Tingdene Group has expanded its UK marina network with the acquisition of Farndon Marina near Newark, its first location on the River Trent. The move adds more than 300 berths to the group’s national portfolio and brings the number of marinas under its management to 11.
Situated with access through Nottinghamshire and Lincolnshire, Farndon Marina offers a location in the East Midlands. The site enhances Tingdene Marinas’ geographic coverage and provides new connections within its network of inland and coastal marinas.
Previously owned and operated by the Ainsworth family for nearly six decades, the marina includes a range of facilities such as secure parking, modern washrooms, fuel and pump-out services, chandlery, boat maintenance, a slipway and an on-site restaurant.
Before the acquisition, recent investments were made at the site to improve operations and infrastructure. Enhancements included upgrades in site security and the introduction of new technology. Additional developments covered the amenity buildings including workshops, visitor facilities and office space. New pontoon walkways were also installed during the marketing process.
Paul Ainsworth, who has managed the site for the past 16 years, said, “This has been more than just a business – it’s been part of our family’s identity for decades. I am delighted to hand over the helm to another family-owned group that shares our passion for the waterways and our dedication to serving the boating community. I’d like to thank everyone who has supported us over the years and look forward to seeing Farndon Marina thrive as part of the Tingdene Marinas network.”
The acquisition is part of Tingdene Group’s broader strategy to extend its national presence. Ian Collier, Managing Director of Tingdene Group, stated, “Farndon Marina is a strong strategic fit for our group, enhancing both our geographic reach and our customer offer. We are delighted to add such a well-regarded and well-established marina to our portfolio and look forward to working with the team on site to support berth holders and develop the marina further.”
Jon Patrick, Head of Leisure & Development at Christie & Co, who handled the sale, noted, “Farndon Marina attracted a wide range of interest from inland marina operators, as well as holiday park operators and investors, resulting in a competitive bidding process for the business. Paul and Janet were well prepared ahead of coming to market which, together with the marketing strategy we adopted, helped to deliver a sale of the business from launch to completion in a little over four months – a very short timeframe in our experience of handling operational real estate transactions.”
Ethan Zone, Strategy Director for Tingdene Group, added: “We would like to thank Paul Ainsworth for his work and support through the transaction and for trusting us with the marina that has been in his family for generations. The acquisition of Farndon Marina marks a strategic step north in our expansion programme, providing a valuable foothold in the East Midlands. We continue to expand our marine portfolio across the UK, adopting our long-term value and investment principles.”
Tingdene Group received legal due diligence support from Shoosmiths LLP and tax due diligence from Mercer & Hole. Paul Ainsworth was advised by Browne Jacobson on legal matters and by Xeinadin for corporate finance, while the sale and marketing process was handled by Christie & Co.
