Rothay Manor hotel appoints new head chef and restaurant manager

The Lake District’s boutique hotel Rothay Manor has announced two key appointments with the arrival of Michelin-star trained head chef, Aaron Lawrence, and award-winning restaurant manager Christopher McCaughran. Leading the new culinary chapter, Lawrence joins from the Samling Hotel, which welcomed a Michelin star and four AA Rosettes during his tenure as sous chef. Lawrence’s new evening à la carte menu champions regional artisans and the very best seasonal produce. Signature dishes include Pan Roasted Halibut with leeks, Garganelli pasta and mussels marinière. Alongside the menu, Rothay Manor has developed an extensive new wine list and cocktail menu designed to be enjoyed in the main restaurant, fireside in the Brathay Lounge and Drawing Room or on the outdoor terrace. Lawrence also will introduce a new all-day dining menu, afternoon tea and new room-service offering in an evolution of the hotel’s food experience for guests. Lawrence said: “Seasonality as is how it should be – we all change with the seasons and therefore crave seasonal produce. There’s nothing nicer than a sweet, ripe British tomato in early June, or the Lyth valley plums in September, and it's important that our guests are inspired by these seasonal ingredients too.” Starting his career at the 3 Michelin star Hotel Des Tours Lille France, McCaughran is joining Rothay Manor with a huge wealth of local knowledge, having previously held positions as operations manager at Holland Hall Hotel in Lancashire and F&B manager at the 5* Hotel Gotham in Manchester. The new team additions sit within the hotel’s senior team, including long-standing general manager Peter Sinclair, and coincide with the unveiling of a subtle redesign of the hotel’s dining spaces, creating a more relaxed dining experience. Jamie Shail, co-owner of Rothay Manor, said: “We’re thrilled to welcome Aaron and Chris to Rothay Manor, their arrival represents an exciting new chapter in our story. We’re confident their enthusiasm and experience will continue to deliver excellent, seasonal food and a brilliant atmosphere for which Rothay Manor is known for.”