Northumberland businessman acquires The Ship Inn on Holy Island

The Ship Inn, a traditional coaching inn located in Marygate on Holy Island, has been purchased by Northumberland-based local businessman, Terry Maughan, for an undisclosed amount. 

The Ship Inn, which was known as the Northumberland Arms until 1995, has been on Holy Island for several hundred years and is said to be perfectly located for visiting Lindisfarne Castle, the harbour and the priory. 

The inn is also adorned with nautical artefacts, various photographs and paintings showcasing the island’s rich history and features a popular landscaped beer garden along with four ensuite guest rooms.

The sale comes as the previous owners, Andrew and Janice Hnat have made the decision to retire after owning the property for 17 years. 

It is reported that the new owner, Terry Maughan, operates several licensed and hospitality businesses across the Northumberland region, the most recent being Alnwick Squash Club and before that, The Manor House on Holy Island. 

David Cash, director in Christie and Co’s hospitality team, said: “The Ship Inn is a fantastic example of a centuries-old inn which has been incredibly well maintained by its former owners. Andrew and Janice have done a fantastic job at building the inn’s reputation as a warm, welcoming freehouse.  

Andrew and Janice Hnat, the previous owners, said: “From our very first contact with David Cash, we were most impressed with his efficiency and how he handled the sale; nothing was too much trouble.”