Best Day Ever Venues has completed a multi‑million pound deal to acquire the iconic Bestwood Pumping Station in Arnold, Nottinghamshire, marking the beginning of an investment to transform one of the region’s most iconic heritage buildings into a world‑class wedding venue.
The Grade II* listed site, formerly operated as Lakeside Nottingham, will reopen as Hawksley Tower, named in tribute to the celebrated Victorian civil engineer Thomas Hawksley, who designed and built the structure in 1873.
With plans to open from summer 2027, the project represents a significant step for Best Day Ever Venues as it continues to grow its portfolio of distinctive heritage venues, including its second Nottinghamshire location, following the launch of Whistle Barns around 12 months ago on the Nottinghamshire/Derbyshire border.
A landmark with national significance
Set within nearly six acres of parkland in a Grade II Registered Park and Garden, and featuring a Grade II listed ornamental lake, the site is widely regarded as one of the most architecturally extraordinary buildings in the East Midlands. Its Gothic revival style, Venetian‑inspired tower and grand hall make it a standout location for future weddings and events.
“We have been aware of this building for some time, and we are in no doubt about what it means to this community. It is a building of national significance, and we intend to be custodians worthy of that.”
Ben Reeves Managing Director, Ensarb
A complex deal behind the scenes
While the vision for Hawksley Tower is clear, the acquisition itself was far from straightforward. The transaction involved multiple interested parties and required specialist legal expertise across several disciplines.
Knights advised Ensarb Estates throughout the process, with the team led by Partner James Lunt and supported by Elin Davies, alongside insolvency specialists Jonathan Moor and Andrew Carser, and Jeremy Steele. David Roberts and Amy Kelly are continuing to advise on premises licensing.
““This was a complex transaction involving multiple interested parties. James and the team at Knights did an excellent job navigating the process... their proactive approach, responsiveness and ability to keep all parties moving forward were instrumental in getting the deal over the line.””
Ben Reeves Managing Director, Ensarb
The work covered the full acquisition process, including due diligence and contract negotiation, with the added complexity of acquiring a unique Grade II* listed building with associated listed land and features.
James Lunt, Partner at Knights, added:
“We’re delighted to have assisted Ensarb Estates with the acquisition of this unique property to add to its portfolio of Best Day Ever Venues. It was a pleasure to work with Ben and Sarah on this acquisition. We wish them every success and that many get to enjoy their special day at this fantastic new venue.”
Careful restoration and collaboration
Best Day Ever Venues has built a strong reputation for restoring historic properties with care and sensitivity, and Hawksley Tower will be no exception. The group has already appointed CTD Architects as specialist heritage advisors and is preparing a pre‑application submission to Gedling Borough Council.
The intention is to work closely with the Council, Historic England and other stakeholders to ensure a sensitive and sustainable restoration.
Ben Reeves added:
“This incredible building has waited long enough to be given a new lease of life. We want to do it right, and that means working openly and transparently with Gedling Borough Council, Historic England, and everyone who cares about this site.”
Looking ahead
Once complete, Hawksley Tower will become a flagship venue within the Best Day Ever portfolio, combining historic character with exceptional hospitality to create memorable wedding experiences.
The project is ultimately about bringing a building of national importance back into use and securing its future for generations to come.