SPOTLIGHT: Garside butchers, Ambleside
Garside Butchers, a cherished family business based in Ambleside, has entered an exciting new chapter as it relocates to its own premises, following support from The Cumberland.
Run by couple Hayley Garside and Seb Butlin, the business has been part of the town’s fabric for decades. First opened by Hayley’s father, Fred Garside, in 1984, Garside Butchers has earned a loyal following by working directly with Cumbrian farmers to keep the supply chain fair, transparent and sustainable.
Reflecting on their journey, Hayley Garside co-owner of Garside Butchers, said: "We took over the family business from my dad in 2015 and it felt like a natural step, something deeply personal to us. Garside Butchers is part of our family and Ambleside, and we were proud to carry it forward."
The new premises, set to open later this year just 100 yards from the original location on North Road, will provide Hayley and Seb with the space needed to serve more customers and offer new services, including online orders, all while remaining firmly rooted in their traditional values.
Additionally, with the premises being slightly larger than their original venue, Hayley and Seb are hoping to take on more employment in the near future to further grow the businesses.
Hayley and Seb had always rented their business space, owning their own premises had long been a goal to add further security to the business. When the opportunity arose to take on a location nearby, they knew it was the right step forward for the future of the business.
Seb Butlin, co-owner, added: “We’ve always focused on doing things the right way, sourcing from Cumbrian farmers, minimising waste and buying whole animals. It’s not always the easiest option, but it’s the right one.
“Integrity is at the heart of what we do and our commitment to the community is central to everything we offer.”
Garside Butchers offers high-quality produce with a personal touch. The business has built a loyal customer base from local residents including a 90-year-old regular who has been doing her weekly shop for years, to dedicated visitors from France and the Netherlands who make a point of stopping by every time they’re in the Lakes.
Support from The Cumberland was key in making the dream of owning their premises a reality. The relationship between Garside Butchers and The Cumberland goes back years, with the couple managing everything from their business banking to their children’s accounts under one roof.
Hayley said: “What’s special about The Cumberland is that it feels like they’re part of the journey. Georgie, our relationship manager, really listened and genuinely wanted to help us succeed.”
Known for its kinder banking approach, which places people at the heart of the organisation, The Cumberland works closely with customers to provide support through real people and help them navigate any challenges they may face.
Seb added: “It was important for us to work with a lender that values people, not just numbers. With The Cumberland, we always speak to a real person who knows our business and our community.”
The deal also marks a significant milestone for The Cumberland, as Garside Butchers becomes the first business to benefit from its newly expanded commercial offering, which now includes food and drink, professional services and healthcare sectors.
The Cumberland offers services including as mortgages, current accounts and business savings accounts, delivered with its signature people-first approach by an experienced and knowledgeable team.
Within the food and drink sector, The Cumberland can now support retailers including bakeries, butchers, delicatessens, farm shops, grocers, convenience stores and specialist retailers, such as organic food shops and greengrocers. They are also able to support food and drink processors, manufacturers and wholesalers.
Georgie McRoberts, commercial relationship manager at The Cumberland, said:
“Garside Butchers isn’t just a shop; it’s a cornerstone of Ambleside. Hayley and Seb are true community champions.
“They care about every detail, from sourcing meat responsibly to serving customers with warmth and respect. We’re thrilled to have played a part in helping them take this next step and grow the family business.”
The Cumberland recently updated its commercial lending criteria to further enhance its support for businesses. The new terms see the building society increase its maximum Loan To Value (LTV) up to 70% and increase its maximum loan terms up to 25 years. In addition, the maximum individual loan size has been increased to £6 million.
These changes reflect The Cumberland’s kinder banking approach, designed to meet the evolving needs of businesses across the North of England and Scotland.
For more information on how we can support you and your business, please click here.