We have provided multi-disciplinary advice to Metro Bank on a five-year £50m lending deal to support Darwin Leisure Development Fund (DLDF), which gives long-term investors access to a portfolio of luxury holiday and leisure parks across the UK.
Deal / 28 Aug 2025
Advising Metro Bank on a £50m lending deal with Darwin Leisure Development Fund
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The transaction represents a total of £50m refinancing, comprising a £10m revolving credit facility and a £40m term loan to allow DLDF to develop and expand its portfolio through flexible growth financing. The funding will allow DLDF to continue to expand and invest in its portfolio of lodge resorts across the UK.
Our team was led by real estate partner John Downs, supported by banking and finance partner Jacob Robinson and banking and finance senior associate Megan Kirby.
Gateley Legal’s multi-disciplinary offering and depth of resource is invaluable, particularly within a transaction like this one. Huge thanks to John, Jacob, Megan and many more for their detailed, calm and pragmatic approach which ultimately led to a first-class delivery.
John Downs added: “We’re pleased to have advised longstanding client Metro Bank on this significant lending deal, which demonstrates the continued positive momentum of the UK’s hotels and leisure market. This great result is testament to the collaborative efforts of our real estate and banking and finance teams, showcasing our expertise in providing full-service solutions to banks, investors and funders across the hotels and leisure sector, as well as wider commercial and residential investment and development transactions.”
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