(Image: Supplied by Goffy Media)
A well-known North East family is preparing to celebrate four decades at the helm of a landmark hotel with a special bank holiday weekend event, bringing together old friends, loyal customers and generations of guests.
The Bradley family will mark 40 years at Hardwicke Hall Manor Hotel in Blackhall Colliery with a two-day garden party on Saturday and Sunday, August 29 and 30, filled with music, nostalgia and reunions.
The event will feature 12 live acts across the weekend, including tribute performances to Elvis, The Beatles and 70s Soul, as well as music spanning from the 60s to today.
Hardwicke Hotel, Blackhall Colliery
(Image: Supplied by Goffy Media)
Alan Bradley, who runs the hotel alongside his brother David and their wives Susan and Alison, said: "It’s lovely to hear from people who are saying they wouldn’t miss it.
"Some of them haven’t been here for a while through living away now, while others are still regulars.
"But what really makes us smile is hearing people say they’re coming because they want to celebrate 40 memorable years with us.
"That’s what this weekend is all about.
"It’s a party, it’s entertainment, but it’s also a chance for people to meet up again."
Hardwicke Hotel, Blackhall Colliery view
(Image: Supplied by Goffy Media)
Mr Bradley said the true value of their relationship with customers became especially clear during the Covid lockdowns.
He said: "When we couldn’t open, we had customers telling us how much they missed coming here.
"They weren’t just missing a meal or a night out.
"They were missing the people, the routine and the feeling of being here.
"Some actually told us they considered us friends, almost family.
"That really stayed with us because you don’t necessarily realise how important a place becomes in people’s lives until it is suddenly taken away."
He believes the loyalty and connection they’ve built with guests is at the heart of what makes Hardwicke Hall special.
He said: "People know us. They know our family and they know that when they come here they’ll see familiar faces.
"They know we’re here come rain or shine.
"That gives you a wonderful connection with people and the local community.
"They come back time and time again and over the years those customers become friends."
This spirit of friendship is expected to be front and centre during the anniversary weekend, which will bring together generations of guests for a celebration of the Bradleys’ 40-year journey.
He said: "We just want everyone to have an unforgettable time with us.
"Put the music on to create the memories, get the garden party atmosphere going and let people enjoy themselves.
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"We’re really looking forward to seeing everyone – it will be nice to see those old friends who have told us they are coming back to celebrate four decades with us."
The Hardwicke Hall 40th Anniversary Garden Party will run from 2pm to 9pm on both days.
Tickets for the two-day celebration are available by calling 01429 836 326.