Buildings that were formerly Youth Hostel Association Dufton in Cumbria has now been redeveloped. Entrepreneur Andy Barr’s has transformed the property into a set of boutique accommodation homes, collectively named ‘Redstones’, made possible with support from the Northern Powerhouse Investment Fund.
Redstones offers picturesque views of the marilyn (a classification of any hill over 150 metres tall) Dufton Pike and the village green within the vale of Eden village of Dufton. This new accommodation was developed and launched by Andy Barr of Barrnon Media, backed by a six-figure investment from NPIF II – FW Capital Debt Finance, managed by FW Capital as part of the Northern Powerhouse Investment Fund II (NPIF II). Additionally, the project managed to obtain a six-figure loan facility from Barclays.
The financing has revived a long-vacant property, generating local employment opportunities and providing necessary stimulation to the area’s economy. Redstones features 11 modern bedrooms alongside a lounge. Positioned within an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, Redstones straddles the Pennine Way and the Cumbria Cycle Way. It is also near the historic market towns of Appleby and Penrith.
This project marks the latest venture from local entrepreneur Andy Barr, who publishes several regional newspapers, including the Cumberland and Westmorland Herald, Keswick Reminder, and Teesdale Mercury.
Mr Barr also owns a bespoke engineering services company serving industries such as marine and agricultural, nuclear decommissioning, and oil and gas.
Mr Barr said: “From the start our aim was to regenerate a property that has been empty for some time and deliver high-quality accommodation that will attract further tourism to the area and create new jobs.
“I’m passionate about supporting local people and making a significant impact on the economy. We’re excited to have opened the doors to Redstones for guests to enjoy.
“The financial backing from NPIF II – FW Capital and Barclays has been instrumental in the successful completion of the project. Thanks to Alistair Igo at FW Capital and the team at Barclays for their valuable support.”
Alistair Igo, portfolio executive at FW Capital, added: “Andy and the team at Redstones should be very proud of their achievements.
“It is an impressive addition to the local area, providing an excellent base for visitors of all ages seeking to enjoy beautiful scenery and a range of activities. The transformation of the former YHA into high quality accommodation will boost the local economy and is a great example of how NPIF II funding can turn business ambitions into a reality.”
Sue Barnard, senior investment manager at the British Business Bank, said: “Cumbria has often faced challenges in accessing the kind of finance that helps businesses grow and thrive. Through NPIF II, we’re addressing that gap enabling ambitious local entrepreneurs like Andy to revitalise underused assets, create high-quality jobs, and deliver lasting impact in their communities. Projects like Redstones are a great example of how targeted investment can unlock potential in historically underserved areas and contribute meaningfully to the regional economy.”
Scott Davidson, relationship manager at Barclays Business Banking, said: “Barclays is proud to have played a role in the opening of Redstones and are excited to see the project come to life, creating new jobs and boosting the local economy. This lending underlines our commitment to supporting local businesses and fostering economic growth in the region, and shows our £22bn Business Prosperity Fund in action.”
