Michael Parkinson

Michael is a Manchester-based senior associate specialising in commercial real estate. He acts for a broad range of clients, including hostels, hotels, and travel industry operators. Over the past three years, Michael has advised on the disposal of more than 30 hostels for a major national operator.

Michael has worked with YHA (England & Wales) since 2017, providing ongoing strategic advice through a significant property disposal programme and operational restructuring. This has included the sale of over 30 hostels – from remote heritage sites to high-value city-centre properties – to buyers including Network Rail, Kabannas, and A&O Hostels. Michael also supported YHA in repurposing circa 20 hostels during the pandemic, regularly navigating complexities such as title defects, overage provisions, option agreements, and TOGC arrangements.

Clients value working with Michael for his clear, commercial advice and personable approach. Recognised as a safe pair of hands, he is transparent about costs, manages expectations effectively, and is tenacious in getting transactions over the line efficiently. Working closely with colleagues across corporate, banking, construction, and planning, Michael advises hostel owner-operators, manufacturers, developers, government bodies, banks, charities, multi-academy trusts, and retailers nationwide. He takes pride in being approachable and a trusted adviser throughout demanding transactions.