originally given as a 40th birthday present to Paula, and after some initial difficulties with the business, she thought outside the box and turned the Westcliffe into the UK’s first-ever knitting hotel.
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She has never looked back, and the hotel has attracted visitors from all across the world to Blackpool and the Fylde coast.
Paula said: “After 22 years, Simon and I have decided to call it a day.
“We have made some fantastic memories, met lots of lovely people, and formed new friendships as owners of the Westcliffe.
“I am also incredibly grateful for the support my daughter, Ruth has given me over the years with the day to day running of it.”
The Westcliffe is well known in the craft world and has featured on many TV programmes including the Countryfile Diaries, local radio and the Chris Evans breakfast show as well as international travel guides.
The property has gone on the market with bids starting at £170,000.
Paula, who initially started her working life as an archaeological illustrator, said: “We are now hoping to find the right person to take the knitting hotel forward to the next chapter.
“This is a great opportunity for someone who loves all things knitting and crochet.
“Over the years, we have received many positive comments from people staying with us, and I am sure that will continue going forward. It has also been a pleasure to work with some of the other haberdashery businesses in the local area.”
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Simon and Paula won’t be moving far to begin their retirement. They plan to move just a few miles up the coast to Cleveleys.
She said: “Retiring now will mean we can spend more time with the family and enjoy the other things we like doing. I am very proud of everything we have done and achieved at the Westcliffe.”
Further details about the sale can be found at the Pattinson property website here.
Anyone wanting more information can also visit www.westcliffe-knitting.co.uk.