Firms To Watch: Hospitality and leisure

Commercial property specialist Claire Haley joined the team at Eversheds Sutherland (International) LLP in September 2024, bolstering its hospitality and leisure offering.
Keystone Law‘s practice was bolstered in June 2024 with the arrival of hospitality and ESG-focused commercial real estate specialist Nadia Milligan.
Hotel and leisure specialist Nick Skea-Strachan established Wordsmith Law LLP‘s hospitality and leisure team following his September 2024 arrival at the firm.

Hospitality and leisure in London

Bird & Bird LLP

Bird & Bird LLP‘s team has ‘a grasp of the industry that sets them apart’. It has well-established capabilities assisting well-known clients in complex national and international matters. ‘One of the most sought-after professionals in the sector,’ Karen Friebe helms the practice and harnesses expertise in the remit of complex transactions, advising hotel clients from budget to luxury end on key acquisitions, developments and disposals, as well as in the negotiation of hotel management agreements. Also well-equipped to handle the transactional side is May 2025 arrival Simon Price. Matthew Vance is experienced advising on collateral impacts of the Covid-19 pandemic, including force majeure, terminations and closure agreements, while James Fowler specialises in negotiating management and franchising agreements. Franchising across the food and beverage sector, in particular, is an area of focus of both Graeme Payne and Megan Harrison. James Salford departed in April 2025.

Responsables de la pratique:

Karen Friebe


Autres avocats clés:

Matthew Vance; James Fowler; Graeme Payne; Megan Harrison; Simon Price


Les références

‘They are naturally very experienced and specialists in the sector, with significant tenure within the field and a detailed knowledge of the business. What I find sets them apart is their grasp of the industry, their flexible thinking style, and their ability to come up with solutions and workarounds that can be adapted to suit the required outcome.’

‘I find them an excellent sounding board and they offer realistic advice.’

‘Karen Friebe and Matthew Vance are the most approachable and clear-speaking legal representatives I have dealt with, and there have been a lot.’

‘They listen, adapt and offer options and alternatives. When preparing correspondence, they consider the tone of an individual and strength of message, which I find most helpful. Sound yet approachable legal advisers.’

‘Strong focus on the hospitality and leisure sector and many years of experience.’

‘Karen Friebe has years of sector experience and focus. Hugely knowledgeable. One of the most sought-after professionals in the sector.’

‘Deep knowledge and understanding of the hospitality sector. Resourceful and devoted to learning how a business operates to provide targeted advice.’

‘James Fowler is trusted, reliable and affable, with an engaging personal style and ability to condense complex topics into manageable points for clients to provide feedback on.’

Principaux clients

Belmond


Cadogan Estates Limited


Compass Group plc


Costa Coffee


PizzaExpress Restaurants Limited


Pret a Manger


Nando’s


Gecko Development Corporation


ECM Partners


Pass the Keys Ltd.


Principaux dossiers


  • Supporting Belmond by managing over 750 trade marks worldwide, with 65 active disputes across the world.
  • Advised hospitality recruitment company Gecko Development Corporation on expanding its franchise operations from the US to the UK, which includes work on localising its US franchise documentation for the UK market, related tax advice and advice on compliance with UK/EU data protection laws.
  • Advising ECM Partners in relation to its development plans for the “Wyndham Grand Novi Vinodolski Resort” property, which it acquired out of an insolvency process.

CMS

The team at CMS is well-versed in handling a broad array of matters, including high-value and complex real estate transactions. Thomas Page ‘has unparalleled experience in hotel transactions’ and heads up the practice alongside David Roberts. Page acts for some of the team’s best-known investor, operator and banking clients on major hotel portfolio transactions, while Roberts has expertise advising restaurant sector clients in particular. Ian McGarr is a name to note for his specialism in hotel financing, while James Miller is equipped to handle manage-back and lease-back transactions as part of his practice. ‘Exceptional’ private equity and corporate finance specialist Louise Wallace acts for well-known clients in significant and frequently cross-jurisdictional transactions, from handling M&A deals to negotiating hotel management and franchise agreements. Michelle Kirkland and Nick Crosbie are also noteworthy practitioners in the group.

Responsables de la pratique:

Thomas Page; David Roberts


Autres avocats clés:

Louise Wallace; James Miller; Ian McGarr; Josie Hearnden; Michelle Kirkland; Nick Crosbie


Les références

‘Industry knowledge that is second-to-none combined with a focus on understanding each client’s needs and some excellent minds make CMS the go-to adviser in this sector.’

‘The CMS team doesn’t just have a deep knowledge of the subject matter and great insight into their clients’ needs, but they are also fun to work with and feel like an extension of your in-house team.’

‘Breadth and depth of the hotel team is exceptional. Great knowledge and attention-to-detail.’

Dentons

The practice at Dentons is well-regarded by clients for its ‘standout client service and industry knowledge’; its workload includes assisting in the remit of complex and high-value transactions for household clients. Simon Masri specialises in assisting clients in a wide variety of hotel and leisure matters, in both domestic and overseas contexts. Masri oversees the practice alongside Matthew Tinger, who is experienced in advising well-known international hotel clientele on significant portfolio transactions, from purchases and sales, to reorganisations. The co-leads are supported by Phoenix-based practitioner Rick RossLaura Gowing‘s practice includes advising investors, lenders and developers in key transactions. Babette Märzheuser-Wood is a franchise agreement expert, while handling commercial real estate transactions and advising on related finance issues are Christopher Foxall‘s areas of specialism.

Responsables de la pratique:

Simon Masri; Matthew Tinger; Rick Ross


Autres avocats clés:

Laura Gowing; Babette Märzheuser-Wood; Christopher Foxall


Les références

‘Matthew Tinger and Simon Masri are commercially sensitive and extremely knowledgeable, and this is a formidable combination of skill which in negotiations has consistently proven its benefits.’

‘The team focuses on the deal and gives the client confidence that they are managing the details within the deal. The commercial strategy is robust and demonstrates the ability and value of the team.’

‘Client service and industry knowledge are standout.’

Principaux clients

KSL Capital Partners


AJ Capital


Arora Group


Hotel Exe Limited


HSBC Bank plc


VUR Village Properties Limited


Room Mate Hotels


Malmaison


Kindred Concepts Limited (F1 Arcade)


Wagamama


Principaux dossiers


  • Advised on the sale by affiliates of KSL of hotel owner, operator and developer Village Hotels (consisting of 33 hotels) to funds managed by Blackstone Real Estate.
  • Advised on the sale of a worldwide hotels brand to Hilton.
  • Advised on the acquisition of a hotel from Starwood Capital.

Taylor Wessing LLP

Taylor Wessing LLP‘s team is well-placed to assist its varied client roster on the full range of high-stakes hotel and leisure transactions of significant value. Richard Bursby helms the group and advises private companies, ultra-high-net-worth individuals, families and entrepreneurs in the breadth of international corporate and commercial transactions. Key practitioners in the group include real estate specialist Mark Rajbenbach and Edward Story, who handles various global hospitality projects and advises on management and franchise agreements, joint ventures and co-investment projects as part of his practice. Victoria Butcher advises investor and operator clients on real estate-related work from acquisitions and disposals to investment sales and purchases. ‘The individuals are outstanding at every level,’ according to clients.

Responsables de la pratique:

Richard Bursby


Autres avocats clés:

Mark Rajbenbach; Victoria Butcher; Edward Story


Les références

‘The team works harmoniously together, with a good mix of different personality types and communication styles, which gives them flexibility in key live negotiations and problem-solving to overcome potential issues.’

‘They are creative in their optioneering and tirelessly iterate to achieve a beneficial position for their client.’

‘You always get representation and engagement with strong senior, mid and junior level support.’

Principaux clients

ACCOR SA


Alrov Group


Belmond


CC Land and MARK


Crosstree Real Estate Partners


Market Halls


Our Habitas


PPHE Hotel Group


RBH Management


Reuben Brothers


Sodexo Live


SunVenture


Unibail-Rodamco-Westfield


Yotel


Principaux dossiers


  • Advised the Reuben Brothers on a suite of agreements with Aman, Mandarin Oriental and Rosewood as part of the Esencia project with a gross development value of $2bn.
  • Advised on a joint venture between CC Land and MARK on the £180m sale of the luxury Six Senses Hotel, London to Italian real estate investor Gruppo Statuto.

Addleshaw Goddard

The offering at Addleshaw Goddard is experienced assisting such well-known clients on an array of complex matters, from development, branding and operations issues to large-scale multi-jurisdictional portfolio transactions. The Leeds-based Lucy Sturrock has hotel sector expertise that spans advising on management agreements, acquisitions and developments. Catherine Williams handles development and investment work in particular. Zoe Maurer advises lenders and borrowers on the finance aspects of transactions. Luke Baines leads the team and has a specialism in the range of hotels work, including advising clients on incorporating ESG principles into key documentation.

Responsables de la pratique:

Luke Baines


Autres avocats clés:

Zoe Maurer; Fran Sepulveda; Katie Ridehalgh; Kirsty Nicholson; Lucy Sturrock; Josh Gibbons; Neil McGibbon; Catherine Williams


Les références

‘Zoe Maurer, Fran Sepulveda and Katie Ridehalgh all provide a top-level work product, and they invest in understanding their clients.’

‘Addleshaw Goddard are astute, commercial, and most importantly, work at pace in order to deliver for their clients.’

‘Understanding the client’s needs, going above and beyond, and pre-empting commercial issues before they arise.’

Principaux clients

A&O Hostels


Aldar Properties PJSC


Amazonico


Arada Developments LLC


Aviva


B&B Hotels


Battersea Power Station Development Company


CBRE IM


Coya


F45 and Club Sports Group


Hwadi


Kai Yuan Holdings


Langosteria Group


Lifestyle Hospitality Capital Group


Norlake Hospitality


North Brewing


OakNorth Bank plc


Palm Holdings


Popeyes


Room Mate Hotels


Room2 Hotels


Santander


Sonder


Staycity Aparthotels


SWIM!


THAT Group


The City Pub Group plc


Thesleff Group


Tim Hortons UK


Travelodge Hotels Limited


Ultimate Performance (UP)


Vue Entertainment Limited


Yum Brands!


Zuma


Principaux dossiers


  • Advising on branded residence agreements where hotels or lifestyle brands provide services and cache to residential developments often sitting within luxury resorts, including a project on Palm Jumeirah.
  • Working alongside Travelodge on a £210m acquisition of a portfolio of 66 hotels.
  • Acted for Thesleff Group on all legal services requirements as well as executive board strategy support.

Baker McKenzie

The practice at Baker McKenzie has a workload that incorporates the range of finance and transactional matters of substantial value. Justin Salkeld oversees the cohort and has a specialism in real estate cases. Sebastien Marcelin-Rice advises both sponsors and lenders in high-value real estate finance transactions in cross-jurisdictional European financing and refinancing matters. Ben Farnell is noteworthy for his planning and development capabilities, as well as his work in sustainability-related real estate matters.

Responsables de la pratique:

Justin Salkeld


Autres avocats clés:

Sebastien Marcelin-Rice; Ben Farnell


Les références

‘The team has been our regular law firm for decades.’

Principaux clients

Britannia Hospitality


Davidson Kempner European Partners LLP


Edwardian Group


Fattal Hotels Group


Marriott Inc.


Roundshield


Blue Water Capital


King Street


Principaux dossiers


  • Advised Edwardian Hotels in the sale of a one-of-a-kind portfolio of Central London freehold hotels to the American private-equity firm Starwood Capital Group in an off-market transaction.
  • Advised Blue Water Capital (London) Limited in its role as arranger on all aspects of the financing of Tower Suites by Blue Orchid Hotels – a premium real estate hotel asset in a prime central location (Tower Bridge, London).
  • Advised a client on a first-of-its-kind branded residence redevelopment financing.

Bryan Cave Leighton Paisner

The team at Bryan Cave Leighton Paisner is formed of ‘genuine experts in the sector’ whose workload is formed of high-value, broad-ranging cases. ‘Great leader’ Laura Wild is a real estate expert who is experienced advising hotel clients on acquisitions and disposal, development, financing and leasing matters, amongst others. The ‘absolutely incredible’ Hannah Westcott is also recommended for her real estate capabilities. From the Manchester office, Taslima Salam handles real estate finance matters, acting for clients from government institutions and clearing banks, to corporate borrowers and developers. Charlotte Tullis handles the remit of commercial and residential property transactions, while Jeremy Bark is considered a ‘good financing specialist’ by clients.

Responsables de la pratique:

Laura Wild


Autres avocats clés:

Charlotte Tullis; Hannah Westcott; Jeremy Bark; Nazir Dewji


Les références

‘Hannah Westcott has helped us negotiate two restaurants in the UK – she’s absolutely incredible. Always very responsive, extremely polite even when actors in the deal lose their cool, and explains the issue in a very understandable manner. Always crystal clear. It’s very soothing and reassuring to have her on a deal.’

‘The team is stable, and they are all versatile and can cover for each other. They are completely up-to-date on the changing precedents and legislation of property law.’

‘Laura Wild is a great leader, Hannah Westcott an able deputy, and Jeremy Bark a very good licensing specialist.’

Principaux clients

Jeremy King Restaurants


Resolution Property


One Investment Management


The Crown Estate


Tristan Capital


Grosvenor


Deliveroo


Principaux dossiers


  • Advised Jeremy King Restaurants on London’s new high-end restaurants, Arlington, The Park and the iconic Simpson’s in the Strand.
  • Advised major global asset management company One Investment Management on the £127m acquisition of two UK holiday parks
  • Advised Grosvenor on the sale of part of South Molton in Mayfair to EIH London Investments Limited, which will be home to the Indian luxury hospitality group’s first Oberoi Hotel in the UK.

Clifford Chance LLP

The group at Clifford Chance LLP has capabilities assisting its clientele with a broad range of hotel and leisure-related transactions, both domestic and cross-jurisdictional in scope. The team is able to handle real estate transactions, including the development of substantial tourist developments overseas, sales and acquisitions, as well as finance and investment aspects of significant deals. Alis Pay co-heads the offering alongside Sarah Thomas; Pay has expertise advising international investors on pan-European portfolio transactions, while Thomas is experienced, handling high-value corporate real estate transactions and advising on hotel management agreements. Cross-border transactions specialist Andrew Carnegie and European real estate finance expert Emma Matebalavu are other key names to note.

Responsables de la pratique:

Alis Pay; Sarah Thomas


Autres avocats clés:

Andrew Carnegie; Emma Matebalavu; Angela Kearns; Barry O’Shea; Ian Painter


Principaux clients

Ares Management LLC


Mohari Hospitality


Rothesay Life Plc


Corinthia Hotels


Cale Street


Sadler’s Wells Foundation


Cedar Capital Partners


Cheyne Capital


Shangri-La Hotels & Resorts


The HongKong and Shanghai Hotels Limited


Bank of America Europe DAC


Principaux dossiers


  • Advised Ares Management Real Estate Secondaries funds (Ares) on its joint venture with Cedar Capital Partners and on the European Hotel Portfolio recapitalisation by the joint venture.
  • Acted for Cheyne Capital as lender on the £525m refinancing of four Leonardo/NYX Hotels in London.
  • Advised Mohari, a global investment platform focused on opportunities in the luxury lifestyle sector.

DLA Piper

The practice at DLA Piper is well-versed in handling the remit of ultra-high-value national and international hotel and leisure deals for its client portfolio, which is formed of owners, investors, operators and financial institutions. Its workload is composed of sales and acquisitions, large hotel investment deals, multi-jurisdictional hotel deals, financing and debt financing matters, amongst many others. The Leeds-based Matthew Duncombe, who is equipped to handle high-stakes deals, helms the team alongside Jo Owen, who assists on cross-jurisdictional and complex transactions. Rob Salter has extensive experience handling corporate matters, and Toby Barker is noteworthy for his real estate finance expertise.

Responsables de la pratique:

Matthew Duncombe; Jo Owen


Autres avocats clés:

Rob Salter; Toby Barker; Milena Falciano-Padron


Les références

‘Great people.’

‘Extensive network. Able to find experts in the most esoteric of fields or geographical locations.’

‘Matthew Duncombe is extremely experienced and very personable. Great to deal with. Always able to bring in expert lawyers in all fields to help with issues.’

‘Significant experience in the hotel industry, specifically re: hotel management agreements for both brands and owners, allowing them to understand the desired positions of both parties as it relates to the key commercial terms.’

‘Matthew Duncombe is extremely knowledgeable and responsive.’

Principaux clients

Hyatt International Corporation


Hung Yen Investment and Development


Merlin Entertainment


Marriott International


InterContinental Hotels Group


Blackstone


KKR


Aareal Bank AG


Revolution Bars


Motel One


Principaux dossiers


  • Advising Blackstone Real Estate on the acquisition of Village Hotels, a hotel owner, operator and developer, from affiliates of KSL Capital Partners.
  • Advising KKR and a joint venture comprising KKR’s vertically-integrated European hospitality platform Amante Capital and The Baupost Group, on its acquisition of a portfolio of 33 Marriott International hotels across the UK from a subsidiary of the Abu Dhabi Investment Authority (ADIA).
  • Advising Hung Yen Hospitality on its collaboration with The Trump Organization. The venture will focus on developing 5-star hotels, championship-style golf courses, and luxurious residential estates and unparalleled amenities in Vietnam.

Hogan Lovells International LLP

Hogan Lovells International LLP‘s offering is experienced in assisting well-known clients with cross-border transactions as well as national transactions, relating to the full range of real estate and related finance cases. Katie Gill helms the team and has extensive experience handling hotel-related domestic and cross-border real estate finance matters, including investment, refinancing and corporate financing cases, and related disputes. Jackie Newstead has noteworthy abilities acting for owners and operators in the breadth of complex transactions. Janan Kanagaratnam‘s practice includes assisting hotel clients with acquisitions and developments of substantial value, as well as franchise and management agreements, as well as assisting pub and restaurant clients with a range of cases.

Responsables de la pratique:

Katie Gill


Autres avocats clés:

Jackie Newstead; Janan Kanagaratnam


Les références

‘Katie Gill’s industry knowledge representing borrowers stands out.’

Principaux clients

AFC Wimbledon


Archer Hotel Capital


British Land


Carte Postale Investment Limited (Beaumier Hotels)


Hilton


HSBC


ICG


Kings Cross Central


KSL Capital


KW Holdings Co Limited


Landsec


Leonardo Royal


M&G Real Estate


Novum


Patron


Related Argent


Valor Hospitality Partners


Westmont


Principaux dossiers


  • Advised LandSec on the sale of its entire hotel portfolio to Real Estate funds managed by Ares Management alongside operating partner EQ Group.
  • Advised a client on the English law aspects of the refinancing of its existing financing arrangements for a mixed-use scheme in Copenhagen, Denmark, comprising a hotel, retail unit and residential units.
  • Advised a client on its investment in Newmarket Holidays, a UK-based escorted tour operator offering international group holidays to the affluent over-50s traveller market.

Paul Hastings LLP

The team at Paul Hastings LLP is well-equipped to advise its portfolio of clients on the remit of real estate and related finance matters relating to the hotel and leisure sectors, including handling all aspects of joint ventures, M&A deals, fund investment work and operation and management matters. Michael James leads the group and is experienced advising European clients on high-value hotel deals, including advising on structure and handling transactions, often in cases where multiple jurisdictions are involved. The ‘outstanding’ Stephen Nicolas' practice includes sales, leases, management and franchise agreement-related matters in cross-border contexts.

Responsables de la pratique:

Michael James


Autres avocats clés:

Stephen Nicolas


Les références

‘I consider Paul Hastings as partners with valuable insight who provide strategic advice that enables us to mitigate risks before they actualise and drive business further.’

‘Quality of individuals, intellectual horsepower, work ethic and attention-to-detail are all great and really differentiate and put Paul Hastings in a different class to other law firms.’

‘Stephen Nicolas is our go-to partner and consistently provides high-quality, insightful advice, tailored to our specific needs.’

Principaux clients

Starwood Capital


Yianis


PineBridge Benson Elliot


A&O Hostels


Goldman Sachs


TPG


Highgate Hotels


Omnam Group


RB Capital


Sixth Street Capital


Lenox Investments


Cerberus


Aroundtown


Klarent Hospitality


Henderson Park Capital


Bain Capital


GHIG


Principaux dossiers


  • Advising Starwood Capital on the acquisition of ten hotels in prime locations in central London.
  • Advised Henderson Park & Hines, the international private equity real estate firm, alongside global real estate investor and developer Hines in connection with the sale of Grand Hyatt Athens to funds managed by Blackstone Real Estate.
  • Advising Starwood Capital on the disposal of 3 premier assets located in central London to Pandox.

Burges Salmon LLP

The collective at Burges Salmon LLP is adept at assisting its clientele in various cross-border matters, including managing the sale, financing and refinancing aspects of portfolios of hotels. The trio at the helm includes Rupert Weston and Richard Read, who split their time between London and Bristol, and Robert Forman, who is based in Edinburgh. Weston is experienced advising international hotel clients on matters ranging from openings to sales and acquisitions; Read has expertise in real estate investment; and Forman assists on the remit of hospitality-related transactions. Also in Bristol is real estate finance specialist Katie Allen.

Responsables de la pratique:

Rupert Weston; Richard Read; Robert Forman


Autres avocats clés:

Katie Allen; Matthew Sims; Will Hall


Les références

‘My experience of the team is one of them dealing with matters with a relaxed, efficient calm, and just getting things done.’

‘They’ve built relationships with our broader team that are into their second decade – can’t think of a better reflection on what they do and how they do it.’

‘Richard Read and Katie Allen are excellent. In detail, available and easy to work with.’

Principaux clients

Abu Dhabi Investment Authority


Henderson Park


Pandox AB


Virgin Hotels


Starwood Capital


Robuchon Restaurants


Darwin Alternative’s Leisure Property Fund


The Perth Hunt Club


YTL Hotels


Zetland Capital


Andrew Brownsword Hotels


London & Regional


Atlas Hotels


Hamilton


Tristan Capital JV


Native Places


Numa UK


Portobello Pub Company


Principaux dossiers


  • Advised a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Abu Dhabi Investment Authority (ADIA) in relation to the sale of its portfolio of 33 UK Marriott International hotels to a joint venture between KKR and The Baupost Group.
  • Advised Henderson Park on the £490m refinancing of five Scottish hotels in its 13-hotel portfolio, which include the Caledonian and the Hilton Edinburgh Carlton.
  • Advised Virgin Hotels on the successful opening of its first London hotel, Virgin Hotels London Shoreditch, in the heart of one of London’s most vibrant neighbourhoods.

Fieldfisher

The group at Fieldfisher has a varied workload and is headed up by Paul Houston, who is well-regarded for his ‘excellent client service and industry-specific knowledge’. ‘Exceptional commercial lawyer’ David Wilkinson is noteworthy for his expertise in handling significant M&A transactions for well-known hotel clients. Ramatu Banga has extensive experience handling a range of cases for clients across sectors, including hotels, restaurants, wine bars, tennis and padel tennis centres, and retail stores. David Bond is equipped to advise on franchise structures in both domestic and international contexts, while Kate Lias handles investment and occupational portfolio management matters.

Responsables de la pratique:

Paul Houston


Autres avocats clés:

David Wilkinson; David Bond; Ramatu Banga; Alex Campbell; Kate Lias; Vicky Reinhardt; Philip Watkins


Les références

‘I have worked with Paul Houston who has excellent client service and industry-specific knowledge.’

‘Exceptional response times to urgent matters. They have a good understanding of EOTs, which is becoming increasingly of interest to our client base.’

‘David Wilkinson is an exceptional commercial lawyer with extensive experience of the UK travel industry, which is what our firm specialises in. We have used him as a partner lead on a significant number of transactions in the last 12 months.’

Principaux clients

Al-Seef Tourism Investment LLC


Ambassador Cruise Line


BlackRock


Booking.com


Capricornus


Coffee-Bike International Limited


CoCo Fresh Tea & Juice


Creams Café Limited


Cynergy Bank


Dominus Group


DWS


EasyHotel


EL&N International


Expedia, Inc


FRA LAN RB 26-28 GMBH & CO. Kommanditgesellschaft


GHG London Holdings


Haulfryn Group Limited


Millenium & Copthorne Hotels


Secret Escapes Limited


Serani Hotels


Silk (Maxwell Street) Limited


Smith Global Limited


The shareholders of Cruising Excursions Limited


TDA Capital


Vastint Hospitality B.V


Viacom


MTV


Principaux dossiers


  • Acting for Dominus Group on numerous hotel and PBSA developments, including the development and forward funding of a large development site at the former Hammersmith Magistrates’ Court in London for a Premier Inn Hotel and large student housing scheme.
  • Advised the client on a £33m refinancing of the acquisition of Fort Dunlop, a mixed-use asset in Birmingham owned by EPISO3, who were advised by pan-European real estate investment manager Tristan Capital Partners.
  • Advised the client on the £1bn redevelopment of the Whiteleys Shopping Centre in Bayswater, London.

Fladgate LLP

Fladgate LLP‘s team has capabilities advising clients on loan facilities, financing, refinancing, and sale and acquisition matters, amongst others. James Fry is a commercial real estate specialist with expertise in the hotel and leisure sectors. Stephen Lewis handles landlord and tenant matters, and acquisitions and disposals in both freehold and leasehold contexts for clients in the retail and leisure sectors in particular. Eddie Powell has expertise in hotel-related contractual cases, while debt finance specialist Gary Smith ‘goes that extra mile’ for clients. Fry and Lewis co-helm the team.

Responsables de la pratique:

James Fry; Stephen Lewis


Autres avocats clés:

Gary Smith; Nick Wood; Eddie Powell


Les références

‘Partner-led and good at working through a project efficiently and without the need for chasing, they provide regular updates.’

‘Gary Smith handles our bank refinancing and always goes that extra mile to get a deal over the line – his tenacity and work ethic is very well-respected and appreciated.’

‘The team at Fladgate works hard to support us in buying and selling of hotels, including Nick Wood.’

Principaux clients

London & Regional Properties


Investhor Limited


MDS Hospitality


Chopstix Group


Marylebone Lane GP Co Limited


Kaya Tourism Group


4C Hotels


YOO Capital


Cara Hotels


Principaux dossiers


  • Advised London & Regional Properties (L+R) on a senior sterling term loan facility to refinance its Atlas Hotel portfolio, which includes around 59 hotels across England and Scotland.
  • Advised Marylebone Lane GP Co on the £300m refinancing of BoTree Hotel, the luxury hotel in Marylebone.
  • Advised Kaya Tourism Group, part of Kaya Holding Inc, on its acquisition of the Great Northern Hotel in London’s King’s Cross.

Goodwin

Goodwin‘s practice is able to assist its roster of clients, the list of which features well-known hotel clients, with the full array of high-value real estate transactional matters. Advising on the sale of a portfolio of hotels located in multiple jurisdictions, on complex purchase and leaseback agreements, and on joint ventures are all examples of cases that feature in the team’s workload. It also advises its clientele on the full array of documentation cases. Well-regarded for his ‘incredible, in-depth industry knowledge,’ Matthew Pohlman leads the group. Martin Smith is a name to note with experience in acquisitions, dispositions, management, and branding cases.

Responsables de la pratique:

Matthew Pohlman


Autres avocats clés:

Martin Smith; Ray Fang; Tinyan Asemota


Les références

‘What truly sets them apart is the hands-on involvement of partners and their attentiveness to their clients.’

‘Matthew Pohlman has incredible in-depth industry knowledge and works hard to achieve the aims of his clients. He is an extremely skilled negotiator and someone you can completely trust to understand and achieve your business’s requirements.’

‘Depth of experience and level of professional service stand out.’

Principaux clients

Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts


Caesars Entertainment Corporation


Oaktree Capital Management


RoundShield Partners LLP


TPG Angelo, Gordon


Crossroads Real Estate


Firmdale Hotels


Cairn Hotel Group


Masterworks Development Corporation


Away Resorts


Leeu Collection


Avington Financial


Castello SGR


VIC Properties


Principaux dossiers


  • Advised the client on the sale of a portfolio of Hoxton and Mama Shelter branded lifestyle hotels across UK, Netherlands, Italy and Czech Republic to entities owned by Ares Management Real Estate Secondaries fund and Cedar Capital Partners.
  • Advised the client, alongside its joint venture partner, on the purchase and partial leaseback of the British Broadcasting Corporation’s Elstree Studios site in London.
  • Advised the client on behalf of its managed-fund on the formation of a joint venture, which has entered into a contract to acquire the YouFirst Campus student accommodation portfolio in France from Gecina.

Katten Muchin Rosenman

Katten Muchin Rosenman‘s group is headed up by Gavin Vollans, who is well-regarded for his capabilities advising on the broad array of matters in relation to the hotel sector, in particular, including real estate investment, finance, asset management, development, landlord and tenant issues, and portfolio management. Management agreements, sales, and development cases also feature in the team’s workload. Finance and luxury retail are focus areas of Terry Green, while Rhodri Peece specialises in the breadth of commercial real estate matters. Peter Sugden departed in February 2024.

Responsables de la pratique:

Gavin Vollans


Autres avocats clés:

Terry Green; Martyn Strong; Rhodri Peece


Principaux clients

RE Capital


Stay at Mine Ltd


Leonardo Hotels


Fattal Group


Aprirose Real Estate Investment (Aprirose)


Bob W Technologies Ltd


Principaux dossiers


  • Advised RE Capital in its 74,000 sqft hotel-led mixed use re-development project.
  • Advised Stay at Mine Limited on a number of matters in respect of it entering into management agreements securing serviced apartments across London.
  • Advised a pensions trust on the sale of Travelodge at Windsor House, Pepper Street, Chester (CH1 1DF) for £11.5m, which was conditional upon final defects being completed.

Macfarlanes LLP

The practice at Macfarlanes LLP is well-regarded by clients for its ‘unwavering commitment to client service’. Its workload is formed of high-value and frequently cross-jurisdictional matters, including portfolio management, joint ventures, fund and property acquisitions, sales, and financing. The team is co-led by corporate and M&A practitioner Justin Hope and specialist in real estate Victoria Hills, who joined the team in October 2024. Noteworthy names include ‘standout’ practitioner Will Hedges, real estate finance specialist Laura Bretherton, and commercial real estate specialist Nick Barnes.

Responsables de la pratique:

Justin Hope; Victoria Hills


Autres avocats clés:

Howard Corney; Laura Bretherton; Will Hedges; Nick Barnes; Colin Morgan


Les références

‘The main strength is the people and the team. Macfarlanes stands out for its exceptional blend of technical excellence, commercial awareness, and a truly collaborative culture. The firm’s multidisciplinary teams work seamlessly across departments, offering clients a level of integrated advice that is both strategic and deeply informed.’

‘What distinguishes Macfarlanes is its consistent ability to deliver bespoke, high-quality solutions on complex, often cross-border matters, while maintaining a personal and partner-led service that clients highly value.’

‘Breadth and depth, combined with a strong emphasis on continuity and long-term client relationships, which ensures that Macfarlanes not only meets but often anticipates client needs. The firm is also at the forefront of innovation.’

Principaux clients

Alchemy Special Opportunities


Cedar Capital Partners Limited


Claridge’s Hotel Limited


EQ Hotels Limited


EQ Group


Ritz Hotel (London)


Rocco Forte Hotels


The Berkeley Hotel Limited


The Connaught Hotel Limited


Twenty14 Holdings


Waldorf Astoria, Doha


Westmont Hospitality Group


Principaux dossiers


  • Advised Cedar Capital Partners on the recapitalization of European Lifesyle Hotel Portfolio with Ares Management.
  • Advised Alchemy in connection with a €92m financing of a joint venture established between Alchemy and STEP Partners to acquire a portfolio of hotels in Belgium.
  • Advised a private equity firm on the acquisition of Amber Taverns by one of its advised funds.

Norton Rose Fulbright

Norton Rose Fulbright‘s offering is well-equipped to assist on matters of development, redevelopment, property management issues, and M&A matters. Wasim Khan leads the team and acts for developers, investors, financiers, and occupiers on a broad array of work. Financing-related hospitality and leisure matters are Dan Kennedy‘s specialist area, and Sarah Cullen has experience in financing, with debt financing, acquisition, investment, and development matters featuring in her workload. Emily Colville‘s workload includes advising on the development of a portfolio of luxury hotels.

Responsables de la pratique:

Wasim Khan


Autres avocats clés:

Dan Kennedy; Sarah Fitzpatrick; Chris Randall; Sarah Cullen; Emily Colville


Les références

‘The individuals are warm and friendly.’

Principaux clients

Bank of Brunei


ABN Amro


BAWAG Group AG


Maybourne Hotel Group


PPHE Hotel Group (Park Plaza)


British Racing Drivers Club Limited


Battersea Power Station


Emirates NBD Bank (P.J.S.C) London Branch


777 Partners LLC


AIG


57 Whitehall S.à.r.l.


A Premiership Football Club (name is confidential)


Al Faisal Holding


United Overseas Bank and Bangkok Bank


Yoo Capital


HSBC UK Bank plc


Olympus Property Holding Limited


Standard Chartered Bank


Hotchkiss Limited


Al Dau Development


The Grange Festival


Principaux dossiers


  • Advised the project company on the continued redevelopment of the Old War Office in the heart of political London.
  • Advising the owner of a £300m+ hotel on all asset and property management arrangements with the hotel operator, Marriott, and the M&Ms retail tenant, Mars.
  • Advised Olympus Property Holding Limited on the continuing £1.5bn London Olympia redevelopment scheme, which will transform the iconic 133-year-old venue into a premier destination for the arts, entertainment, exhibitions and events and comprise two new hotels, as well as a cinema, theatre space, a performance centre, offices, retail, restaurants and the existing exhibition space.

Pinsent Masons LLP

The team at Pinsent Masons LLP is experienced in assisting its varied roster of clients on a broad array of real estate and financing transactions. Team lead Claire Hughes harnesses extensive experience handling complex development and investment matters. The Birmingham-based Danielle Clifford handles strategic commercial contracts for hotel and leisure clients, and Leo Parkington also handles such contract matters for hotel, football stadiums and catering clients, amongst others, and is based at the same office. Former team lead Nick Skea-Strachan departed the group in September 2024.

Responsables de la pratique:

Claire Hughes


Autres avocats clés:

Jon Blackburn; Danielle Clifford; Leo Parkington


Les références

‘I find them very responsive.’

‘I find the partner I work with to have good industry knowledge, which means we can tailor our requirements more quickly when lending into this sector.’

‘We have dealt with Claire Hughes over the years and she is a real asset to the company. Very professional, approachable and knowledgeable.’

Principaux clients

MH (No 1) Limited Partnership


Merry Hill Retail and Leisure Centre


The Hope Lease Limited


KOKO


Rhubarb Hospitality Collection


Native Places and Numa Group


The Jockey Club


Kew Green Hotels


Premier Inn / Whitbread


Miral Experiences


Calton Living Apartments


The Portman Estate


Legal & General Leisure Fund


Oxford United Football Club


Christie and Co


Activum SG


Lavender WT Limited


Cycas Hospitality


Oxford Properties


Oxford Jersey Holding Company Limited


Accor Hotel Invest


Melia Hotels Group


Principaux dossiers


  • Advised the Merry Hill Consortium in relation to strategy, planning and asset management in respect of one of the largest leisure & retail complexes in the UK, located near Dudley, West Midlands.
  • Advised Oxford United Football Club in relation to all legal matters concerned with the development of its new football stadium, surrounding real estate and infrastructure.
  • Advised The Jockey Club, a large racecourse group in Britain owning over 15 racecourses with c5,000 acres of training grounds and a property portfolio, in relation to the development of hotels at a number of its racecourses, commencing with a 150-bed hotel at Cheltenham racecourse and a 120-bed hotel at Warwick racecourse.

Shoosmiths LLP

The group at Shoosmiths LLP harnesses expertise in advising owners, developers, funders and contractors on significant hotel developments; assisting on leisure schemes and related redevelopments; and advising restaurants and bars on various issues. Leeds-based practice head Richard Symonds has considerable hotel sector experience, which includes advising on commercial, employment and regulatory matters in particular. Real estate finance specialist James Salford joined the team in London in April 2025.

Responsables de la pratique:

Richard Symonds


Autres avocats clés:

James Salford


Les références

‘Always available with a great knowledge of the sector and a problem-solving outlook.’

‘Nothing is an issue for the positive team.’

Principaux clients

Marston’s PLC


Tingdene Holiday Parks Limited


Travelodge Hotels Limited


Infinium Logistic Solutions Limited


McDonald’s Restaurants Ltd


AEW Europe


Downing LLP


The Third Space


Property Alliance Group and Starwood Capital Group Joint Venture


Nikal Limited


Buckland Capital Limited


Arora Holdings Limited


Roomzzz and the Park Lane Group


Krispy Kreme (UK) Limited


Pizza Hut (UK) Limited


Vastint BV


Marston’s PLC


Crown Golf Course


Premier Inn (Whitbread Group PLC)


StayCity


The Other House


The Restaurant Group


Eurogarages


Revolution Bars Group PLC


Lamington Group


Principaux dossiers


  • Acting on London acquisitions for The Third Space Group.
  • Acting for Premier Inn in connection with a number of acquisitions and extension across its  hotel portfolio.
  • Advising Travelodge Hotels Limited on its portfolio, from real estate, to procurement to regulatory advice.

Watson Farley & Williams LLP

Watson Farley & Williams LLP‘s offering is headed up by the ‘outstanding’ Felicity Jones, who has expertise across the range of corporate and M&A cases and harnesses particular expertise handling various matters relating to individual hotels and portfolios of hotels in the EMEA region. Barry Hembling is a name to note in the team for his abilities in advising hotel and leisure clients on significant construction and development projects. Matt Buxton is particularly active on M&A, joint venture and corporate deals relating to hotels, hospitality and infrastructure, and Thomas Newlyn is also recommended. Richard Hughes departed in January 2025.

Responsables de la pratique:

Felicity Jones


Autres avocats clés:

Barry Hembling; Matt Buxton


Les références

‘Very efficient and has a good negotiating style.’

‘Barry Hembling does a really good job simplifying complex negotiations and helping them to be resolved and agreed upon very efficiently.’

‘A very personal service, they make you feel like they are part of your team, not simply professionals advising. They also have depth, and they always fit into the situation as they’ve clearly been well-briefed.’

Principaux clients

Atogarden


Formby Hall Hotel and Golf Resort


Willow MezzCo


ASB Development Limited


KE Hotels


Millennium Hotels and Resorts


One One Hospitality 1 Limited


PM29 Real, Unipessoal Lda


Zaha Hadid Architects


Principaux dossiers


  • Advising on the £70m+ sale of a five-star luxury Shoreditch hotel to an expanding Swiss private equity fund.
  • Advising Atogarden Ltd in relation to the development, opening and operation of a creative high-end Korean barbeque restaurant and brand.
  • Providing construction law advice for a number of hotels within the Millennium Hotels and Resorts portfolio.

Charles Russell Speechlys LLP

The team at Charles Russell Speechlys LLP is equipped to advise food and beverage, hotel, and hospitality clients on a range of matters. The trio at the helm consists of Michael Powner, who handles matters for some of the team’s most well-known multi-national clients, commercial specialist Jason Saiban, who acts for key sports sector clients, and Lee Medlock, whose workload includes advising on sales, purchases, and development projects.

Responsables de la pratique:

Michael Powner; Jason Saiban; Lee Medlock


Autres avocats clés:

Janine Regan; Caroline Greenwell; Ben Butterworth


Les références

‘The team at Charles Russell Speechlys is exceptional.’

‘The service is always thorough and well-presented with a pragmatic and commercial approach, often set alongside advice which allows us to fully consider our options prior to taking action.’

‘Very friendly and down-to-earth even when explaining complex commercial matters.’

Principaux clients

Stonegate Pub Company Limited


Cote Restaurants Limited


Caffe Nero Group Limited


Howard de Walden Estates Limited


Value Retail


David Lloyd Leisure Limited


Gulf Air


HX Travel Group


Dorchester Hotel Limited


St George Property S.a r.l.


Kate Bingham Interior Design Limited


K-West Hotel London


Brasserie Bar Co


Dorchester Hotel Limited


Principaux dossiers


  • Advised Caffe Nero’s across all commercial contracts work.
  • Acting for the Dorchester Hotel Limited in relation to construction matters.

Clyde & Co

Clyde & Co‘s group is well-equipped to assist clients in the hospitality sector with matters such as management contract negotiations, construction and development investments, and purchases. The team is led by Simon Vere Nicoll, who has experience advising clients on reorganisations, M&A, investments and fund structuring in hospitality and leisure contexts. Described by clients as a ‘first port of call for hotels practitioners throughout the UK,’ Peter Sugden is another noteworthy member of the team.

Responsables de la pratique:

Simon Vere Nicoll


Autres avocats clés:

Peter Sugden; Ben Neville; Craig McAdam


Les références

‘Our first experience has been a good one.’

‘They have the industry experience and ability to find and propose alternative solutions to potential deal hurdles.’

‘Ben Neville is worthy of particular mention in respect of a very protracted transaction in which he provided advice and guidance over an extended period in a pragmatic and proactive manner.’

Forsters LLP

Forsters LLP‘s practice is equipped to handle acquisitions, sales, asset and franchise agreements, and financing matters, amongst others, for hotel sector clients in particular. Ben Brayford oversees the offering and handles the array of such work. Naomi Trinh is a key practitioner whose work includes advising owners, operators, family offices and high-net-worth individuals on contractual arrangements, acquisitions and disposals and asset management.

Responsables de la pratique:

Ben Brayford


Autres avocats clés:

Naomi Trinh; Simon Collins; Alexandra Townsend-Wheeler


Les références

‘Outstanding, collaborative approach.’

‘Reliable and trustworthy. All team members are friendly and responsive.’

Principaux clients

Limestone Capital


Manex Properties


Knight Dragon


Bespoke Hotels


Queens Rd W2


Hazlitt’s Hotels


CC Land


72 Group


Netflix


Warner Bros.


McDonald’s


Principaux dossiers


  • Acted for Limestone Capital on its acquisition of the five-star luxury Nobu Hotel in Shoreditch for an undisclosed price.
  • Acted for Manex Properties on the purchase and redevelopment of Drury House in Covent Garden.
  • Acted for Knight Dragon in connection with its Greenwich Peninsula development – a 150 acre regeneration scheme with a project value in excess of £8.4 billion, which will deliver 17,500 homes.

Freeths LLP

The team at Freeths LLP‘s client roster features hotels, restaurants, coffee shops and breweries, amongst others. Overseeing the team are Christopher Ainsworth, who is particularly adept at handling acquisitions, disposals and complex development projects; Leo Skinner, who advises operators of various licensed premises with the remit of issues and is noted for his ‘huge experience of property transactions’; and hotel sector transactional expert Heather Davies. Skinner and Ainsworth are Milton Keynes-based, while Davies works from Nottingham.

Responsables de la pratique:

Leo Skinner; Heather Davies; Christopher Ainsworth


Autres avocats clés:

Lisa Gilligan; Natalie Drought; Selina Norris


Les références

‘Freeths have a deep understanding of the hospitality and leisure sector.’

‘They have extensive experience in property transaction matters, due diligence and commercial expertise.’

‘I’ve always found them to be responsive, thorough, but also pragmatic when it comes to the legal aspects of property transactions.’

Principaux clients

The Big Table Group Limited


Travelodge Hotels Limited


BKUK Group Limited trading as Burger King


The Restaurant Group Limited


Euro Garages Limited


De Vere Hotels


Neos CC Stim UK Holdco Ltd


RedCat Pub Company


Oakman Inns and Restaurants Ltd


Bistrot Pierre


Davys of London (Wine Merchants) Limited


Red Oak Taverns


Liberation Group


Butcombe Brewery


Punch Taverns


Admiral Taverns


Hawthorn Leisure


MacManus Pub Co


Rileys Sports Bars


WH Brakspear and Sons Limited


Wells & Co


NEC Group


Leon


The Gym Group


Brewhouse and Kitchen


Bakers & Baristas UK Limited


D&D London Group


Revel Collective


Skyside Trading Limited


Karali Group


Liberty Bar and Restaurant Group


Principaux dossiers


  • Advised the Liberty Bar and Restaurant Group on the complex, high value and extremely accelerated pre-pack acquisition of the business and assets of TGI Fridays, an iconic American casual dining chain, saving over 2,000 jobs and more than 50 restaurants across the UK.
  • Advised Red Oak Taverns Limited on the acquisition of 19 tenanted pubs from Marstons PLC.
  • Advising The Big Table Group Limited on the property aspects of its acquisition of The Restaurant Group’s leisure division including Frankie and Benny’s and Chiquito.

Glovers Solicitors LLP

Glovers Solicitors LLP‘s group is able to assist its clients, the portfolio of which includes cinemas, pubs, and bars, amongst others, on a range of real estate matters and transactions. Its workload includes acquisitions and property management work in particular. Philip Shotter heads up the team and has expertise handling the range of such cases; Shotter, John Barber and Paul Jagger are noted as ‘giants in their field’ by clients.

Responsables de la pratique:

Philip Shotter


Autres avocats clés:

John Barber; Paul Jagger; Andrew Nicklinson; Paul Dench; Naana Binfoh


Les références

‘A first-class boutique firm that has expertise in planning, licensing and conveyancing. It provides a one-stop shop for new and existing operators.’

‘They have an impressive list of clients.’

‘Philip Shotter and Paul Jagger head up their licensing team and between them provide a first class service. Philip has a very good commercial background. Paul is an expert in licensing and planning law. I am always impeccably briefed by them.’

Principaux clients

ASK Italian Restaurants Limited


BDL Restaurants Limited


Boule Bar Limited


Club Mexicana Limited


Deep Blue Restaurants Limited


Dishoom Limited


Everyman Media Limited


Franco Manca 2 UK Limited


Farmer J Limited


Flat Iron Steak Limited


Holding Bam UK Ltd


HWH Restaurants Holding Limited (Atis)


Jamie Oliver Restaurants


Lina Stores Limited


Lane7 Ltd


McMullen and Sons Limited


Nando’s Chickenland Limited


Nightcap PLC


Noble Rot Limited


Oaxaca Restaurants Limited


Pizza Express Restaurants Limited


Prezzo Trading Limited


State of Play Hospitality Group


Superbowl UK Group


The Real Greek Food Company Limited


Wagamama Limited


ZLC London Limited


Zizzi Restaurants Limited


Principaux dossiers


  • Acting for Nando’s Chickenland on the acquisition of twelve new restaurants, including at Peterborough; Forestside, Belfast; Northampton and Tunbridge Wells.
  • Acting for Everyman Media Limited on the acquisition of two new cinemas on the former Olympic Village in Stratford and at The Whiteley, Queensway.
  • Acting for Farmer J for all of its property work in its continued expansion in London including sites in Hammersmith, Marylebone, Bloomsbury and Farringdon.

Hamlins LLP

The group at Hamlins LLP, noted for its provision of ‘concise and expert advice’, is known for its capabilities assisting clients in the leisure, cinema and hospitality sectors in particular. Ben Kilshaw oversees the offering and is experienced advising on sales, acquisitions and lettings, and transactional construction matters. A key member of the group is Stephanie Brown, who handles the negotiation and documentation aspects of commercial property transactions.

Responsables de la pratique:

Ben Kilshaw


Autres avocats clés:

Martin Ochs; Lauren Twidale; John Leasure; Stephanie Brown; Matthew Pryke


Les références

‘A friendly and helpful team. They provide clear advice and take into account commercial/business requirements and provide alternative solutions where possible.’

‘Martin Ochs and Lauren Twidale understand our business very well and work with us to implement business needs whilst adhering to legislation.’

‘Hamlins have always provided concise and expert advice in a prompt manner.’

Principaux clients

Adventure Leisure


Burhill Group


Diamond Resorts


Hamilton Pyramid Europe


Hilton Grand Vacations


Hilton Worldwide


Katlist Limited


INKD


Lane7


LEON Restaurants


Marriott Vacations Worldwide


O Bar


Pizza Pilgrims


Pizza Union


Park Plaza Hotels


PPHE Hotel Group


Powerleague


Rosa’s Thai


The Light Cinema


Principaux dossiers


  • Advised British independent cinema chain The Light on its sale to private equity firm, Risk Capital Partners (property aspects).
  • Acted for Pizza Pilgrims on the leasing of various new restaurant sites in London and a site in Cardiff as part of its ongoing expansion.
  • Advised independent cinema chain The Light on a new 90,000 sq ft cinema and leisure development at the former House of Fraser department store in the Kingsgate Shopping Centre in Huddersfield.

Harbottle & Lewis LLP

Harbottle & Lewis LLP‘s team’s workload is formed of advising on a variety of property, financing and IP matters, and related disputes. Restaurant sector specialist Tim Parker co-leads the team alongside Sandi Simons, who has expertise handling contractual and tortious disputes.

Responsables de la pratique:

Tim Parker; Sandi Simons


Autres avocats clés:

Agatha Claridge; Melanie Benson


Les références

‘Agatha Claridge has supported us very efficiently with a knowledge of IT in the UK that is worth praising.’

‘They are very adaptable in bringing other experts from other fields. They are also very pragmatic and deliver very quickly.’

‘They are a pleasure to work with and are the ultimate experts when it comes to advising tech companies.’

Principaux clients

P&O Cruises


Arch Light Cinemas Limited


Kentucky Fried Chicken (Great Britain) Limited


Maybourne Hotels Limited


Luxury Hotel London


Virgin Atlantic Airways


Principaux dossiers


  • Advised a client on its $130m growth financing raise; it was multi-faceted, involving debt financing, security arrangements in respect of the entire F1 Arcade group (inc. US).
  • Advised a client on a day-to-day basis, on all aspects of advertising and marketing, IP clearances, consumer law compliance, Ts&Cs, and competitions.

Howard Kennedy LLP

Retail and leisure specialist Lydia Christie and Anthony Hunt, who specialises in hotel acquisition and disposal matters as well as asset management and franchising, co-head the team at Howard Kennedy LLP. Hunt is also equipped to handle significant international deals for restaurant clients. Employment, IP and immigration issues feature in the team’s workload, as well as those relating to real estate.

Responsables de la pratique:

Lydia Christie; Anthony Hunt


Autres avocats clés:

Shattik Shaheen; Adam Walford


Les références

‘Shattik Shaheen is incredibly knowledgeable and resourceful.’

‘An ability to translate complex legal matters into simple, understandable terms, which is very comforting as a client.’

‘They fill you with confidence in their ability and are trustworthy – you can leave things in their hands.’

Principaux clients

Burger King


Pizza Hut


PureGym PLC


Ping Pong


Tortilla PLC


Prezzo


White Rabbit Projects


Padella


Michels and Taylor


Lina Stores


Principaux dossiers


  • Advised Burger King on the roll out of its UK expansion programme and its estate management.
  • Advised IP Topco Ltd (a subsidiary of White Rabbit Projects LLP) on the purchase of the well-known health food restaurant chain Island Poké via a pre-pack administration sale.
  • Acting for PureGym on all real estate matters including on its ambitious roll-out programme.

Lewis Silkin

Lewis Silkin‘s team advises its roster of clients, well-known across leisure, retail and hospitality, on a range of matters relating to employment and IP. The team also advises on significant hotel ventures. The ‘brilliant’ Anna Sella heads up the team alongside Alan Hunt, who handles commercial contracts, IP and tech transactions. Former co-head Julia Poulter departed the practice in September 2024.

Responsables de la pratique:

Anna Sella; Alan Hunt


Autres avocats clés:

Laura Farnsworth


Les références

‘Staffed by experienced senior colleagues. The service generally of everyone I have encountered at Lewis Silkin has been excellent.’

‘I feel like they really take the time to understand the business you are in.’

‘Anna Sella in particular is brilliant – accommodating, flexible, prompt and a great sounding board as well as technical legal adviser. She has really got to grips with our business and understands it and tailors her advice accordingly.’

Principaux clients

Cineworld


Ascot Racecourse


Secret Garden Party


Pillar Wellness


The British Fashion Council


Skyscanner Ltd


Hawksmoor Restaurants


Pizza Express Restaurants


Stanley Dock / Titanic Hotel


Britannia Hotels


Principaux dossiers


  • Advising a client on its internal AI policy and governance, including the use of generative AI tools.
  • Assisting a client with patent fillings in beverage dispensing technologies, including “smart” and touchless dispensers, and the use of AI technologies.
  • Acting for a client in respect of its global trade mark expansion of the flat iron family of trade marks, together with policing and enforcement of those trademarks.

Quastels LLP

Quastels LLP‘s cohort is experienced assisting clients across the restaurant, theatre, hotel and pub sectors, amongst others. Sales, restructurings, commercial contracts, fund structuring and asset management-related matters all feature in the team’s workload. A ‘true leader who gives the airship overview of the sector,’ Adam Convisser co-leads the offering alongside global mobility specialist Jayesh Jethwa and commercial real estate practitioners Naomi Jones and Mark Cornelius.

Responsables de la pratique:

Adam Convisser; Jayesh Jethwa; Naomi Jones; Mark Cornelius


Les références

‘The team was extremely knowledgeable, patient, and took us through the details of complex scenarios. They presented us with numerous options to resolve the issues we were having.’

‘We have used Quastels numerous times and they can always find a commercial solution to sometimes complex problems, not just looking at the legal ramifications but the commercial ones as well.’

‘One of the standout features of Quastels is the diversity within their team – not just in background, but in experience and perspective. This diversity enhances their ability to handle complex, cross-disciplinary issues with nuance and agility.’

Principaux clients

INCA


Served App


OH MY Group


BNW Food LTD


Chinawhite


Grey Wolfe


44 Group


Ballerz


Fumar


NVSE Limited


Venchi


Island Poke


Fantuan


Twist Museum


Innjoy Stay


Collection Consulting Ltd


Principaux dossiers


  • Acting on the sale of a prestigious luxury hotel for over £5m.
  • Acting for an overseas company in taking a £5m lease at a prominent London landmark for the purposes of interactive experiential events.
  • Acting on a corporate restructure of an award-winning restaurant group.

Ronald Fletcher Baker LLP

The practice at Ronald Fletcher Baker LLP is headed up by Simon Lawrence, who is experienced advising hotelier clients on various matters, and new co-head Deniz Oguzkanli, who clients ‘would recommend without hesitation’. Rebecca Roberts is noteworthy for her expertise advising clients in sale, acquisition and business portfolio planning matters in particular. Former co-lead John O’Callaghan departed the team in March 2025, as did Paul Cain.

Responsables de la pratique:

Simon Lawrence; Deniz Oguzkanli


Autres avocats clés:

Rebecca Roberts; Ali Choudhry


Les références

‘We had a great experience working with Ronald Fletcher Baker LLP. They were easy to reach and responsive, which made the entire process smooth and stress-free.’

‘Their team provided practical, down-to-earth advice that was directly applicable to real-world challenges, helping us navigate complex legal matters with confidence.’

‘We highly recommend Ronald Fletcher Baker LLP to anyone in need of reliable and insightful legal support.’

Principaux clients

Glasshouse Asset Management


The Dominvs Group


Habib Bank AG Zurich


Cranfield Investments Limited


Comptoir Libanais


Keystone Holdings Limited


Ganco Limited


Criterion Capital


Efes Restaurant Group


Principaux dossiers


  • Acted for Efes Restaurant Group, a prominent Turkish restaurant chain, in its long-term expansion programme in the UK.
  • Acted for Habib Bank in a re-finance of an 85-bedroom hotel, a Holiday Inn, valued at £24.5m.
  • Advised Criterion Capital on injunctive relief and planning matters involving retail sites.

Stevens & Bolton LLP

‘Top-class performer’ Helen Wheddon helms the Guildford-based offering at Stevens & Bolton LLP, which is well-regarded for its abilities advising on portfolio strategy matters, insolvency-related issues and the range of hotel-related cases, in particular. Wheddon is a real estate disputes specialist, while Nicola Broadhurst is experienced advising on commercial expansions, with a client list that features well-known names in casual dining, amongst others.

Responsables de la pratique:

Helen Wheddon


Autres avocats clés:

Nicola Broadhurst; Kerry Garcia


Les références

‘They have always delivered for us in a timely fashion. They have been helpful and always gone the extra mile for us.’

‘The partner we can mention is Helen Wheddon. Top-class performer in all aspects of our work.’

‘They respond very fast to every inquiry, they are looking for the best solutions and provide the client with non-standard solutions.’

Principaux clients

Fuller Smith & Turner plc


Immersive Group Gaming Ltd


MomoIP LLC


Time Group Holdings Ltd


Romansleigh Developments Ltd


WRP Wellness Ltd


Principaux dossiers


  • Acted on several different commercial contract matters for Fuller Smith & Turner, the owner of 380 Fullers pubs, in relation to its restaurant arrangements.
  • Acted for a landlord on a regeneration project, including a theatre, with a community focus.
  • Acted for WRP Wellness Limited, who are part of the White Rabbit Hospitality group, with the completion of an investment into its new innovative health and wellness concept, ARC, based in Canary Wharf.

Trowers & Hamlins LLP

The practice at Trowers & Hamlins LLP harnesses expertise advising on hotel sales and acquisitions, and on operational and technical service agreements. Overseeing the team are Ayda Habboush, who handles real estate M&A for hotel and hotel alternative clients, Julien Allen, who ‘delivers excellent outputs’, Yassar Jassani, who assists restaurateurs, hoteliers and developers on institutional investment matters, amongst others, and David Cordery, who is experienced advising both developers and operators in domestic and international contexts.

Responsables de la pratique:

Ayda Habboush; Julien Allen; Yassar Jassani; David Cordery


Les références

‘Very responsive to our needs and introduces relevant colleagues as required.’

‘Good industry knowledge combined with expert legal advice.’

‘Julien Allen has great working relationships, knows his client, engages well and delivers excellent outputs.’

Principaux dossiers


  • Acting for a client on the acquisition of the historic Royal Clarence in Exeter Cathedral Yard, which is now set to be restored to its former glory with work starting nine years after the hotel was ravaged by fire in 2016.
  • Acting for a client on its mixed-use hotel and offices development in the heart of Clerkenwell EC1.
  • Advising a client on the property and construction law elements of the transformation of 15th century pub, the famous Eagle and Child, in the heart of Oxford, a favourite of writers J.R.R. Tolkien and C.S. Lewis.