Register to get 3 free articles
Register to unlock the article and receive our free newsletter. Join 26,000 other hotel leaders and stay in the know.
Want unlimited access? View Plans
Already have an account? Sign in
Spot in the Woods, a boutique hotel in the heart of the New Forest, is under new management following its official reopening earlier this year.
Located in the Hampshire village of Woodlands, near Southampton, Spot in the Woods is part of the Hillbrooke Hotel collection and is now under the new management of general manager, Richard Slade, who has 12 years experience in the industry.
The hotel said his passion for high quality accommodation and good food has seen him work within some “iconic” UK hotels, including Warbrook House Hotel in Reading and Elmers Court Hotel and Resort in Lymington, where he served as operations manager and refined his ability to manage staff.
His most recent role as deputy general manager at The Museum Inn, in Farnham, is where amongst other managerial duties, he worked closely with the kitchen team to maintain its 2 rosette standard of cuisine.
In his new role, Slade will oversee the entirety of Spot in the Woods and “ensure it continues to position itself as one of Hampshire’s most reputable boutique hotels”.
Commenting on his new role, Slade said: “I want to make Spot in the Woods something truly memorable. We have such an amazing opportunity to be one of the best hotels in the area and I want us to be the first thought in anyone’s mind when they think of either staying or working within hospitality in the area.
“I have been given free rein to bring new ideas to the property and want to do something that will leave a lasting impression on anyone who visits – really bringing in the wow factor!”
He added: “One of my major plans is to form a great reputation within the region. We are very proud that our menu is almost all sourced within 21 miles, so why wouldn’t we want to expand this pride within the local community? Who doesn’t want an amazing venue that you can walk to without much hassle and enjoy amazing food and drink?
“Last year we built our shepherd huts, which are incredible and a really unique option when staying in the area. The list of opportunities at Spot in the Woods is endless and I can’t wait to get stuck in and try something new and different. If you don’t try and risk failure you won’t succeed.”
Paul Brown, managing director of Hillbrooke Hotels, said: “We are delighted to welcome Richard to the Hillbrooke family and are confident his exciting approach to hospitality will really resonate with guests, staff and the local community. Spot in the Woods is a unique location with endless opportunities — something I believe will really play in to the hands of its new GM.”
