The tranquil banks of the River Ouse in Bishopthorpe, just a few miles south of York city center, have become home to a newly transformed Riverfront York. Formerly known as the Boatyard, the site has undergone a significant renovation and rebranding under the ownership of Kerrie and Phil Cook, who completed a full takeover last December.
This transformation has elevated the site from a simple restaurant to a comprehensive “stay-play-and-dine destination” for visitors. The relaunch included an upgrade of Bosuns, the on-site restaurant led by MasterChef The Professionals chef, Kurtus Andy, adding a touch of culinary excellence to the experience.
Riverfront York now boasts an array of amenities. These include a 25-pitch caravan park, six refurbished cabins, and a children’s play area. For those seeking relaxation, the site offers a cafe bar, pizza oven, and even a beauty salon.
One of the aspects of the transformation is the introduction of river-based activities. Visitors can now enjoy boat hire services, allowing them to explore River Ouse. For boat owners, Riverfront York has also introduced mooring services offering essential amenities.
The site-wide transformation has focused on more than visitor amenities. The Cooks also invested in essential infrastructure improvements, including upgrades to the caravan park facilities, flood defense enhancements, and better access for disabled customers.
The expansion of the site has a positive impact on local employment. It now employs 30 local people in full-time and part-time roles, contributing to the local economy. Furthermore, there are plans for additional recruitment in the coming months, with Riverfront York planning partnerships with local colleges to offer catering department training programs.
Looking ahead, the owners have plans for additional developments in 2025. These include enhancements to the shower and toilet block and updates to the electrical systems, ensuring that Riverfront York remains a modern destination for years to come.
At the relaunch event, owner Kerrie expressed her enthusiasm for the project, stating, “We are thrilled to unveil the new and improved Riverfront York. Our goal is to create a destination that celebrates the beauty of our surroundings, while offering unparalleled experiences for our guests,” Kerrie said, as reported by York Mix.
Featured image by Riverfront York via theriverfrontyork.co.uk.